On January 8th, Morning Musume held a release event for their new single, "Help me!!", at Tower Records Store in Shibuya.

Although this is 11th generation member Oda Sakura's first single as Morning Musume, she has already challenged herself to taking on a solo part. "I will do my best to be able to use what I've been given," she said. In response, Tanaka Reina stated, "She joined as a singer, so I'm looking forward to it."

During the event, the girls wrote and shared their ambitions for this year. Michishige Sayumi wrote the character for "up" and revealed, "After new members joined, I feel their young power. I want to always be at the top." Meanwhile, Oda wrote "move forward with all my strength".

On this day, Morning Musume performed 3 songs, "Renai Hunter", "Daite HOLD ON ME!", and "Help me!!". This event also kicked off their 47-Prefecture campaign to promote their new single which will be released on January 23rd.

Member Sato Masaki was absent from the event as she has been undergoing medical treatment since December 30th.

[gallery link="file"]

Source & Photos: Oricon
Thanks to Chimai for the tip!