Masafumi Gotoch, frontman of Japanese rock band Asian Kung-Fu Generation, has been tapped to narrate an episode of NHK's long-running documentary series "Document 72 Hours." The special, titled "Shibuya's 'Music Tower' — Everyone's Playlist," will air May 22 on NHK General TV at 10 p.m.

The episode focuses on Tower Records' Shibuya location, a sprawling retail institution housing approximately 800,000 CDs and records. The documentary observes visitors over a 72-hour period, exploring why people continue visiting physical record stores in an era dominated by streaming services. It's a fitting subject for Gotoh, who is known to be an avid collector of CDs and vinyl records.

Gotoh brings more than just musical credibility to the role. Beyond his work as the vocalist and guitarist for Asian Kung-Fu Generation — the influential band behind the 2004 hit "Rewrite" — he maintains an active solo career under the name Gotch, produces music for other artists, and has published several books. Most recently, he founded the nonprofit organization "Apple Vinegar Music Support Organization," which is opening a music studio called "MUSIC inn Fujieda" in Shizuoka Prefecture this spring.

To complement the episode, NHK is programming a week-long series titled "Document 72 Hours × MUSIC," featuring past music-related episodes. The lineup includes reruns of documentaries on Fuji Rock Festival (May 19), vintage enka music (May 20), and a music studio in Tokyo's Shinjuku district (May 21). Additionally, Naoh Matsuzaki, who sings the show's theme song, will appear on NHK's music program "Uta Con" on May 19.

The special marks another high-profile appearance for the band, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024 and continues to remain active in Japan's music scene.