Who Is Momometal? BABYMETAL’s Newest Member and Her Journey
Who Is Momometal? BABYMETAL’s Newest Member and Her Journey
Published by: TicketDetectives.co.uk | Focus Keyword: Momometal BABYMETAL
Introduction
In 2023, BABYMETAL officially welcomed a new permanent member—Momoko Okazaki, better known to fans as Momometal. After years of speculation and support performances as one of The Avengers, her elevation to full-time member status marked a new chapter in the band’s evolution. This article explores Momometal’s background, her journey from idol trainee to global metal performer, and her place in BABYMETAL’s 2025–2026 world tour lineup.
From Idol Roots to Rising Avenger: Momoko’s Pre-BABYMETAL Career
Before joining the ranks of BABYMETAL, Momoko Okazaki was already no stranger to the Japanese entertainment industry. She first entered the public eye as a member of Sakura Gakuin—the same idol group that originally birthed BABYMETAL. During her tenure with Sakura Gakuin from 2015 to 2018, Momoko developed core performance skills and an understanding of the unique fusion of idol culture and musical ambition that would serve her well in the years to come.
While at Sakura Gakuin, she was known for her bright personality, exceptional dancing, and versatility across genres. Her appearances in group units like “Kagamika” and participation in musicals and live events made her a fan favorite. She graduated from Sakura Gakuin in 2018, closing that chapter with admiration and optimism for the future.
Post-graduation, Momoko didn’t disappear. Instead, she trained further in dance and stagecraft, laying low from the spotlight while refining her technique and building her artistic identity. Her continued dedication made her a prime candidate when BABYMETAL launched a rotating backup system known as The Avengers in 2019 to support their two-member format after Yuimetal’s departure.
The Avengers Era: Filling the Void and Proving Herself on Stage
In 2019, BABYMETAL debuted a new concept to support the group’s two-member format following Yuimetal’s departure: The Avengers. This rotating trio of dancers would join Su-metal and Moametal on stage to maintain the group’s signature symmetry and choreography. Momoko Okazaki quickly emerged as a standout among them.
Her debut as an Avenger took place during the band’s METAL GALAXY World Tour, where she toured internationally and performed at major festivals, including Download Festival in the UK and performances across the U.S. and Asia. Despite not being a vocalist, her presence, timing, and expressions on stage gained instant approval from fans and peers alike.
Unlike a typical background dancer, Momoko brought identity and soul to her role. With subtle nods, headbanging precision, and sharp expressions, she captured the spirit of BABYMETAL while maintaining her individuality. Over time, fans began calling her “MomoAvenger,” and she developed a loyal following who campaigned for her promotion to full-time status.
Her work ethic, consistency, and dedication across dozens of performances laid the groundwork for what would come next—becoming Momometal.
Official Promotion: Becoming Momometal in 2023
After nearly four years as a support performer, Momoko Okazaki was officially introduced as BABYMETAL’s third core member on April 1, 2023. Her long-anticipated promotion came during the band’s Metalverse concept launch and was met with overwhelming positivity from fans worldwide.
The announcement was made with style and symbolism—Momoko was presented not just as a replacement or backup, but as a fully integrated warrior within BABYMETAL’s evolving universe. The new trinity—Su-metal, Moametal, and Momometal—signified a fresh era for the group, complete with updated visuals, lore, and an expanded sonic palette.
Fans celebrated across social media platforms with trending hashtags like #WelcomeMomometal and #三姫再臨 (The Return of the Three Princesses). Longtime followers praised the decision as well-deserved, citing her consistency, charisma, and connection with the audience as key reasons for her inclusion.
Momometal’s promotion marked a full-circle moment not only for her personal journey but for BABYMETAL’s commitment to growth, resilience, and honoring its roots while charging toward the future.
Performance Style and Stage Presence of Momometal
One of Momometal’s most defining traits is her magnetic stage presence. She balances precision and power with fluidity and charm, creating a performance style that feels both intense and approachable. Her movements are sharp, synchronized, and emotionally expressive—qualities that seamlessly fit the choreography-heavy performances BABYMETAL is known for.
While Su-metal leads vocally and Moametal contributes dual vocals and theatrical flair, Momometal reinforces the trio’s symmetry through her dynamic movement and crowd engagement. She often maintains eye contact with the audience, amplifying energy through headbanging, fox signs, and facial expressions that shift from fierce to playful in an instant.
Her training in dance and idol performance shines through in moments that require athleticism, timing, and coordination. Whether it’s a dramatic drop in “Headbanger!!” or a synchronized battle routine in “PA PA YA!!”, she adds dimension and consistency to the group’s visual storytelling.
Critics have praised her for blending into the BABYMETAL mythology while maintaining an identity of her own. She’s not simply filling a space—she’s redefining it.