9nine is a Japanese idol group formed in 2005 and associated with Sony Music. Pronounced as "nine," the group began as an auditioned lineup of nine members and gradually evolved into a tighter, performance-focused act. After a label change in 2010, 9nine emphasized a more polished "performance girls unit" identity, balancing idol appeal with a stronger stage-oriented image.
The group’s history has been shaped by lineup changes and reinvention, but its concept has remained recognizable. Its early nine-member idea eventually gave way to a smaller core built around performance and presentation, helping define 9nine’s public identity over time. As an idol group, 9nine stands out for maintaining continuity through multiple member changes while keeping a recognizable concept tied to its name and roots.
Current members are Uki Satake (佐武宇綺), Sayaka Nishiwaki (西脇彩華), Kanae Yoshii (吉井香奈恵), who joined in 2010, and Hirona Murata (村田寛奈), who also joined in 2010. These members represent the group’s later era and its move toward a more stable, performance-driven lineup after earlier transitions.
Former members include Azusa Matsuzawa (松沢 梓), who left in January 2007; Miwako Wakatsuma (我妻 三輪子), who left in January 2007; Rubi Katou (加藤 瑠美), who left in December 2007; Marie Ashida (芦田 万莉恵), who left on March 27, 2009 and served as ex-leader; Mai Yoshida (吉田 茉以), who left on March 27, 2009; Midori Yamaoka (山岡 みどり), who left on March 27, 2009; Madoka Shimogaki (下垣 真香), who joined in 2007 and left on August 31, 2010; Moe Miura (三浦 萌), who left on August 31, 2010; and Umika Kawashima (川島 海荷), who joined in 2007 and left on July 23, 2016.
