SM Entertainment celebrated its 30th anniversary with 'SM CLASSICS LIVE 2025' in Tokyo, blending K-POP with classical music.
September/16/2025 20:34Related Groups & Members
A special performance commemorating the 30th anniversary of SM Entertainment (hereafter, SM), 'SM CLASSICS LIVE 2025 in TOKYO,' was held at Tokyo International Forum Hall A. 'SM Classics' is a classical & jazz label that started in 2020, reinterpreting famous K-POP songs with orchestral and classical arrangements to deliver new charm. This stage provided a special time to experience the grand sound of a full orchestra reflecting the 30 years of music history and legacy that SM has walked. Conducted by Hideaki Matsumura, the New Japan Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra created an overwhelming musical space. Additionally, SUPER JUNIOR's Leeteuk served as the moderator, introducing the background and stories of the songs in a friendly manner, adding warmth to the entire stage for the audience, even those experiencing a classical concert for the first time. Furthermore, SUPER JUNIOR's Ryeowook appeared as a guest vocalist, performing orchestral arrangements of 'The Little Prince' and 'It's okay,' captivating the audience with his delicate yet powerful singing voice. This concert created new sounds through the fusion of representative SM songs with classical works. EXO's 'Growl' incorporated elements of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 'Fate,' reconstructing the original rhythm with classical variations. TVXQ's 'Rising Sun' fused with Vivaldi's 'Summer' from 'The Four Seasons,' expressing a sense of speed and dramatic development. Red Velvet's 'Feel My Rhythm' quoted Bach's 'Air on the G String,' showcasing a splendid fusion of classical and pop. Girls' Generation's 'Into The New World' incorporated Elgar's 'Pomp and Circumstance,' delivering a grand arrangement that paid homage to the group's history. Other performances included BoA's 'Tree,' aespa's 'Black Mamba,' NCT U's 'Make A Wish (Birthday Song),' and SHINee's 'Sherlock (Clue + Note),' resulting in a stage where diverse classical elements and K-POP fused together. The 'SM CLASSICS LIVE,' held for the first time in Japan, became a memorable performance where SM's musical heritage could be experienced in a new form, marking a fitting celebration of the 30th anniversary.
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