Former Morning Musume member Sayaka Ichii submits application to join AKB48

It was revealed on Sayaka Ichii’s personal blog that she has thrown her hat in the ring for an opportunity to join AKB48.

Sayaka Ichii [市井 紗耶香] born December 31, 1983 in Funabashi, Chiba, is a Japanese pop singer and former member of Japanese girl group Morning Musume. Ichii joined the Morning Musume in 1998 and along with Mari Yaguchi and Kei Yasuda, formed the second generation of members. Ichii graduated from Morning Musume and Hello! Project brand after the single “Happy Summer Wedding” released in 2000.

Last month AKB48 announced their role in the Papiko 2014 Spring Campaign [パピコ2014­春キャンペーン] which looks to find a new member of AKB48 aged 30 or over in order to emphasize the product lines appeal to the adult crowd. In her blog Ichii shared “I am excited to have the chance to apply” she continues “I will do my absolute best to win this audition!”

Eligibility is open to both amateurs and professionals along with the married or unmarried, however, it is strictly limited to those 30 years of age and over. Applications are being accepted now and the chosen winner will serve as lead to the Glico Commercial campaign, be expected to appear at Tokyo Park for the campaign daily, participate in theater performances, handshake meetings, and AKB48 concerts. It’ll be a Cinderella story that won’t last long however as the member will be expected to graduate the group when the promotion ends in late August.

Other noteworthy applicants include Atsuko Maeda impersonator Kintaro and comedian Kaoru Yahata.

Source: Yahoo Japan