Relay (song)

"Relay" is a song by Japanese rock band Bump of Chicken. It was released as a digital single on November 22, 2023.

The song was written and composed by Motoo Fujiwara, the band's vocalist and guitarist. "Relay" was specifically created as the theme song for the 76th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, a prestigious annual New Year's Eve television special broadcast by NHK. The theme of the 76th Kōhaku Uta Gassen was "Borderless - Songs Cross Beyond."

The lyrics of "Relay" are said to reflect themes of connection, hope, and perseverance, aligning with the "Borderless" theme of the Kōhaku Uta Gassen. The song emphasizes the passing of traditions and aspirations from one generation to the next, as well as the power of music to unite people. The band performed "Relay" live at the Kōhaku Uta Gassen on December 31, 2023. The song's release was highly anticipated, given Bump of Chicken's popularity and their prior participation in the event.