Today is a sad day for Babymetal fans as Yuimetal has decided to part ways from the group. The announcement was made shortly after the J-Pop/Metallers unveiled the new song “Starlight” as they issued a statement on their website revealing that their World Tour in Japan will mark the rebirth of the band with Su-Metal and Moametal being the core members of the group.

Read the full statement below:

“YUIMETAL had expressed her desire to return performing with the group in the following months after last December’s performance due health concerns. During her absence, both SU-METAL and MOAMETAL as well as the entire staff team had been preparing for her awaited return. However, YUIMETAL came to a decision that she will not be performing at BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2018 in JAPAN and that she will no longer be a part of BABYMETAL. We thank her for all of her contributions and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

This month’s BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2018 in JAPAN will mark the rebirth in which SU-METAL and MOAMETAL form the core of BABYMETAL.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the fans for the continued support and look forward in what’s next for BABYMETAL.“

Earlier this year, fans expressed their concerns on Yui’s whereabouts as she was absent from the group’s North American tour. The band’s management confirmed she was an active member and everything appeared to be settled and resolved at that time. However, it looks like Yui has been struggling with this decision for a while as the artist penned a note to her fans. Her statement also shows that she is possibly working on a new solo project.

Yui issued the following:

“I have been absent for a while and I am really sorry for the inconvenience caused to many people.

Although I thought over and over, I decided to leave BABYMETAL this time.

I am sorry to cause inconveniences to those who support the members and BABYMETAL at this decision. And, for all the fans who are supporting BABYMETAL, I’m really sorry I made you sad.

There was also a strong desire to stand on the stage once again but there is also a feeling that I am still not in my best condition now and my desire to advance towards my dream as a Yukari Mizuno dream from the past, this time this time I made a decision.

As BABYMETAL, I am thankful for having a lot of valuable experience.

It was days I feel blessed. It was a live, fun and happy time that everyone laughed and became one.

I will also strive hard to see you again someday as Mizuno Yuji.

Thank you very much for 8 years.”

Listen to Babymetal’s new song “Starlight” below: