Interview with Morning Musume。

Since their formation in 1997, successful all-female pop and dance group Morning Musume。 have seen continuous line-up changes with older members graduating and new members joining on a regular basis. This year, the idol group will bid farewell to sixth generation member Sayumi Michishige. JaME speaks to Sayumi Michishige and Erina Ikuta after their overseas gig in New York.

The NYC show was your last overseas gig with Morning Musume。 - how’re you feeling about that?

Sayumi Michishige: It's hard to think about things like "final" or "forever". We just focus on giving the best show that we can each time, and each time you see us, it's going to be different. Dancing has become a big part of our live shows, and we wanted everyone to feel the energy from our new style of performance.

For you, what has been the best thing about being a member of Morning Musume。?

Sayumi Michishige: The fans always make the difference for me. They can be the difference between having a "down" day or an "up" day. They can really lift my mood so quickly.

Erina Ikuta: The support of the other members is always so strong. When I was having a hard time with a dance, Risa Niigaki, a fifth generation member, said to me "I will teach you the dance." This showed me that someone is watching over me, and it made me cry.

What are your plans for after you graduate from Morning Musume。?

Sayumi Michishige: My mind is just focused on my activities with Morning Musume。 right now. I want to make the most of every moment.

What are your hopes for Morning Musume。's future?

Erina Ikuta: Because the senior members have worked so hard, the name Morning Musume。 has become well-known everywhere. I would like to try just as hard so future members will say "The senior members of '14 have created even more fame for Morning Musume。—let's do our best and make it even better!”

Do you have a message for your fans?

Sayumi Michishige: New York had always been a dream. It seemed far away, but we made it a reality. Together, let's keep giving it all we've got and make more cherished memories!

Erina Ikuta: I've yearned to perform overseas, and was so happy to finally go there. And I feel that I was blessed just to be able to perform live in New York. We were really happy to say "Thank you." in person to our fans. We'll work hard so we can come see you every year!

JaME would like to thank Morning Musume。 for this interview.