What makes To Be by Ayumi Hamasaki notable?

'To Be' became a commercial success, reaching high positions on the Oricon charts and contributing to Hamasaki's status as one of Japan's top-selling artists. The album's remixes showcased the evolving sound of late '90s J-pop and influenced subsequent artists in the genre, reinforcing Hamasaki's significant role in shaping contemporary Japanese music. Released on May 12, 1999, 'To Be' marked Ayumi Hamasaki's transition into mainstream success following her debut album 'A Song for XX.' At this point, she was rapidly gaining popularity in Japan, establishing herself as a leading figure in the J-pop scene after her initial breakthrough. This single would solidify her reputation and lay the groundwork for a prolific career.

To Be works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, infectious energy for workouts and uplifting melodies for celebrations.

How many songs are on To Be?

To Be has 7 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

To Be

Ayumi Hamasaki · 1999

37 min · 7 tracks · J-pop · electronic

A vibrant fusion of J-pop and dance beats, filled with soaring melodies and infectious energy.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo dance vibes
infectious energy for workouts
uplifting melodies for celebrations
for group sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you want

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek lengthy introspective pieces

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on May 12, 1999, 'To Be' marked Ayumi Hamasaki's transition into mainstream success following her debut album 'A Song for XX.' At this point, she was rapidly gaining popularity in Japan, establishing herself as a leading figure in the J-pop scene after her initial breakthrough. This single would solidify her reputation and lay the groundwork for a prolific career.
Stylistic neighbors: Namie Amuro· Miliyah Kato· Perfume

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 TO BE (original mix) 5:19
2 TO BE (Dub's cool wind remix) 5:57
3 appears (H.W Tokyo Hard House mix) 5:38
4 Fly high (SHARP BOYS U.K VOCAL MIX) 4:06
5 Fly high (Supreme mix) 6:25
6 Fly high (SAMPLE MADNESS REMIX) 5:06
7 TO BE (original mix, insturumental) 5:17

What to play next

Listen next

A Song for ××

1999

Go back to

Ayu-mi-x 6: Gold

Full Ayumi Hamasaki discography Where to start with Ayumi Hamasaki Artists like Ayumi Hamasaki

J-pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata