Hikaru Utada, often simply known as Utada, is a preeminent figure in the Japanese music industry, recognized for her deeply resonant voice and an ability to infuse her music with emotional depth. Born on January 19, 1983, in New York City to music producer Teruzane Utada and enka singer Keiko Fuji, Utada spent her formative years between the United States and Japan, leading to a bicultural and bilingual upbringing that has significantly influenced her music. Hikaru Utada debuted as a commercial powerhouse with her 1999 album "First Love," which remains one of the best-selling Japanese albums of all time.

Over the years, Hikaru Utada has transcended boundaries between pop, R&B, and dance music, contributing to her broad appeal and enduring success. Her discography is vast and varied, with more recent releases such as "BADモード," "PINK BLOOD," and the reflective "初恋 (2022 Remastering)" and "First Love (2022 Mix)," which celebrate her longevity in music by revisiting her early hits. Utada has also been influential in the world of gaming, with her songs serving as themes for the popular "Kingdom Hearts" video game series. Not just a musical phenomenon, Utada has continuously evolved as an artist, with live performances like "Hikaru Utada Live Sessions from Air Studios" that showcase her dynamic range and intimate connection with the audience. Moreover, their deep personal lyrics and involvement in their music production has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following across generations and international borders.

Genres

Anime

Classic J-pop

J-pop

Japanese Singer-songwriter

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Latest Release

Stay With Me (feat. Hikaru Utada)

Sam Smith•

Hikaru Utada

Single - Released August 22, 2024