With the release of Babymetal’s newest song “Starlight,” the pop-metal act has also informed fans that Yuimetal is no longer a part of the group. Yui has penned a note to her fans, seemingly hinting at a solo career as Mizuno Yui.

Earlier today, Babymetal posted an announcement on Yuimetal’s departure. “Yuimetal had expressed her desire to return performing with the group in the following months after last December’s performance due health concerns. During her absence, both Su-metal and Moametal as well as the entire staff team had been preparing for her awaited return. However, Yuimetal came to a decision that she will not be performing at Babymetal World Tour 2018 in Japan and that she will no longer be a part of Babymetal. We thank her for all of her contributions and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”

The statement continues, “This month’s Babymetal World Tour 2018 in Japan will mark the rebirth in which Su-metal and Moametal form the core of Babymetal. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the fans for the continued support and look forward in what’s next for Babymetal.”

Separately, Yui wrote her own note explaining the decision to leave:

To all the fans,

I am truly sorry for the inconvenience I have caused so many people due to being absent for an extended period of time. I have mulled over this over and over again but, I have decided to leave Babymetal at this time.

I feel very sorry that my decision will disturb the other members and some many fans who have supported Babymetal. I am further terribly sorry to sadden the fans who have supported Babymetal. I had the strong desire to appear on stage again but my physical condition is not at its best even now, and further I feel that I would like to pursue my dream, one that I have had from a long time ago, of going on my own as Mizuno Yui. It is these factors that led to my decision.

I am thankful for the numerous and precious experiences I was able to have being a part of Babymetal. I always felt day to day that I was truly blessed. The live shows where we all smiled together and became as One were truly happy and enjoyable times. I will do my utmost best to be able to again one day meet all of you as Mizuno Yui.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the last 8 years.

Mizuno Yui

As the new core of Babymetal, Su-metal and Moametal take center stage on “Starlight,” which is pure kawaii metal bliss. Babymetal will return to performing later this month in Japan before heading to Singapore and Australia before 2018 is finished.

Watch the music video for “Starlight” above and stay tuned for future updates on Babymetal and Mizuno Yui as news breaks.

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