Riho Sayashi Reflects on Her Evolution From Morning Musume Idol to TV Star and Major-Label Artist

Japanese multi-hyphenate artist Riho Sayashi recently reflected on her winding entertainment career in an interview as part of Billboard Japan's Women in Music series. Rising to prominence as the designated "ace" of the long-running girl group Morning Musume after joining at age 12, Sayashi ultimately stepped away from idol stardom at 17. She subsequently relocated to New York before eventually relaunching her solo career on an independent label and making her major-label debut with avex in 2025.

For fans following her journey, Sayashi’s transition offers a compelling look at perseverance and creative control in the entertainment industry. Now balancing a nationwide tour, music releases, and her current co-starring role in the television drama Tsukiatte Agetemo Iikana—for which she also performs the ending theme—the artist emphasizes the importance of avoiding burnout by pacing herself and ensuring her personal vision remains at the core of every song.

Reflecting on her early years performing at major venues like the Nippon Budokan as a junior high schooler, Sayashi admitted she initially felt the crushing weight of high expectations entirely on her own. However, looking back with maturity, she acknowledges the vital support of her former group members and crew. By taking control of her artistic direction and building her career step-by-step, she has successfully bridged her past as a teen pop icon with her current status as a mature singer and actor.