α+ Ignites the Stage with Debut Single “Seishun no Effect” and Major Live Announcement
The highly anticipated 11-member idol group, α+ (Alpha Plus), a collaborative effort between 株式会社VAZ and 株式会社TWIN PLANET, made their official debut on February 18th with the digital release of their 1st single, “Seishun no Effect.” The debut was accompanied by the premiere of its music video, capturing the essence of youthful exhilaration. Further amplifying their grand entrance, α+ is slated to perform their first live show as the opening act at the ‘CREATEs presents IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION 2026 Supported by TGC’ on March 15th at Yoyogi National Gymnasium.
“Seishun no Effect”: An Anthem for Youthful Courage
“Seishun no Effect” is a refreshing, quintessential idol song that encapsulates the vibrant energy of youth. Renowned lyricist Hiroko Yamazaki, known for her delicate psychological portrayals, and composer/arranger Koichi Tsurusaki, celebrated for his catchy melodies, have crafted a track that resonates deeply. The lyrics tell the story of a girl who, initially hesitant and caught in a cycle of overthinking, breaks free from her shell when confronted with the pure emotion of ‘love,’ accelerating her heart’s true feelings.
The title “Effect” signifies the profound impact of genuine emotions, transcending the filtered realities of social media. It conveys that feelings from the heart can truly transform the world. The song’s closing line, “Tell them, I can do it!” serves as a powerful cheer for listeners, encouraging them to take that crucial first step. This track has also been selected as the theme song for the “merupuchi audition 2026,” a significant project for “merupuchi,” a popular YouTube channel among junior and senior high school girls in Japan. The song aims to inspire both auditionees and viewers to pursue their dreams and find the courage to step forward.
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“Seishun no Effect” Distribution Link:
https://sndo.ffm.to/a5ogmky -
“Seishun no Effect” Music Video (released Feb 18th, 8 PM JST):
https://youtu.be/Zs_VPpDH7FQ
The Birth of α+ and Their Inspiring Mission
α+ was formed with five starting members, including Mahoko Seno, who previously served as the center for the popular YouTube channel “merupuchi.” Following an audition process held from October 2025, six additional members joined, bringing the total to 11. The group’s slogan, “Cheer up all the ‘I want to try’s in the world!”, reflects their commitment to supporting individuals in an SNS era where only the ‘best self’ is often celebrated. They aim to stand by people’s deepest desires and encourage them to take a leap of faith.
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α+ Official Website:
https://alphaplus-official.com/ -
α+ Official YouTube: @alphaplus_idol (https://youtube.com/@alphaplus_idol)
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α+ Official TikTok: @alphaplus_idol (https://www.tiktok.com/@alphaplus_idol)
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α+ Official Instagram: @alphaplus_idol (https://www.instagram.com/alphaplus_idol/)
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α+ Official X (formerly Twitter): @alphaplus_idol (https://x.com/alphaplus_idol)
Live Debut at ‘IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION 2026’
α+ will make their highly anticipated live debut as the opening act at ‘CREATEs presents IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION 2026 Supported by TGC.’ This event, one of Japan’s largest idol and fashion festivals, will be held at Yoyogi National Gymnasium. It’s an exciting opportunity for the group to showcase their talent and connect with a wider audience for the first time.
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Event Details:
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Date: March 15th (Sunday)
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Time: Doors open 11:00 AM / Show starts 12:00 PM / Ends 4:00 PM (tentative)
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Venue: Yoyogi National Gymnasium (2-1-1 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0041)
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Official Website:
https://idolrunwaycollection.jp/
A Message from Member Mahoko Seno
Mahoko Seno shared her thoughts on the debut single: “I love how the song captures the emotional journey of the protagonist, who, after constantly overthinking about someone they like, finally realizes their true feelings, causing the ‘speed of liking’ to accelerate. In the last chorus, with the line ‘I’d never known such acceleration,’ she experiences a completely new sensation by acknowledging her deepest emotions. I want to cherish that feeling as I sing to everyone.” She hopes the song will be a catalyst for anyone pursuing a dream or challenge to listen to their inner voice. “Together, the 11 members will pour our individual feelings into making this a wonderful song!”
Exciting Debut Commemorative Campaigns
To celebrate their debut and the release of “Seishun no Effect,” α+ is hosting two special campaigns:
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“What You Left Undone Before Graduation α+ Will Cheer You Up!” Campaign (Student-Limited)
Students are invited to submit their unfulfilled wishes before graduation, whether it’s confessing feelings, creating unforgettable memories with friends, or expressing gratitude to parents. α+ members will personally cheer on selected applicants. The application period runs from February 18th, 10:00 AM to February 28th, 11:59 PM.- Application Form:
https://forms.gle/sLYwkx44RiNVCzun8
- Application Form:
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“Seishun no Effect” TikTok Campaign
Participants who create and post TikTok videos using the “Seishun no Effect” song will be entered into a lottery to win a jacket signed by α+ members. Whether it’s a dance challenge, a compilation of α+ clips, or a slideshow of personal memories, all submissions are welcome. The campaign is open until February 28th, 11:59 PM.
The Future of Cheer-Up Idols
With their powerful debut and a mission to “Cheer up all the ‘I want to try’s in the world!”, α+ is poised to become a significant presence in the idol scene. Their focus on authentic self-expression and supporting inner courage, especially in an age of curated online personas, offers a refreshing message. As they step onto bigger stages like the ‘IDOL RUNWAY COLLECTION,’ their music and message are sure to resonate with fans, potentially inspiring a new wave of ‘Kawaii’ culture that champions genuine emotion and empowers individuals globally.
