JPHiP Forum

The PIEHOLE => H!P News and Releases => Topic started by: Slack on October 24, 2011, 11:27:06 PM

Title: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Slack on October 24, 2011, 11:27:06 PM

Quote from: Slack on October 24, 2011, 09:28:28 PM

(http://i.imgur.com/HsExP.jpg)   (http://i.imgur.com/vAKWa.jpg)   (http://i.imgur.com/udvP1.jpg)

The three newspaper articles above say that Maeda Yuuka will retire from S/mileage on 12/31 to devote herself to college entrance exams.
The official announcement.
http://s-mileage.jp/info/3298 (http://s-mileage.jp/info/3298)

Hello! Project official site announcement:
http://www.helloproject.com/news/111025600_smileage.html (http://www.helloproject.com/news/111025600_smileage.html)

Quote from: Takamaruyo.net translation (http://www.takamaruyo.net/?p=1115)

Comment from Maeda Yuuka

Thank you for always supporting me.

I, Maeda Yuuka, as of 2011/12/31, will be graduating from Smileage and Hello! Project.

Just the other day at our event, the 4 sub members became official members which made me really happy, but at the same time made me realize that it was this timing that I had to use to tell you all something very important.

Since becoming a high school student, I have been unable to keep up with my Smileage work and school at the same time and it has bothered me a great deal. I started to think about my future and realized that my desire to attend a university had grown a lot over time. I was wondering if, at this rate, if I would be able to handle both school work and Smileage, I was really only able to give a half-hearted effort on both things… and was always getting help from other people, and I really disliked that part about me. I thought to myself “Things aren’t going to work out if it keeps going like this”.

I need to work a lot harder if I want to attend a university. But that had always been just talk, up til now nothing had really changed…

If I let these feelings continue, it would not be appropriate to the other members, nor to all the fans that support me.

I thought a lot about it. I may not be very bright but I put all my energy into thinking about this… and came up with this as the only possible option.

As of now with the four new members joining, it has been a joy to spend every day with the members. To the original members, to the new members, and to all of you who have always supported me, I am very very grateful.

Although it may be sad, we have a new single featuring the 7 of us coming out on 12/28, and I will be working my hardest ever to make this the best one yet!

I am very grateful to so many people, and hope to really enjoy these remaining 2 months, and finish with a smile in the Smileage way!

Please continue to support the Smileage from here on after.

2011-10-25
Smileage Maeda Yuuka

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: mode107 on October 24, 2011, 11:42:17 PM

Farnsworth has had enough. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhnN54tHjkI#ws)
Just glad I've got to know her for the majority of my H!P fandom.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Slack on October 24, 2011, 11:59:54 PM

Maybe that sad look she always had on TV wasn't just a look...

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Meania on October 25, 2011, 01:28:25 AM

Wow... ;  n ; the S/mileage I grew to know and love really is over. Of course I'm not saying I no longer like them, just, half the original line up gone and 4 new girls worked in- I can't help but miss the original line up that worked so well and was so balanced.
It was fun while it lasted. :c

Good luck to Maeda with her studies, I hope S/mileage won't suffer too much with her gone too!

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: oaxiac on October 25, 2011, 02:19:21 AM

Wow...bummer :( I was really rooting for them to break out earlier this year. 

I guess she looked lonelier than usual but I've always heard fans say that it's just her personality.

Well, I don't really what to say anymore.    :(

Good Luck Yuuka! 

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: J-Triumf on October 25, 2011, 03:35:45 AM

(http://picroda.jphip.com/misc/jphip00370.jpeg)

So now that's two H!P groups that are having my favorite member leave this year! :panic: :panic: :panic: Who will fulfill the role of Big Pun-isher in the S/mileage Terror Squad now? :(

The moves made with the new members once again have a lot more weight to them: the audition announcement and finalization were followed up by Saki leaving...now having all 4 submembers upgrade to main roster status gets followed up by Yuuka leaving. You guys already know what two words I have to say about all this...

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip08214.jpg)

I hope these last two months are awesome for her!

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: JFC on October 25, 2011, 05:14:22 AM

Now there are 2 empty spotlights for High-King. :(

During TV appearances in the last few months, I have kinda noticed that she's been a bit more...subdued than she was a year ago or so. That must mean that this has been something that she's been thinking about for quite a while. She said in her statement that getting an education is/has been something that she's considered to be an important goal, so she's made the hard choice. In terms of what's best for her in the long term, this probably was the better move for her to make, we all know that. Careers in the entertainment industry (particularly for Idols) aren't exactly known for long-term stability, and like many other girls in the business, Yuukarin probably has other things outside of being an Idol that she has wanted to do.

Of course, it goes without saying that we'll continue to support her, both during her remaining time in Smileage/H!P and in her life after it as she pursues her studies.


Still....




Yuukarin...
:mon cry:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Aioros on October 25, 2011, 06:19:30 AM

In before 'S/mileage is dead' predictions?

I'm sad to see another one of H!P's top, homegrown talents go, but I'm also happy that Yuuka is looking forward for her future.

Losing Yuuka is a big hit but let's not forget that S/mileage is a group that rose and prevailed over challenges to reach where they are now. Though it looks like trolling in our eyes, it seems that Tsunku has been preparing them for situations like these.

It's been always a delight to watch them perform and missing another member will surely need some getting used to. It's time for everyone to step up and prove that even if S/mileage lacks another member now, they will never lack heart.

Kanon is probably in emo mode as of now, but I wonder how the other girls, especially the ones who looked up to her like Eripon, Meimei, etc, felt when they found out. Also, Chisato seemed to be the most vocal with what she felt about the S/mileage auditions and when Saki left. She must really like these girls a lot. :cry:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: shirenuファクトリー on October 25, 2011, 08:43:51 AM

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO :(

One of my Egg babiessssss :(

Yet at the same time I'm not that surprised, she's always been so honest and even anti-idol character ("I want to cut my hair but cannae T_T" etc)

But damnitttt

I really wanted to watch her grow up

Shit poop

Wish her all the best but I considered her one of the current aces, so guh.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: MaxMcKay on October 25, 2011, 02:17:31 PM

Whoa, elsewhere people are speculating that the "real reason" of Saki & Yuuka's leaving is because they did not agree/accept the addition of a 2nd gen to s/m

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on October 25, 2011, 03:36:58 PM

having followed four very cute and entertaining Mano chan backdancers, through their formation as S/mileage, it is sad to see Yukka announcing that she will be following Saki out the  Hello! Project door for the last time in just two months.

But like eveyone has said today, good on her for following the path that she thinks is best for her, and just as I will always be greatful to Saki for sharing her talents and lovely spirit with us fans, the same goes for Yukka. Yukka was a different personality than Saki, but Yukka was always working hard to put on a good performance and her vocal skills were a great pleasure to enjoy. Without a doubt, will always support Yukka in any way possible, and wish her the best as she continues her adventure known as life.

No speculation as to why Yukka wanted to leave other than exactly what she has said, and unless she wants to provide further information down the road, no real urge to speculate.

At the end of the day, all of the idols we enjoy as fans, are somebody's daughters, grandaughters, big sisters, little sisters, classmates, best friends, they are indeed "us" except they bartered for  the excitement of being accepted into show business with a payment of a lot of time, hard work, and sacrificing a normal life of sleeping in on weekends, hanging out with friends at the mall, studying, joing a sports club, etc., and we all enjoyed this decision they made, because we got to watch someone like Yukka give her all, with a special skill and graceful beauty.

As many posted today, willl want to encourage Dawa and Kanon, as they continue on, and the new members will certainly grow into a fine unit with two great veterans to lead the way.

Yuuka, thank you for all the great times you provided us, and please study hard, play hard, and keep being you!! :cow:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: shirenuファクトリー on October 25, 2011, 04:20:17 PM

Quote from: MaxMcKay on October 25, 2011, 02:17:31 PM

Whoa, elsewhere people are speculating that the "real reason" of Saki & Yuuka's leaving is because they did not agree/accept the addition of a 2nd gen to s/m

Well then elsewhere ppl must be a little ridoinkilous.
(1) It's much more likely that the audition was decided on in the first place because Sakichy and Yuukarin had expressed desire to leave earlier on. The girls don't decide these things over night, unless the decision involves getting photos of them with their boyfriends printed on magazines.
And more importantly,
(2) Idols don't get to throw hissy fits & temper tantrums because they don't like their management's decisions. 1st generation Momusu was pissed off as hell about 2nd gen being added. Did they quit? No. Also, it would've been incredibly stupid to quit being an idol simply for that reason, because in S/mileage even with added members they had pretty much a guaranteed leading position. Hell, in Momusu a ton of members have had to watch their younger members get more lines than them, and even then they've stayed.

I understand that a lot of fans are disappointed about the S/mileage 2nd gen decision, but omg please don't reflect those ideas on other people with their personal problems and life decisions to make. Sakichy and Yuuka were missing something they felt was more important than being an idol; they didn't leave because they wanted to rebel, for fuck's sake lol.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: MaxMcKay on October 25, 2011, 05:33:15 PM

Still, tbh, I no longer buy the "graduate because of studies" anymore
After Asuka fessed the real reason behind her grad was being bullied due to her young age; & Murakami Megumi "suddenly quitting" after the alleged-boyfriend photos surfaced

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: frblckstr1 on October 25, 2011, 06:34:22 PM

Quote from: J-Triumf on October 25, 2011, 03:35:45 AM

(http://picroda.jphip.com/misc/jphip00370.jpeg)

Quoted for truth, she was the only reason left to follow Smileage...

Have a good study Yuuka! Make it count.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: resop2 on October 25, 2011, 07:16:18 PM

Quote from: shirenu on October 25, 2011, 04:20:17 PM

Quote from: MaxMcKay on October 25, 2011, 02:17:31 PM

Whoa, elsewhere people are speculating that the "real reason" of Saki & Yuuka's leaving is because they did not agree/accept the addition of a 2nd gen to s/m

Well then elsewhere ppl must be a little ridoinkilous.

What was a little ridoinkilous was the six separate conspiracy theories for Ogawa Saki's graduation.  Only one theory is kind of tame.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Slack on October 25, 2011, 08:08:52 PM

Quote from: frblckstr1 on October 25, 2011, 06:34:22 PM

she was the only reason left to follow Smileage...

With statements like this, I have to question whether you followed S/mileage or only followed her.
That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it's like saying Morning Musume was dead when Rika left.

To be honest, Yuuka's presence in the group has been having less and less impact outside of their musical performances.
Sure she was the star of many of their songs, but on TV and internet appearances she's been something of a bump on the log.
Compared with Ayacho's eccentric, art-loving leader and Kanon's idol wota/professional troll/Cinderella personas, Yuuka's "I like puns" thing hasn't stacked up well.

I love Yuuka, and recently when I was deciding which S/mileage member was my favorite, it was a tough decision between her and Ayaka.
But when I did finally decide on Ayaka, it was mostly due to the reasons above.

In the end, I think maybe you meant "she was the only reason left for me to follow S/mileage".
There is an important distinction between that statement and the one you made, which says to me, "this is what I feel and everyone else should feel this way too because it's the objective truth".
When there's six other girls in the group, many of whom have personalities that stand out more than Yuuka's, how hard is it to find a new reason to follow the group?

As a strong subscriber to the idea that the group is far stronger than any one member, I'm afraid I just can't accept the premise that the group is now dead.
I will however say that I agree with this sentiment:

Quote from: frblckstr1 on October 25, 2011, 06:34:22 PM

Have a good study Yuuka! Make it count.

I seriously hope she makes the best of her decision.
I'm just afraid she'll just turn into the prettiest OL in the office:
(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip20003.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip20003.jpg)

Go get 'em, Yuuka!
Show the world that Egg Quality!

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Serafis_CZ on October 26, 2011, 12:18:55 AM

To me, leaving to focus on studies still makes sense. Practically no one in H!P went to college because they simply don't have time to take studies seriously when they also want take seriously their job. It's probably just matter of preferences. Playing cute girl to masses don't have to be for everyone.

I hope she will be happy wherever her new path will lead her. This is probably the most important. Fans will reconcile to it. It sounds harsh but this is how H!P works... one leave, other come... show must go on :peace:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: strawb3rrykream on October 26, 2011, 01:11:54 AM

Awww Yuukarin :cry: She was my favorite in S/mileage. She's just so damn cute and innocent lolol At least she looks innocent, but who knows what's going on behind those adorably bright eyes XD

But I really hope she does well and gets into a good college, and is able to follow her dream that way. I also think wanting to continue her studies is a valid reason. Maybe it was used as an excuse for others but that doesn't mean it's the same in every case. She does seem like the type to want to go to college. I mean, KonKon did it and it's been great for her, why not take her lead and do the same?

Ganbare, Yuukarin!

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: elgie on October 26, 2011, 02:45:06 PM

Every time one of these girls leaves to follow their studies I feel happy. They're supposed to be role models, so what is better an example than this?
Also, her message was truly sincere and well-thought. She sounds mature and intelligent and thay bodes well for her future. Go Yuuka! :)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: oaxiac on October 26, 2011, 05:05:22 PM

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24852.gif)

 :cry:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on October 26, 2011, 05:16:46 PM

Poor Yuuka, she had the weight of her nearing annoucement on her shoulders that day.....but  her future is bright indeed(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip11800.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip11800.jpg) :deco:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: frblckstr1 on October 26, 2011, 06:40:59 PM

Quote from: Slack on October 25, 2011, 08:08:52 PM

Quote from: frblckstr1 on October 25, 2011, 06:34:22 PM

she was the only reason left to follow Smileage...

With statements like this, I have to question whether you followed S/mileage or only followed her.

Yes I forgot to put the 'to me' in there, and yes I actually first followed Smileage because of Yuuka as I knew her from Hing King.
The group was fun so I actually bought the first single and followed them longer.
Adding the extra members I did not find such a good idea, then the first origional member left now the second one: so yes this is not the same fun Smileage anymore to me.
And there last songs where just 'fast' not really 'fun' in my opinion.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: oaxiac on October 27, 2011, 06:01:57 AM

Quote from: Maeda Yuuka

Thank You

Maeda Yuuka | October 27, 2011 | 00:16
By rokun | Translated: October 27, 2011

Thank you
for all the comments!

Each and every one of your words
pierce my heart.

But it’s just vexing that I feel like I’m expressing the things I’ve thought and thought about and decided in only small part and with just a shallow feeling in writing.

I took the time
to read all of the comments!

If there were those who said to just do my best
there were those who also said I shouldn’t do this
and there were also lots of people
who just couldn’t understand and agree.

But I think
that is natural.

Since if I was in your position,
I would surely be asking “Why?” myself.

Though I have a lot of thoughts,
I’ll lock them all up inside me.

Though it’s simple to put
all of those feelings I have now into words here

since even they
I’m sure will be heard in just a shallow way
I won’t write them.

And so I’ll work hard
through these 2 months
to express those feelings in my attitude!
to all of the fans,
as well as the members I love
who always support me.

But please
understand this much.

This isn’t a decision
which I’ll change my mind about just by what people tell me.

It’s not a simple feeling
which just came into my mind a little bit ago
and I just decided on like yesterday.

I don’t think
that you’ll come to understand
what I’m feeling. Though I don’t think that,

and though it’s probably selfish,
please at least accept that (;_;)

Though nobody
can know what’s right
or what’s wrong

since I don’t want
to regret something I’ve decided myself
I’ll put all my strength into it
believe in myself, and do my best!

Also, so you’ll be able to think
that you’re glad you supported me,
from now on, as well as after I graduate,
I want to be true to myself!
Or rather, I am being true!

From now on I’ll do my best
so that I can repay the support everyone has
always given me :guu: :guu:

I’ll always
be incredibly grateful!

I want to start writing my blog again tomorrow
like I always have :sun:

http://blog.mm-bbs.org/maeda-yuuka/36950 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/maeda-yuuka/36950)

Other messages/reactions:

Wada Ayaka
http://blog.mm-bbs.org/wada-ayaka/36893 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/wada-ayaka/36893)

Fukuda Kanon
http://blog.mm-bbs.org/fukuda-kanon/36758 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/fukuda-kanon/36758)

Yajima Maimi
http://blog.mm-bbs.org/yajima-maimi/36905 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/yajima-maimi/36905)

Okai Chisato
http://blog.mm-bbs.org/okai-chisato/36901 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/okai-chisato/36901)

Michishige Sayumi
http://blog.mm-bbs.org/michishige-sayumi/36870 (http://blog.mm-bbs.org/michishige-sayumi/36870)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: MaxMcKay on October 27, 2011, 01:04:18 PM

Quote from: muppet on October 26, 2011, 05:16:46 PM

but the her future is bright indeed

Her future could be bright if she furthers her current h!p career path
But the number of unemployed college graduates with debts due to college fees (they aren't cheap) are on the rise,
So why is Yuukarin leaving a current career for it?
That's why people still bring up "possible unhappiness within S/mileage"

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: shirenuファクトリー on October 27, 2011, 02:04:30 PM

^ Because she wants an education? Dear god if a girl wants to improve her knowledge and intellectuality instead of posing for pictures and singing and dancing on stage. Some people just want to LEARN. And if something is hindering that (like her career is for Yuukarin), it's likely to only make the person more passionate about reaching her goal.

This is also why so many people choose "useless degrees" when they go to university (literature, philosophy, linguistics...). They just want to learn more about something they are passionate about. It's not always about logic, but about doing what feels right for YOU. We only live once, etc.

I'd assume younger fans have the most trouble understanding this because most of them are forced to go to school and don't necessarily like it. But it's a privilege to have access to education. Falling behind in studies in comparison to your classmates doesn't matter to everyone, but when you're the type of person who cares about things like that, it can be destructive to your self-confidence or at least bother the heck out of you, probably on a daily basis. I'd hate to have Yuukarin in that type of mind set every day. Anyone who's ever felt dumb for reasons he can't help should be able to understand what she's thinking and feeling.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on October 27, 2011, 04:00:50 PM

First, great posts by Yuuka and her Hello! Project mates who posted about Yuuka's decision. Very thoughtful and warm hearted young ladies and all the more reason why I admire their characters.

Now some thoughts:

Yuuka became an egg in 1994 2004, when she was 9 years old.  She turns 17 on December 28th of this year. She has essentially been a child performer for nearly half of her life.
Rather than asking why she is leaving, the question is why don't more idols leave the entertainment world as they become high school aged?

Very few of them will remain in the entertainment field as a performer, and the great majority of them will re-enter the ordinary world. The orignal five Morning Musume Members actually have an unusually long time remaining in some form of public entertainment.
Yuko Nakazawa- Single, is still essentially a full time professional performer. She became an "idol" at age 24, so she had the chance to reach whatever educational goals she wanted to pursue, and when she became an idol, she was an office worker.
Kaori Iida- Was 16 or 17 when she became an idol- stated at the time that her only dream was to become a singer. Remained the longest with Morning Musume of the orignal members- took some time off to get married and start a family. Tragically her son died as an infant, and she felt in his memory that it would be the right thing to continue as an etnertainer. One of my personal favorite people in the Japanese entertainment world, a dignified and beautiful person, with a likeable "spaciness" at times.
Natsumi Abe- just about the same exact age as Kaori (they were born in the same hospital in Hokkaido, you could say rivals since birth!!) very well known, still going strong as an entertainer.
Aya Ishiguro- became an idol at about age 19, left three years later, got married and started a family "quickly". Now the mother of three children, she has dabbled in semi-celebrity, doing various projects related to being a celeberity mom, fashion, etc. Her husband is Shinya Yamada, who was drummer in the famous band Luna Sea. Thank God Aya stayed in Morning Musume long enough to be part of their biggest single "Love Machine" ....cannot imagine that song and video without her.
Asuka Fukuda- became an idol at 12 years old, dropped out entirely two years later- and dissapeared entirely. Reason given was she wanted to go back to school, but later she mentioned being bullied, as she was so much younger than the rest of the members. I do remember one comedy show where she was being twirled around by her ankles by a comedian, and then her sweat pants came down, and she was weaing granny panties, and she looked horribly embarassed. Imagine being a shy 13 year old and havng that kind of shit happen on national television- could not have been too nice for her.

Why all the long discussion about the first five members? The ones who got in entertainment at an older age have less to be conflicted about- a couple of them already through with school and Kaori and Natsumi were senior high schoolers who sure as hell found being an entertainer was a lot better than freezing their asses off in Hokkaido working in an office. (well I have no idea, but it is pretty darn cold up there in the winter!!)

But for kids who join as young as seven years old (Mai Hagiwara of C-ute)- I am not surprised as they become teenagers, some of them have second thoughts.

Back to Yuuka, I absolutely think her future is bright- she is a thoughtful and bright young woman, and she can continue to discover who she is and take a path on the adventure called life. She does not owe anyone an explanation, but has graciously tried to convey her true feelings.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on October 27, 2011, 04:45:29 PM

forgot to mention in post above- Asuka Fukuda, just this year, got back in the business, and will have a release out in November. Of course now she is 26 years.
(and thank you mske san, for pointing out that Yuuka did not become an egg in 1994  :D (Tsunku san has not yet recruited fetus to be a member) :panic:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: shirenuファクトリー on October 29, 2011, 03:21:40 PM

Right. This is a post about Yuuka Maeda :heart:

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24873.jpg)
WHO'S DAT WIDDLE WIDDLE CUTESIE GUH

It's a little early since she hasn't graduated yet, but eh I felt like doing this.

Basically it's me posting random pictures and rambling :3

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24885.jpg)

Yuuka Maeda passed the H!P Egg audition in 2004. Two years later I started gathering information about H!P Eggs. Yuuka was one of the first ones to catch my attention because she was, and is, one of the cutest girls I've ever seen. :wub:

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24874.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24875.jpg)
Pictured: Yuuka's suffering face, one of my favourites... And Yuuka with her Tomoiki activity :3 Anata no soba ni ki wo uetai~

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24876.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24876.jpg)
In 2006, she had a tv role in Gakincho Return Kids that got me super excited. Too bad she never really got on tv again, but it sounds like she was busy enough with other work. Either way, it was a good time to figure that there was something special about her. Tbh, I've still never seen a clip of her on this show... Only pictures.

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24883.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24883.jpg)
Everyone remembers High-King, right? Their songs were so good. Goddamnit her voice is adorable, it's even easier to tell when it's put next to lower & more mature voices like all the leaders. I was whining about this choice a little bit because Tsunku claimed it was the best dancers and Yuuka clearly wasn't the most talented dancer among Eggs (Konatsu was). But Yuuka is cuter and a better singer, so it worked out... :lol:

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24877.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24877.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24878.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24878.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24879.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24879.jpg)
Woop woop so many Shinjin Kouens >o<

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24881.jpg)
ADORBS COLLAGE. Shugo Chara Egg, etc.
What I love about Yuuka is that her eyes are so honest. She may not have been looking happy on tv recently or whatever, but she was once happy. Her eyes have that genuine sparkle when she's truly smiling. Just, goddamnit. So cute!

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/t/jphip24882.jpg) (http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24882.jpg)
When S/mileage finally took off, I was so proud of my Eggs >o< Ironically, I haven't been spending as much attention to them since their debut than before it. I used to watch every Egg video, but pretty fast gave up on trying to watch every S/mileage video. I can't really explain it; even I thought that S/mileage would become my favourite H!P unit, but then I fell in love with Morning Musume all over again and I guess that was it... I still think they have a great discography though, and listen to them all the fucking time lol.

(http://picroda.jphip.com/hp/jphip24884.jpg)
One of my favourite pictures of Yuukarin to date :wub:

Even if Sakichy was also an Egg, Yuukarin's departure is affecting, and possibly will affect me more. Yuukarin was one of my favourite Eggs; not a top favourite, but up there... And she's always seemed so genuine and honest that, I suppose, I can't help but take it very seriously if she says she hasn't been able to do things the way she'd like. It somehow feels more personal than idol troubles usually feel for me. She never really came up with any kind of character, she was just this silly girl who did puns and worked hard with her friends. And sometimes that is just enough. I kind of want to give her a big hug and tell her it's all going to be alright :lol:

My ~emotions~ are a weird mix of understanding her decision and supporting it, but at the same time sadness over what could have been. I think I would've only become a bigger fan of hers in the future. Because Yuukarin seems so down-to-earth, she probably would've been an amazing older member. She is only getting more and more beautiful, as well... And the best part is, I'm not even sure she realizes herself how cute she truly is. :lol: Someone like Kanon does, but I'm not sure about Yuukarin. Whoever gets to date this girl in the future is a lucky son-of-a-bitch.

Anyway...

It's been a great pleasure to know Yuukarin for the past five and a half years! So much love bb girl, so much love.

(http://picroda.jphip.com/misc/jphip04334.jpg)
Thank you for the memories, Yuukarin!!

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: MaxMcKay on October 29, 2011, 05:34:12 PM

Will Tsunku be writing a grad solo song for her as Please Miniskirt Postwoman's b-side like he wrote Never Forget for Asuka & Keichan?

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Slack on October 29, 2011, 09:50:25 PM

Since it's coming out on her birthday, I wouldn't be surprised.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Parhelion69 on November 03, 2011, 06:11:39 AM

Great post Shirenu, got me emotional since Yuuka is one of my all time favs, and since Aichan's not anymore in H!P, she was right at the top, so it hurts a lot seeing her departing. I'm still a bit depressed, but I'll just need time.

Thankfully 9th and 10th gen are very exciting for me, and I want to see s/mileage and mobekimasu's direction so my love for H!P isn't going anywhere. It'd be much better if Yuukarin was around though.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on November 03, 2011, 11:40:29 PM

phityannext5 has posted this pre graduation tribute to Yuuka

スマイレージ　前田憂佳　卒業記念 ＯＰＶ　ＨＤ  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFCUqWWeVco)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on November 11, 2011, 03:02:32 PM

Youtuber smilesu3 has begun the 50 day countdown to Yuuka's graduation with this tribute featuring shots of Yuuka through the end of 2006. It is entitled  "Volume 1", so I think we can count on some more chapters soon.....

前田憂佳 Vol.1.wmv (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CPdrHqkljw)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on November 21, 2011, 02:59:47 PM

smilesu3, with the second in a series of goodbye tributes to Yuuka chan, as she prepares to return to her studies in 2012, and to give up the life of an idol

前田憂佳 Vol.2.wmv  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEfxKzZcbTY)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: oaxiac on December 02, 2011, 06:44:12 AM

Volume 3 of smilesu3's epic Yuuka tribute:
前田憂佳 Vol.3.wmv (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woX_RmTzf9c#ws)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on December 04, 2011, 03:17:38 AM

hisakozou created this tribute to Yuuka

Yuuka Maeda (S/mileage) tribute video Nov.2011 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vLjmDndWU4)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on December 12, 2011, 01:32:09 AM

Volume 4 -of  smilesu3  's tribute to Yuuka

前田憂佳 Vol.4.wmv  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMKz16Vkytg)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on December 21, 2011, 04:12:49 PM

Volume 5 - of  smilesu3  's tribute to Yuuka

前田憂佳 Vol.5.wmv
 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3yfdjOSfGc)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: linlin on December 31, 2011, 01:11:21 AM

can't believe it's today...
will there be any events or anything to bid her goodbye?

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on December 31, 2011, 01:41:33 AM

I do not know what event is planned (or not) to graduate Yuuka.
YouTuber  seiji617  has made this tribute video using the really beautiful song "Sayonara" by Kariyushi58, and has title his clip "At the End of the Dream" (music starts at 0:26)

夢の終わりに　　前田憂佳  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXOXKMzKGsU)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: winner on December 31, 2011, 05:17:38 AM

Watched HelloPro! TIME ep35, which is a good send-off to Yuuka. Pretty funny stuff. :)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on December 31, 2011, 05:39:52 AM

I saw that episode, it was nice....

another tribute, from YouTuber  turbos866 - nice job


憂佳、ありがとう。  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9jnCcdAQ6A)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: kyo- on December 31, 2011, 07:36:25 AM

^the video really good, now my sad go deeper  :cry:
the day is come.. another thread have to move again...
but i'm still not prepared.. i just wish yukarin happy  :cry:

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: MaxMcKay on December 31, 2011, 06:20:47 PM

(http://thumbnails36.imagebam.com/16738/bc80be167375308.jpg) (http://www.imagebam.com/image/bc80be167375308)
(http://image.ohozaa.com/i/75d/mRG91.JPG)
(http://www.montney.com/images/crying.gif)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: kawaii beam on December 31, 2011, 07:06:59 PM

i swear the s/mileage site is way to fast with these type of things lol ;3; poor girls though they're really crying their eyes out. i really hope that whatever yuuka does she's really happy with it.

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: shirenuファクトリー on December 31, 2011, 07:09:28 PM

Happy New Year and Happy Rest of Life, Yuukarin~

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: Rina the Robot on January 01, 2012, 03:09:27 AM

Barks article about Yuuka's graduation

http://www.barks.jp/news/?id=1000075960 (http://www.barks.jp/news/?id=1000075960)

Title: Re: [12/31] Maeda Yuuka to Graduate from S/mileage and Hello! Project
Post by: muppet on January 01, 2012, 01:49:19 PM

smilesu3  posts the final episode in a fine series.....


でわ！.wmv  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUcGR-39ZrQ)