Statistics
 

Kouhaku viewership ratings are out:
http://i.imgur.com/VRmF2lOl.png
Source: Video Research, Ltd.

I have highlighted what you want to look at. The column is for the Kanto (関東) region. They are on par with the previous years, but slightly lower than in 2013.

First half: 35.1%
Second half: 42.2%

Top individual ratings (Kanto):

1. Matsuda Seiko: 47.5%
2. Arashi: 46.3%
3. SMAP: 46.1%
4. Southern All Stars: 46.0%
5. Sayaka and Idina: 45.5%
6. Nakajima Miyuki: 44.3%

Top individual ratings (Kansai):

1. Matsuda Seiko: 50.1%
2. Arashi: 48.4%
3. Southern All Stars: 47.7%
4. Miwa Akihiro: 45.9%
5. May J.: 45.4%
6. Nakajima Miyuki: 44.9%
7. Nakamori Akina: 44.7%
8. SMAP: 44.6%
9. Shiina Ringo: 44.4%
10. TOKIO: 43.9%

etc.

Lower than even 2012... Hmm...any reasons?