Idols also have trends. If the 20th century was the era of solo idols like Seiko Matsuda, Akina Nakamori, and Kyoko Koizumi, this century can be said to be the era of group idols. In this era, 18-year-old Ayami Muto is striving to reach the pinnacle of the idol world all by herself.

Watching her live performance, one senses the very definition of captivating. The energy emanating from her petite 149cm frame is immeasurable. "I love live performances. I love singing," Muto says with a smile, and there's a sincerity in her eyes. Muto, who was recently transformed into a fashionable, doll-like woman for Isetan's seasonal visual last spring, is a new muse, drawing keen attention from the fashion world, with her live costumes designed by stylist Tetsuro Nagase. What does this orthodox idol think now? ■ Aiming for the Top of the Idol World as a Solo Artist

At the same time as graduating from junior high school, Muto also graduated from the idol group Sakura Gakuin, where she had been a member for two years as its first student council president, at the age of 15. After a year and four months of preparation, she made her solo debut. For idols, 16 is a precious time when they exude an ambiguous charm that is neither girl nor adult. Nevertheless, Muto devoted that year to preparing for her solo idol career. She chose to take voice lessons, dance, Japanese dance, and go to the gym, fully training herself to stand on stage under the gaze of an enthusiastic audience. This shows Muto's determination. When asked if she felt any pressure performing alone, she answered without hesitation, "It feels good. Everyone in the venue is looking at me. It makes me feel excited." She seemed to enjoy the sensation of being treated to a full-body response. "I'm the only one on stage. It's delicious," she said with a smile. Even in live performances, where a singer's skill is clearly revealed, Muto's singing is full of expression. He speaks through his songs as if he is having so much fun being there. "At live performances, I want to give it my all on stage, giving it all I have at the time. I want to keep improving my 'goodness' every time."

Continued on 2/2.