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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Why this album works

'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.

Best for: steady mid-tempo dance vibes infectious energy for workouts uplifting melodies for celebrations
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: Every Little Thing· Namie Amuro· Puffy AmiYumi· Nami Tamaki· Perfume· Scandal· Tatsurō Yamashita· Sekai no Owari

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Tracklist

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

1 TO BE (original mix) Standout 5:19
2 TO BE (Dub's cool wind remix) Standout 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) Standout 6:25
6 Fly high (SAMPLE MADNESS REMIX) 5:06
7 TO BE (original mix, insturumental) 5:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

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J-pop