Interview 1: Talking about when she
joined Sakurazaka46. A full interview going from her memories of
the auditions to the bonds created among the new members.
45,000 people wanted to be members of Sakurazaka46. Murayama Miu made it through, and now takes the stage in andGIRL. She stands before the camera with a powerful gaze and a presence you wouldn't expect in someone who has just made her debut.
Polka-dot dress ¥25,300/Jusglitty - earring ¥5,670/Abiste - mules ¥15,400/Diana
Talking about the Sakurazaka46 Audition
“I thought I’d try the Sakurazaka46 new member audition.
Really, my feeling was just that I’d take the challenge and see how it went.
“Up to then, I’d been supporting Sakurazaka46 at home with my family. When I saw the announcement of the call for new members, it got me more excited than I had ever been.
“To become a member of the idol group I loved was something I’d never dreamed of. When the judging started, it was obvious that the candidates were on another level: all of them were cute and could dance and sing well.
“During the announcement of who had qualified, the five or so before me were all chosen, and just as I was thinking ‘Oh, well, I guess that’s it…’, they called ‘Number 14’. Still only half believing it, I climbed up on stage.
“That day, Mother rushed in from Osaka as a surprise. Unforgettable memories.
“Here in the world-line where my dream has come true, I want to become someone who shines, while still staying myself.
“After I became a member, in the training period, I was so desperate
in the lessons, at a peak of tension the whole time. The third-generation
members were always together, but when I was with the seniors, I still had not
got beyond being a fan. When I was with the seniors, time and again my
heart beat faster, thinking: 'Our eyes are meeting ♡'
“The feeling of the group is always bright and happy. My bonds with members of the same generation are unshakable, and the seniors talk to us a lot, giving advice about performance. Really, they’re all so nice. I can talk easily and happily with Masumoto Kira, who has long been my oshi. It’s like a dream.
“I want to keep polishing my performance, with a disciplined attitude, so as not to shame the name of Sakurazaka46. Please wish me well.”
____________________________________
Interview 2: Nine questions about fashion and about Miu herself, her style motto and her charm point.
overall ¥20,900/Jusglitty — frilly blouse ¥10,890/Coco Deal — ear cuff ¥23,100/Cocoshnik — ring ¥4,950/Cocoshnik Onkitsch — pumps ¥16,500/Diana [I couldn’t find the solid cuff ring we have noticed previously, but this one comes close: ]
Q1. What fashion brands do you like?
A. STYLEMIXER and UNITED TOKYO
I like simple, stylish clothes, and have found them at these two brands. Actually, my mother loves fashion and has taken the qualification to be a stylist. So when I’m buying new clothes, I ask her advice.
Q2. What kind of fashion do you usually get?
A. Mainly monotone.
Basically, my coordinates are all black. My closet looks totally black. I like long pants and skirts. Things that don’t show my feet.
Q3. When you’re shopping are you a quick decider or a careful thinker?
A. Quick decider!
It’s just one look, unless the price is too high.
Q4. When you’re doing your own make-up, what do you concentrate on?
A. Eyelashes!
I spend time with a hot eyelash-curler to make the lashes turn up from the roots, then apply mascara delicately to make my eyes seem very open. I’m with those who avoid getting any on the cheek. I apply enough foundation to prevent tanning. For lips I like matte brown.
Q5. Do you have any special skills?
A. I can make the bones in my neck crack.
(She demonstrates.) Like this. They really crack loudly!
Q6. What are your morning and evening routines?
A. I’m really busy both morning and evening.
When I wake up, I drink half a 500ml bottle of water right away. I wash my face and then use a face massager, and I learned from Nagi to rotate my shoulders for 30 seconds. At night I do stretches and strength training from a teacher on the internet. And to get rid of puffiness, massage in the bath is a must.
Q7. What do you work at to become more beautiful?
A. I like to eat vegetables ♡
I basically like vegetables more than either fish or meat. When I find a place that specializes in salads, it sucks me right in. The vegetables I like are sweet potatoes, red peppers, and green peppers. It’s not for beauty, just because I like eating them. But the reason I have no skin problems is vegetables.
Q8. What, exactly, is your charm point.
A. My long hands.
This is what I get praised for. I’ve come to think this must be my charm point. People like my neat nails, too, I think.
Q9. What is the thing you want most right now?
A. A small summer bag. For day trips, I’d like a shoulder bag with a silhouette resembling a suitcase. I think dark brown leather would be nice. When I walk around with maybe just my wallet and glasses, something quite tiny would be good.
Profile
Murayama Miu 村山美羽. From Tokyo. Blood type O.
Third-generation member of Sakurazaka46. Tallest in her generation, at 68cm.
Talked about as the the beauty of the group. Favourite colours blue and black.
Favorite foods taro, sweet plums, sweet dumplings. Hobby: drawing pictures.
Interviews posted online 2023.09.03
