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| Murai Yuu Takes the Spotlight in Sakurazaka46’s 13th Single – Lineup and Release Date Revealed! |
Sakurazaka46 has finally lifted the curtain on the senbatsu formation for their upcoming 13th single, ‘Unhappy Birthday Koubun’, announced live during TV Tokyo’s “Soko Magattara, Sakurazaka?” on October 5, 2025.
For the very first time, Murai Yuu, a 21-year-old third-generation member, steps into the spotlight as the centre of the title track.
The Tokyo-born performer joined the group in January 2023 and has been steadily gaining attention for her sharp dance skills and easy-going charm.
Murai Yu’s Moment to Shine
In her first public comment as centre, Murai Yuu spoke with heartfelt honesty — “I’d say I’ve already made up my mind. Of course, there’s some anxiety, but my desire for more people to see the Sakurazaka I love through this 13th single is much stronger. Together with everyone, I want to show a new, captivating side of us that you just can’t take your eyes off. So yes, I’m truly prepared for what’s ahead.”
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Known for her sporty background — basketball in junior high, dance club in high school — Murai Yu embodies the blend of grit and elegance that fans love.
Her appointment as centre signals a fresh energy for the group’s ongoing evolution.
Senbatsu Formation Breakdown
Here’s how the formation looks for ‘Unhappy Birthday Kōbun’:
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Front Row (1st Line): Murai Yuu (Centre), Yamashita Shizuki, Moriya Rena
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Second Row: Matono Mio, Fujiyoshi Karin, Morita Hikaru, Tamura Hono, Yamasaki Ten
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Third Row: Endo Riko, Matsuda Rina, Ozono Rei, Murayama Miwa, Ishimori Rika, Mukai Junna
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It’s a strong lineup that blends veteran charm with third-gen freshness, with familiar faces like Yamasaki Ten and Tamura Hono adding balance and power to the stage.
‘Unhappy Birthday Koubun’ will officially drop on October 29, 2025, and fans won’t have to wait long to see it live — Sakurazaka46 will perform it for the very first time at “TBS CDTV LIVE! LIVE! Dance SP” on October 20 at 19:00 JST.
The jacket artwork was also unveiled today, featuring a soft, melancholic pastel aesthetic that perfectly fits the title’s bittersweet vibe.
And with Murai Yuu at the centre, fans are buzzing that this single might mark the start of a new era for Sakurazaka46 — one that’s bold, emotional, and just a little bit unpredictable.