Yasushi Akimoto’s New Idol Group FINALIST Launches 1st Mini-Album to Great Success
On July 25, the idol groups WHITE SCORPION and its sister group FINALIST, both produced by Yasushi Akimoto, held an in-store event in Yokohama to commemorate the release of their 1st mini-album “Title Undecided,” set for September 11.
FINALIST is a group formed from the 17 members who unfortunately did not make it in the IDOL 3.0 PROJECT, and they are energetically working towards their debut every day.
The event on the 25th featured a rich program including a mini-talk show and a handshake event. A two-shot photo session was also held, with members enjoying interaction with fans and the venue becoming very lively.
During the mini-talk show, when asked, “If you were to perform as the center, what kind of song would you choose?” member Chai (22) responded, “I would like to try performing cool songs like ‘Glass wo Ware!’ and ‘Fukyouwaon’ by Keyakizaka46.”
Nii (23) also answered, “I would like to try a song like ‘Fukyouwaon’ by Keyakizaka46, where everyone, including the audience, can get intensely excited together.” Meanwhile, Macaron (18) replied, “I would like to try a song with a dramatic part like ‘Sekai ni wa Ai Shika Nai’ by Keyakizaka46, which includes dialogue.”
After the event, which concluded with great success, Lee (19) was asked for a comment:
“Participating in my first in-store event, I felt closer to everyone than I had imagined when I stood on stage, and I was more nervous than usual! It was amazing to be able to hear everyone’s questions so clearly and to answer them in such a homey atmosphere. I was also very happy to stand on stage with some members of WHITE SCORPION!
Being part of this mini-album and participating in this event has made me feel truly grateful for the support of everyone, even before our debut. I am deeply touched by everyone’s kindness and support. I want to cherish this feeling, refine my skills, and keep working hard!”
She spoke passionately.
The 1st mini-album includes FINALIST’s first original song. The future of this new era idol group, launched by Yasushi Akimoto, is definitely worth watching.
