G-Dragon’s Triumphant Return at the 2024 MAMA Awards
On the afternoon of November 23, 2024, fans gathered at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka for the much-anticipated ‘2024 MAMA AWARDS JAPAN.’ This event marked a significant moment in K-pop history as G-Dragon made his much-awaited return to the stage after a nine-year hiatus since his last performance at the MAMA Awards in 2015.
As excitement filled the arena, host Kim Tae-ri energized the crowd by announcing, “I’ve been waiting for this moment as well! Are you all ready to dive into the performance?” This call-to-action set the stage for G-Dragon’s stunning solo act, captivating fans and newcomers alike.
THE KING, G-DRAGON COMES BACK ON MAMA STAGE IN 2024RETURN OF THE KINGS #GDRAGONisBACK #GDRAGONxMAMA2024 #BIGBANGxMAMA2024 pic.twitter.com/4kYncRaPba
— G-DRAGON INTERNATIONAL (@gdragonintl) November 23, 2024
Crowd Engagement and Performance Highlights
Throughout G-Dragon’s performance, junior artists including SEVENTEEN, ZEROBASEONE, aespa, and MEOVV were seen cheering enthusiastically for him. Even after G-Dragon exited the stage, fans erupted into chants of “BIGBANG! BIGBANG!” demanding an encore. Kim Tae-ri, seen with her lightstick, shared a smile that turned shy when the camera caught her moment of excitement.
But the BIGBANG experience didn’t stop there. After changing outfits, the group performed an energetic medley of hits, including “BANG BANG BANG” and “FANTASTIC BABY.” Their electrifying performance was met with rapturous applause from both fans and fellow artists present.
This comeback holds particular importance for BIGBANG as it symbolized the first full-group performance in nine years. Prior to this event, the trio had delighted fans at Taeyang’s solo concert in September, heightening anticipation for their reunion at the MAMA Awards.
G-dragon together with Taeyang and Daesung performs at MAMA 2024BIGBANG 😭 every one in the audience was shocked seeing all 3 members pic.twitter.com/NoLfMzYcCe
— ✩*.゚𝒌𝒊𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒚 ⋰˚☆ (@kimreyes) November 23, 2024
Chart-Topping Success of “HOME SWEET HOME”
The excitement surrounding G-Dragon’s performance was echoed by the swift success of his new single, “HOME SWEET HOME.” Within an hour after its release, the song soared to third place on Melon TOP100, quickly securing the top spot on Melon HOT100. It also topped Vibe’s domestic rising chart and reached first on the real-time chart of Bugs, demonstrating its powerful impact on the Korean music scene.
Internationally, “HOME SWEET HOME” made significant waves, clinching the number one spot on the iTunes charts in Finland, Kyrgyzstan, and Norway shortly after its debut. The track also ranked within the top ten of nine countries, including notable markets such as Hong Kong, the UAE, and Spain, underscoring BIGBANG’s enduring global appeal.
In China, “HOME SWEET HOME” attracted over 58,000 concurrent listeners on QQ Music, reaching the top of their real-time charts by 8 PM on release day, alongside topping various other critical music charts. This was a clear indication of the track’s widespread acclaim within the Greater China sector.
Emotional Resonance and Future Prospects
The title track carries a heartfelt message about returning to the embrace of fans, encapsulating the idea that BIGBANG has always remained close to their supporters. Lines from the song such as “Sing an old song again after a long time” and “HOME SWEET HOME HOME SICK HOME” evoke a strong emotional connection, resonating deeply with listeners. Notably, the phrase “It’s about time to ‘ROCK-ON’” marks not just a nostalgic moment, but also sets the stage for G-Dragon’s upcoming ventures.
As the dust settles and fans reflect on this monumental evening, there is much anticipation surrounding whether BIGBANG’s full group activities will extend beyond the 2024 MAMA Awards, sparking hope for future performances and projects.
Leave a Reply