Utada Hikaru is a Japanese-American singer-songwriter who is widely considered to be one of the most successful and influential artists in Japanese pop music history. She was born in New York City to a Japanese mother and a father who was a music producer.

Utada made her music debut in Japan at the age of 16 with her album "First Love," which became the best-selling album in Japanese history at the time. She quickly gained a massive following in Japan and across Asia, known for her powerful vocals, songwriting abilities, and her unique blend of pop, R&B, and rock influences.

Throughout her career, Utada has released a total of nine studio albums and numerous hit singles, including "Automatic," "Can You Keep a Secret?," and "Flavor of Life." Her music has also been featured in popular Japanese anime and video games, such as Kingdom Hearts and Neon Genesis Evangelion.

In addition to her music career, Utada has also been involved in acting and activism, particularly around issues related to mental health and suicide prevention. She has won numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including multiple Japan Record Awards and World Music Awards.

Utada's influence on Japanese pop culture is undeniable. Her music has inspired countless artists and continues to resonate with fans around the world.