This spring, NTV is adding to its lineup a program called "The M," which will be the network's first prime time music performance show in 18 years. It originally aired as a late night special on January 2, and its 7.2% ratings suggested that it might succeed as a regular show.

Targeting viewers in their 30s, "The M" will be hosted by two artists who gained popularity in the '90s: Tatsuya Ishii, who made his debut as the vocalist of Kome Kome Club, and actress Noriko Sakai, whose biggest hit was "Aoi Usagi." Comedian Hitori Gekidan will be their co-host.

While other music performance shows generally include a short talk segment with the guest artists before they perform, "The M" promises to present a more human side of the artists, illustrating the course of their careers from their debut to the present.

"The M" will air on Tuesdays at 9:00pm, starting on April 22.