A Research Paper on Ayu
 

Hello everyone and hello fellow Ayu fans! I'm currently a third year psychology student and my teacher gave me and my classmates an assignment to work on during the weekend. She told us specifically to research about someone who is an idol to us, someone who inspires us so much, and someone we look up to and try to figure out how that person presents his/herself to the world. It's more like a research on an idol's behavior.

Well..Ayu was the only person who came to mind so I thought about giving it a try. There are only about two other students I know who know Ayu too but I doubt they listen to her since they're more into Korean pop music. I know it'll be kind of awkward introducing Ayu to my classmates and teacher but I'm really determined to do a research paper on her since she's definitely someone I look up to and there are just so many reasons why I love her.

I've already done some research on her background and her pre-avex career but I think I need the thoughts of other fans as well. If it's okay, I'd like to ask a few questions. :)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?

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I guess that's it then. I think I need additional informational too so if there's anything related to Ayu that you want to share, feel free to add it here. I'd also love any simple trivia tidbit. Thank you very much everyone!

I'll be using your answers as related literature for my project and I'll definitely give due credit to everyone who has been a part of this.Thank you very much in advance for the help, contribution, and your time!
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I've been a loyal fan of the empress of J-Pop music for over 4 years now and I'm not afraid to tell the world how much she means to me even if academics is involved. It'll be the first time too that my classmates and teacher(s) will hear of my music interests so I'm giving this my all. :)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I've been a fan for ~6 years. Her music has helped me through hard times, specifically self confidence and family issues.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
I can play independent or Boys&Girls any day and my spirits will be instantly lifted. :D

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Ayu's fashion is constantly changing and I find myself loving just about all of her fashion choices to be honest. :laugh

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
How she never gives up. When she went completely deaf in her left ear, she kept going and hasn't given up any part of her singing career. When she sprained her wrist, she didn't give up and tried her hardest to perform and please her fans. No matter what bad things happen to her, she always has a good outlook on things which definitely transfers into her lyrics.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
She definitely has a certain sound and edge that I've never found with any other artist. I can listen to her songs over and over again and never get bored. :D

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
I've never talked with her.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Fun and inspiring are the first 2 words that come to mind. :D

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Passionate, bubbly, confident, sweet, friendly, loving.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
In my opinion she's chosen some bad photographers/directors, but that's just my opinion. People will always like things that you don't like. :laugh

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
No, Ayu hasn't changed at all. Her style and music may change but as a person I think she's stayed the same. If anything, she's just matured through her experiences as anyone would. :yes

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
My favorites are always changing. Some randoms I can name off the top of my head: independent, SIGNAL, kiss o' kill, monochrome

Oooh cool project! Haha this is an assignment I wouldn't mind doing!

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
- I've been an Ayu fan for just over 9 years. Right now, I'm a junior in college and basically owe my current life path to Ayu! After growing up listening to her songs, I became so deeply interested in the Japanese language so I could understand her lyrics. So I'm a Japanese major and plan on moving to Japan after I graduate! No other part of Japanese culture interested me growing up (I dislike anime, video games, etc) so this really is all because of Ayu!

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
- Her lyrics always inspire me. And I draw her a lot, so I guess she's a kind of muse lol

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
- Only that they are ever-changing :P

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
- her lyrics and her devotion (to her fans, music, career). You can tell she puts her heart into everything!

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
- I think she will always have an edge because no one really does what she does in terms of the meaning of her songs. If you listen to the lyrics of Kuu or Namie or Hikaru or any other mainstream artist, no one else is singing about what Ayu sings about. And I think that will always make her music distinct and special <3

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
- no :cry

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
- It's gone through so many stages... pop, techno, rock, trance...

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
- I think the Ayu we hear in her music is Ayu herself :yes

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
- I don't really know all that much about her staff..

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
- No. When I was younger, I wrestled with a lot of the "changes" Ayu went through. Back then, I had an immature attitude to her music (as I was very immature). In my mind change=bad so I saw her progression of style as her "going downhill" or "betraying" her fans. I thought these things when albums like "I am..." and "RAINBOW" came out! Now I'm able to appreciate Ayu as a person who grows and whose tastes change, and I accept whatever she produces (whether I like it or not) as an honest representation of herself.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
- PSII, ever free, SEASONS, Daybreak, Heartplace, too late

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I know her since 2001, but I'm a fan since 2006, that's... Four years :yes
I spend my teenage life with Ayu, and.. she made me lose more money >.> :laugh
But well I never regret it :laugh
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Yeah her lyrics inspired me, and I love to write Ayu, A logo, her song titles everywhere... =_="
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
She got an amazing fashion sense and her music style(s) is so.. wide xD
She likes trying new style, I guess
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Her music and her devotion to those she loved :yes
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
Hmm yeah I can't get bored with most of her songs, like I still listen constantly to her old songs and her lyrics are different
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
On Twitter ? XD She's really friendly with fans :yes
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
....wide :thud
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Strong but sweet :yes
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
She had some bad photographer and directors XD But well most of her stuff are fun and crazy people :laugh
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
Her music styles and image as "Ayumi Hamasaki" change a lot, but she's still the same "Ayu" :yes
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
I love a lot of songs :laugh Oh well, forever #1 = A Song For XX :heart

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I first heard one of her songs by accident about 8 years ago, and a few months later I started delving more and more into her music. About three years later, I decided I wanted to learn Japanese because of how much of an influence she'd been in my life. Five years after I made that decision, I'm here living in Japan, and I suppose you could say it's all because of Ayu.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
The most recent example I can think of is when RED LINE ~for TA~ came out at the end of last year. I was going through some pretty heavy personal problems, and that song was a big part in helping me get through some of my darkest days back then. We also come from similar family backgrounds and I think she's an amazing example of how your past and your history doesn't have to define you as a person.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
If there's one way Ayu constantly surprises me, it's in her versatility...both in her musical and fashion styles. In terms of clothes, it seems she can pull off just about any style she wants, and living in Japan I see how she continues to influence my generation in what they choose to wear. As her longevity in the music business continues, I've seen her discography grow more and more diverse, and she can pull off every genre that she ventures into.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
I love that she's a phenomenal woman who's been able to achieve something beyond her wildest dreams. Not many people have the fortitude to accomplish something like that.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
In the past she made it clear that Hamasaki Ayumi was a product, and she knew full well that was how she presented herself to the world. I think recently, though, she's opening up a little more and focusing more on Ayu as a person, which is important for her sanity. :P Her longevity and popularity give her an edge over many other artists, I think.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
I've never spoken with her one-on-one, but at a couple concerts I went to I was seated fairly close to the stage...Ayu has always said that in arenas, she can clearly see each and every fan's face, and on many occasions she singled me out and I knew she was looking directly at me, seeing me as a person rather than just another bobbing uchiwa in a sea of blue lights.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
I suppose it's most broadly described as Pop-Rock, but trying to describe her entire discography would take way more time than I have right now.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
I think she's an extremely bubbly and warm person who gets along well with many people.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
I respect her decision to work with a huge variety of different photographers and directors, even if I don't always like the end result. It makes me happy to know that Ayu always has, and always will, have input as to how the final product is released. I think too many artists give up their creative control, and I love how Ayu has always had a hand in that.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
I feel like we're seeing a more human side of Ayu than we were in the past when she seemed to be working with robotic tendencies, working for months at a time without a day off. That isn't to say she's got nothing but free time, she's still extremely busy, but she seems much more human, much more accessible.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
That's always difficult since my favorites are constantly rotating in and out, but my all-time favorite songs include Memorial address, RED LINE ~for TA~, HANABI, M, SURREAL, appears, Sunrise, and monochrome.

That's a good point I forgot to mention! She really has become so much more open in the past year or two! Twitter and her blog give us a look into her personal, everyday life that we definitely didn't have before. It really does make her seem more human and accessible since we (especially foreign fans) can actually interact with her now!

Thank you so much panda♥, dartsofpleasure, y_nathz, and chocopockymaster for your responses! Your responses are valuable to me and they'll greatly aid me in my research paper.

My teacher told me and my classmates to make it only brief but I wanted to give it more "edge" so I'm going this far. Thank you very much for your time and effort in answering my questions! You all have my respect and I'll certainly be giving credit to whom credit is due. Any other interested AHS member is welcomed to add their opinions as well and answer the questions. Once again thank you so much to all of those who responded! :)

wow!!!! you are so lucky!! i wish i could write a paper like this! i would do it in a heartbeat (the one assignment i would actually do :innocent lol)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I have been a strong Ayu Fan for 5 years ^_^ (very proud because i usually lose interest in things fast, just goes to show how awesome Ayu is)
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
I personally have felt inspired by Ayu more than once, on more than one occassion i have looked at Ayu during a concert or interview and thought "wow, she seems so sincere..i wish i could be more sincere with people and friendly like that" and so i did and its a really nice change i made in my life. Also i have been inspired by her lyrics before, for some reason the one lyrics that sticks in my mind most out of everything is in the song No way to say when she says "And that it's no use Fearing the future I can't refuse", its such a simple lyric but you would be surprised how much that line has given me courage to do things with my life that i know i have to do but have always been afraid of ^_^
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Ayus Fashion and music style is one of the things that keeps me hooked on her! she's not the same in everything she does. Ayus image and sound is constantly changing and it never takes a turn for the worse (for me anyway :laugh) it keeps her exciting for me :) plus I love how she just totally changes her image becase she just feels like it, as she said in her interview with CNN (im not going to quote because i cant remember exactly what she says XD) she said that she wears want she wants at the time because she wants to, shes not trying to make ans impression or stand out, its just what she felt like wearing ^_^

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
i think i said before that i lover her sincerety, its always been my favorite thing about ayu! she always seems to be so genuine and it really helps you connect with her on a personal level. she doesnt, to me, give off that "untouchable celebrity" vibe, plus i love how honest she is in her music :yes it makes it very relatable and again adds to the personal level, it makes you think "this is exactly how i feel...ayu went through the same feeling at some point" and then it makes you feel sad for her or happy for her depending on which song you think that too :P
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
oops lol i think i basically answered this question in the last. but pretty much same answer as before, she presents herself honestly while maybe keeping some things inside (we dont need to know everything, you wouldnt tell everything to a stranger would you? even if they adore you? :laugh)
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
*sigh* this has never happened to me :weep :P
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Different. it changes, one day Ayu will be cutey pop then Rock then R&B then Dance/electro its always so different, you really get a taste of all music genres with one person!
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Ayu seems to be a very friendly person for the most part (we all have a dark side and bad days) she definitley is a leader and not a follower and she is not afraid to say what she is thinking. Ayu is caring and warm, her fans are like her children :laugh
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
um..i dont really know much about these people lol they seem to get along? they are not afraid to talk to each other about what needs to be changed in a video/photo and why..i guess lol XD
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
i do think Ayu has changed, she seems to be getting more personal with fans in reality (does that make sence? lol) i mean, with twitter and all that i feel, and im sure all fans feel, connected to Ayu in a way thats never been before.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
Moments ~classical~, Carols, Hanabi and Hanabi ~episode II~, No way to say, You were..., Heaven

if you havent seen Ayus interview with CNN i suggest that!! ^_^ one of her answers really made my respect grow for ayu and its just something that i thought i would add ^_^ at some point the interviewer asks "so how do you see your role and responsbility as artist but at the same time, your responsibilities as a business" and Ayu Answers "you may have this image of me in which fans approach me or talk to me on the street, where i always try to excuse myself saying 'its private time for me now' but in fact i think i am very different than this image, to my fans i am Ayumi Hamasaki whenever and whereever they see me, it does not matter to them whether im working or not, so i feel that i have the responsibility to be Ayumi hamasaki all the time anywhere" (thats not an exact quote, im pretty much going on memory haha) but i always really liked that answer because it shows that Ayu knows that being a celebrity comes at a cost, shes not like alot of celebrities who are like "oh, i wanna be famous but dont talk to me or pay attention to me when im not working"

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I’ve been a fan for more than eight years now.
And Ayu has saved my life – literally. Before I knew her, I was a shy, timid and lonely person. I hated my life, because I had nothing and nobody to live for. I was a very weak person back then, I guess, because I thought that bad things only happen to me. But after I met Ayu…well, she showed me that bad things can make us stronger in the end and that nothing is sadder than giving up.
Ayu has gone through so much **** in her life and she can still go on living and smiling. That’s the reason why she is my role model.
Because of her, I'm an independent woman now, who can keep her head up without the help of others!!

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Even before I knew Ayu, I wrote poems and stories. I’m a quite creative and artistic person myself, but Ayu’s lyrics always urge me on to give my best.
So I would say that her strength and courage influences me.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
I love them both. I admire that Ayu can pull of any outfit, without looking ridiculous or stupid in it.
What I love about her music is that she is taking risks. She tries new things and even when there are always people, who don’t like her for doing so, she will not stop.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Besides her music and her lyrics, I love her personality most. She is so successful, but still such a humble person. She is nice to her fans and always has a smile for us. She even tells us about very personal things, other celebrities would keep quite about.
I love it, that she trusts us fans so much!

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
For me, Ayu is more real than other people in the JPop-industry. I don’t know how and I can’t say, if I’m right, but when she smiles, then I don’t doubt this smile to be real. When she cries, I don’t doubt these tears to be real.
Ayu often talks about “having to wear a mask” in her lyrics and I know how it feels to wear a mask. Maybe because of that I can see through this mask of hers…

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
I hope that I’ll have the opportunity to talk with her one day!

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Healing and emotional.
She doesn’t only sing about the fun and good times, but also about pain, hate, lost…bad things. She shows us, that the world is not a good place indeed, that you have to put up a fight sometimes, but that you should never give up.
I love it that her lyrics are so meaningful and deep most of the time and not only stupid pop-blabla like the lyrics of other JPop-singers.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
A friendly and warm personality, but we all know that even she can be stressed out and pissed up sometimes and that’s what makes her real to me.
She is not a puppet, but a human being with all her mistakes and faults. I can’t help, but love her even more for “not being perfect”!

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
Not much, actually. I know most of her dancers very well and also some stuff members, but that’s it.
But I know that Ayu likes them very much and cares for them deeply.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
Well, she was very shy when she started her career. She has more control about the things she does now and grew into a strong and independent woman.
But I don’t think that her personality changed. She tried different styles through these years, but she always remained the same Hamasaki Ayumi I love.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
The song I love more than any other song is “Endless sorrow”. It was my first Ayu song and it’s the reason why I’m a loyal Ayuist now.
And my other favourite songs change on a daily basis.

Yay, two more responded! Thank you very much Lizzyboo and Midori-chan!
Just like the previous respondees, you both have my deepest thanks and will be given due credit. Thank you for your time and effort! :)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I have been a fan since around early 2006, right after the release of (miss)understood. Ayu has changed my life in so many ways, but the most prominant reason is that she saved me from a very difficult time in my life with her lyrics in songs like RAINBOW, A Song for XX, etc. I can't thank her enough for that.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name
some instances?
Of course! :) She inspires me every day, with her "never give up" attitude, and her work ethic. She never gives up on any day, and so she inspires me every day. There are too many times she's inspired me for me to name a specific time. (^_^)

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Oh, definitely unique. Her costumes in concerts always amaze me, and her outfits in photoshoots are either fierce, adorable, or both! At times I wish that I could raid her closet and wear her clothes, if even for one day! Her music style is certainly unique as well. If I were to listen to three new songs sung by a person other than Ayumi, and would have to choose which was Ayu's song, I really think I'd be able to. Her music style is so defined and amazing, and I love her for it. :)

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Oh, may I say everything? Her amazing, touching, and beautiful lyrics, her gorgeous and touching songs, her fantastic sense of fashion and style, but most of all, her big heart, always reaching out to others and making them feel really lovely inside. She has such a beautiful personality, and that is what I love most about Ayu.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she
has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
Hm... I think she presents herself to the world as a hardworking singer who loves to have fun, but focuses on work too. On television shows, interviews, and even game shows, she will laugh, joke, and be funny, but when things get to serious talking, she will talk quite seriously. I think she might have a "diva" image as well. But I definitely think she has an edge over others in the industry. Like I said before, every single one of Ayu's lyrics are deep, meaningful, and beautiful. Ayu's songs are easily distinguished from other artists' songs. Her style is definitely unique, and that also sets her apart. In her concerts and tours, she goes above and beyond, too, so that also sets her apart.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
Oh, you have no idea how jealous I am of the people who got to meet her! I had to watch videos on YouTube instead. I must say, she just exuded warmth and love for all of her fans. I didn't experience this feeling firsthand, but I felt it almost as well secondhand.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Do you know that feeling, when you are petting an adorable animal that's licking your nose, or when you're holding a newborn baby that's just opened her eyes? Or when you're watching a sunset with your family or dearly beloved? It's like that. It's like...a miracle, almost, that she is able to apply all of these feelings into her music and songs. I can't aptly apply that kind of feeling to words, so I'll leave you to try her songs for yourself, if you haven't already. :)

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
She is the warmest and friendliest person that I can think of right now, actually. She is sweet, caring, and beautiful, too. She stands up for her friends when they are being harrassed, she takes the time to speak and hold hands with every fan who waits in the cold for her to arrive, and she takes the time to reply to as many questions from fans as she can. Ayu has a beautiful personality.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer,
director, etc.) They are like her family. She, her dancers, her director, her band, are all like one big family. She treats them like family and I believe that they love her very much too.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you
believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the
past years of her career? I think she has become a stronger person inside, due to the loss of her ear in 2008, and the loss of her friend in 2007. I have definitely noticed a change in her inner strength. Her warm personality hasn't changed, however.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
My favorite song of all time is "A Song for XX." This is the song that saved me. My next favorite is "RAINBOW," which played a big part in that particular time of my life. Last, I really love "kiss o' kill." Aside from the touching lyrics, it really is an insanely catchy song. :)

I'd like to do this too, whether its too late or not!! =] It's definitely interesting!!

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I first got to know about her in about 2000; I came across her PV for Depend On You on a streaming site and I was instantly taken by her originality and, despite the complex feelings in her tone that I couldn't understand because of the language barrier, I was filled with this feeling of a simple life; by simple life I mean, purely feelings. No elaborate sets and all that, just simplicity, with human feelings, even though it can safely be said its not her most emotional song.

Then in 2002 I came across a few more of her songs. Between 2000 and 2002 I had played Depend On You a lot but I hadn't looked deeper into her music because I was so young and didn't know how to use the internet well. Since then I've been a fan of her.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Her younger years are similar to mine, but at the same time, I think I had a lot more negativity in me than she did. In that case, I was always inspired by her determination to come to terms with everything in her past, her feelings, her actions, everything. She's got a "don't give up" attitude that I've been able to adapt to myself, and I think it's made me a better person.

She's also taught me that despite everything, everyone around you, that you should always be your true self and nobody else.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
The brilliant thing is that over the years we've seen her change, and her music evolve, but it's always been a pure expression of herself, and her feelings of that time. She doesn't make an image, and then adapt her personality to it; rather, she works from the inside out. Her music is the same way; she writes pure feelings and you can't go wrong with that because there'll always be someone out there who will be experiencing those things and who will be able to understand it. She's human, and in her sense of fashion, and in her music, she shows us this.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
I...love a lot of things about her actually, it's all the little things that make up a wonderful person. But I think its her personality; she's just so sweet and humble, kind and giving, and while being all that she's a person who will work hard and fight to get the freedom she wants, to be able to release what she wants. I love her attitude, I love that no matter what the world throws at her she'll stagger back onto her feet and then become solid rock again; she broke her leg and she still put on a performance, she broke her fingers but she still did a lot of direction on her PV and then put on a great show, and let's not forget her hearing, something which she's barely complained about since it first started happening years ago.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
Simply her edge is that she's just herself, and because of that, she will not release material that isn't truly her work. She works extremely hard every day to give us something and that's herself; her true feelings. She also doesn't throw us out of her dreams. She's shown us that we're part of her dreams and she doesn't tire of giving us what we want because we are always there for her, and she has no intention of putting a wall between us with this "I'm a celeb; know your place" attitude that other artists have.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
I've never had the chance to talk to her; I totally wish I could. The most I've ever gotten to talking to her was sending her a tweet, and she replied! It was a simple thank you, calling my message to her a sweet one.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Passionate and honest; no matter what the song is, whether its happy, sad, hopeful, angry, it's always filled with passion and honesty. She doesn't have one type of music which is interesting, but those two things are there no matter what the song.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
She's warm and friendly, honest, kind-hearted; free-thinker, she'll listen to what people have to say about the direction of her work but in the end she uses her own head, and decides what's right for herself. She's also motherly I think; she treats her fans like her children, and anyone who's met her can see this in the way she cares for them. She really loves everyone really, which is beautiful; I've seen fans on twitter tell her they're having a tough time with things and she'll say something back so simple and yet so caring you can't help but feel her love.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
She works with some very flexible people it seems; she works with people that understand her vision and who are prepared to work with her, her ideas and her plans, so as to come up with something as close to her ideals as possible.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
I think everyone can see that she doubts herself a bit less now, and she's come to terms with a lot of her past, which was why she got herself into this industry; she's found this place of her own and despite the disharmony at times it's a place she never sees herself running out of. To this day though, she hasn't lost all the beautiful qualities that made her who she was in the begining. So you could say she's changed what she felt like she needed to change, but never got rid of the things that made her who she was. She hasn't lost herself along the way and if she had, she wouldn't feel okay with it because it went against everything she ever believed in.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
A Song for XX. Depend On You. BLUE BIRD. SURREAL. Duty. NEVER EVER. (miss)understood. Alterna. In The Corner. HOPE or PAIN. Pride. Rainy Day. I'll stop before I go too far haha.

______________________

I'd like to add this but I really wasn't quite sure where it'd fit in those questions since it's a bit of everything and I didn't want to write too much (I failed at that, I know!)

She's the only pop artist I ever listen to; ever. Western or not; she's the only pop artist I listen to and I actually enjoy. Every where female artists, especially solo artists, are being marketed as these beautiful untouchable sexy things that dance and sing about romance, relationships, parties, dancing, drinking and stuff like that.

When Ayu first started people were really loving and accepting of feelings in music. Emotions in music at that time was more common than it is these days, but Ayu could always touch peoples hearts with her emotions better than any other person at that time.

It's interesting to note, that as time went by and all this changed, and the market of female solo artists changed, Ayu hasn't at all. Her range of music has widened, but she never lost the honest feelings in her music that made her famous. She also didn't drastically change her image. Yes, she looks a bit more mature now but that's purely because she's gotten a bit older, but nobody told her this image had to change, and her shows are packed with action, intensity, passion, emotions, cuteness, and sexiness, and all to convey the songs well unlike some other female artists (particularly in the West) who will make a sexy performance out of a soft ballad. This isn't to say she doesn't have any sex appeal, or sexy performances; but it's more "time and place" which I've got to admire her for.

It's always been proof, I think, that she wasn't going to budge, and to change everything, just for her records to sell and that'd she'd remain putting feelings into her music because her music was for her, and for us, and we'd keep listening as long as those feelings were there.

As she's once said, people are free to listen to music on their own; and to decide what they like on their own.

I definitely agree with you on everything you posted here. I really can't listen to other pop artists and not get bored after a while, whereas I'm always able to discover a new favorite song from Ayu, whether is be old or new. For instance, I discovered my love for her older pop songs like SIGNAL and HANA after she performed them at PCDL.

Ayu feels so human where as so many artists these days, as you said are like these "untouchable" people. Ayu talks to and treats her fans like we're her family or friends. Once all of those people went to meet her in England and gave her the A WORLD IS ONE book, she felt so much closer to us in my opinion. What other artist would have accepted something like that and really taken it to heart?

Her drive to keep going is the most amazing thing about her in my opinion. I've seen lives where she was sick or lost her voice, but she still performs to her fullest and doesn't lipsync. Even with her hearing completely gone in one ear, she's still singing and moving on with her career like nothing really happened.

I don't think Ayu has changed at all over the past 10 years. She's discovered herself through her music and definitely has matured, but she's still the same Ayu. She hasn't let the business change her at all, she still has her own style of music and writes lyrics that are true to her heart. :yes That is what makes her such a remarkable and inspirational person.

I've totally got to agree with you!

I think Ayu also makes us feel like "this could be you too". It's like she's famous, but she works hard for everything she gets and all that, and she tries to show us with her personality that she's human and that sort of feeling replicates on us sort of like "If I work hard I can get through the things I go through; because SHE is human also, and with working hard she's managed." She also has an insanely awesome love for her fans, just as you pointed out, and so you'll always feel supported by her.

As for her songs and getting into some of them; I'm the same way! I got into SCAR and highly appreciated it after seeing the PCDL performance of it.

It's also like I've grown through her music too; I don't listen to pop music usually, I don't listen to solo female artists (for reasons I mentioned; their untouchable stuck up, over the top sexy party girl images without a single display of proper emotion in their music) but she's broken that for me. I don't listen to ANY other pop female solo artist so in my eyes she's always going to be special to me. But because of this mold that has been broken, I find myself enjoying some of her earlier pop tracks also, but at different times in my life.

Recently, I've enjoyed the song WHATEVER, whereas in the past I never used to bother with it for a reason I'm not sure of.

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I have been an Ayu fan since I learned about her in 2000. Ayu has changed my life tremendously, if it was not for her music I really cannot honestly say that I would be the same person I am today. I really connect with her emotions.
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Only every day. There are times in my life where I feel down or think things could not get any worse for me. I can listen to a song or a full album and just be inspired by her words. Having Ayu as a part of my musical taste in life has really changed who I am today.
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Ayu has such great taste in fashion. I love how she can pull pretty much any look off, whether it be avant garde or jeans and a t-shirt, she always rocks it. Her music styles are the same for me. I really am partial to her rock music styles, but I love everything about her music.
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Everything. And I can say that honestly, there is nothing I do not like about her.
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
Well she's been in the music business for 11 years now, and I think she does have a slight edge over other Japanese pop singers, though I am sure others would not really agree with me. She has stood the test of time. She can still get #1 singles after 11 years, that, to me is a real achievement. She is always compared to Madonna, everyone saying she is like she Madonna of Japan because of how much success she has seen, not to mention her blonde hair and fashion sense.
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
Unfortunately I have not had the pleasure of speaking with her, yet. But I hope to one day. I have heard from others on the forum who have met her that she is very sweet and really loves her fans very much.
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Her music is inspiring, emotional, full of life and love.
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
I would definitely say she is warm and friendly, with a little bit of diva, but just a little bit. She doesn't go overboard and get crazy on her friends, family and fans. She has always remained true to herself.
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
They all seem like genuinely good people who care for Ayu.
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
Ayu has never changed. Her music has always remained the same, what she feels in her heart is what she writes about. That is why it is so easy for me to relate to her music.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
There are so many to list, but I'll only name a few here.
Dearest, I am..., (miss)understood, Sexy little things, Don't look back, You were..., Moments, HANA, identity, RAINBOW, P.S. II, NEXT LEVEL, Mirrorcle World, Life.

I definitely agree! :yes Ayu is such a real person. She's referred to herself as a product before but as it was said in another reply I think she's grown to accept that she can be herself and not be a product. I think that's why she has a big edge over other artists specifically, because she stays true to who she is and her music. I think every one of her songs is dedicated to a certain part in her life which makes her music so inspirational and relateable to her fans because she's experienced all of that before, showing that she IS a human being just like everyone else. :yes

Yep, yep, yep, yep and yep! Absolutely!!

I also think that's one of the reasons she's actually so close to Max; putting aside that he's discovered her and all that, I think he's also realized that her full potential is when she's writing and singing from the heart, and she's displaying herself as a true person rather than a product. He was able to understand that and didn't bother her with it, even though technically he had the power to do so as he became more in control of Avex. Yeah, it wouldn't make sense for him to have messed with her otherwise she'd leave and they'd lose a lot of money and such but I think the fact that he understood her reasons for showing herself as a person definitely helped her somewhat, I think he was instrumental, that understanding where she was coming from helped her come out of her initial shell more.

In any case, Ayu being the way she is, honest and kind, and warm and friendly and strong and determined are all just a few things that make me love her and I wouldn't change it for the world.

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
-->I think that I am her fan since 2007. Well she changed my life very much because a very small number of people in my country know ayu.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
-->Yes, because she never give up singing even because of her ear.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
-->Well, she looks very good but sometimes too shiny.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
-->Her voice, passion and her character.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
-->She presents herself in the way she really is. Maybe she has an edge because she is on the top.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
-->No, but maybe one day. xD

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
-->It is very emotional, full of passion and love.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
-->I think that she is warm and friendly. She is always with her big smile on her face.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
-->I think that if you are not friendly and smiling you can't work with her. She just brings smile to others.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
-->Yes, she has change way she sings. Her style has change. But she is still cheerful and friendly.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
-->fairyland, BLUE BIRD, Secret, Beautiful Day, Life, You, Don't look back, Pride, Will, and others....

Sure! I'll be glad to help! Psychology is such an interesting subject.
I took it at high school along with Sociology. =D

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
6.9 Years. She made me more interested in the Japanese language and I was even interested to learn it, she helped me to find a big interested which I have.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
She made me want to convey my own feelings better to everyone and fight for that people will understand me.
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
She has some great fashion choices, rarely less, she knows exactly what to wear most of the time and look good with it. Her music style is my favorite music style.
Actually I didn't like rock that much but she totally made me into that genre and I feel more comfortable listening to it nowadays. Her versatility is interesting, and even when she isn't her pop songs, ballads or pop/rock songs just do the trick. As long as she keeps them good to listen to with good lyrics.
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
That she is "awfully" genuine to herself and others.
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
I would say that she shows to the public more of her fashion icon side, even though she is not only that and she has much more to offer, way much in relation to her songs and artistic side, though fashion is an art as well. She does have an edge because even if she is a part of the industry and one of many female solo pop artists, she still stays unique.
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
She replied to me on twitter 3 times if it counts, and she was very nice!
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
I think that it's hard to describe it just like that but if I have to describe it, I probably would say that her music raises all kinds of different feelings and thoughts which all end up being positive inside of me and that's very attractive in my opinion.
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Very emotional, Caring (sometimes Careless), Very friendly and honest.
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.) The team which she always call "staff" too is a great support to her, she has an excellent connection with most of them, you can see most of the time that they are doing their best for her, of course sometimes mistakes occure, but who doesn't do mistakes?
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career? I think that she has matured a bit.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
Depend on you, meaning of Love, Sparkle, Days, M, SEASONS, Don't look back, A Song for xx, Because of You, STEP you and SURREAL.

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I've been a fan of hers for about 4 years. She's made me interested in foreign music and language, and now my passion is to become a translator/interpreter! I've realized my passion for language, and I know what I want to do with my life.
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Yes. When I'm feeling angry or down, I always go to her lyrics and realize that I'm not alone. Someone else has felt this way before! She gives me strength through her music, and that she keeps singing through her troubles (especially with one ear deafness) I should be able to carry on as well.
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
They are ever-changing, and I can find something about her music style I like every day. Don't want to listen to rock? I have all of these other genres to choose from! Whether I'm in the ballad or instrumental mood, ayu has a little bit of something for me.
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
I love how genuine she is. She genuinely loves her job. She loves to sing and perform, and you can really see it in her lyrics, the passion in her concerts, and the emotion in her vocals for the songs. I find it easy to connect with her, and feel that she really cares about her fans!
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
I think she presents herself openly, and fights to get away from the Barbie Doll, cookie-cutter image with her changing style. She doesn't want to be a product anymore. She has an edge because she's been around for so long that she needs less promotion to get good sales. She still is a fashion icon and a hit with many #1 albums and singles, and when that is attatched to her name, she has an edge over others in her industry. Her name is a household one to the people of Asia and Japan, and that alone has the connotation of her production of good music and videos.
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
I haven't talked to Ayu before.
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Like reading a series of diary entries; lyrics are things you can easily connect with in her music, and she's known for that. Her music style is ever-changing, but I think it reflects what she feels towards herself or others. Her music is genuine. Rock, Pop, Ballad, whatever it may be, it's usually some kind of crossover (Memorial Address is a rock, piano ballad crossover, Microphone is a rock piece with organ and orchestral styles).
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
I think she has a bubbly personality. Extroverted, friendly, and open about her emotions and feelings. Through TA entries, concerts, song lyrics, etc. a person can really see her thought process and what she's going through.
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
They occasionally make mistakes, but Ayu works great with them to create a piece she has envisioned. PVs and tour videos are affected by the lyrics and ayu's emotions toward the songs. I think she uses her staff/team to channel these emotions to make us(the viewers) pick up on them.
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
I think she has become a little more mature, and grown a little farther away from the bad things in her past (her father leaving, grandmother's passing, etc.). She seems more hopeful since GUILTY, and this is reflected in NEXT LEVEL and Rock'n'Roll Circus. Her past has shaped her to be who she is now, but I think she has learned to leave those things in the past.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
Boys&Girls, SURREAL, Because of You, Memorial Address, hanabi, Don't Look Back, Microphone, Talkin' 2 Myself, Mirrorcle World to name a few.

Why, thank you! Ayu was the only person who came to mind as soon as my teacher said "write about someone you admire or look up to". Ayu is such an inspiration and I'm dedicating my assignment to her. When presentation time comes, I'm going to give all my best! :)

I've watched it several times already but still, thank you for bringing it up. There are just so many wise things Ayu I could quote from her and she really was presenting herself to the world in the way she wanted to be known -not in a superficial kind of way but naturally as the 'Ayu' she really is. When I was a 'beginner' to her music, her interview with CNN made me learn more about her and I felt the connection she wanted to have with her fans. It was so touching. :)

Thanks a lot and it's definitely not too late. :yes

Wow..that was really such nice input. I love how you shared your view about her personality. It seems really right on and I agree with most of the things you said. You know, I really hope to meet Ayu one day and be able to get to know her more. She's such an inspiration to me and no matter how much I listen to other artists, Ayu was the only one who kept me coming back for more and loving her. I eventually realized that no other musician could compare to her nor give me the same feelings Ayu did through her music. I love her so much. ^^,)

It really is! There are only a few people who know about psychology (where I'm living) but I aim to make it something people should not fear nor have negative thoughts about. I was expecting an assignment like this to come one day and now that it's here, I'm determined to pour all of my heart into it since I've already decided from the start that I shall write about the special person who is in my heart. :)

Thank you so much for your responses captain-kawaii123, AngelSenshi, LacusClyne, ownsarai, ayurainbow, ayumisrael, zellyx ! Many of you also included very insightful ideas. Thank you so much for sharing and taking your time to respond to my thread. Credit will be given to whom credit is due. :)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I know her since 2008 and also in that year i becasme a fan of her. Because of her i start posting in lyrics and poetry thread. I learned to express my thoughts and feelings into lyrics, no sing lyrics but read lyrics.
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Of course i read her lyrics, and her lyrics are an influence for my ones. And because of Ayu i became more how do you say it, more adult for my age(i am 15)
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Her fashion is changing, but always very good. I think fashion is a way for her to express herself without words. Her musicstyle is also changing, but always you can hear it is ''ayu music''. And that is something i like, even when she is doing something completely new i can hear it is ''ayu music''.
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
This is a very hard question for me because i love her completely. It is her look, her voice herself what makes Ayu Ayu. I love her for beiing herself and being honest in her lyrics, i just love all of her.
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
She present herself in my opinion as a pretty comercial singer. But doing that she don't lose herself in selling her songs. And because hse is always herself nobody is like her. Not only because she si unique in her voice and music and fashion style, but also because of her lyrics.
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
No, but i realy want to.
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Her style is emotional and personal. she writes very personal and emotional songs, not like others do. Her music style is always changing, what makes her so not boring. It is music who don;t get bored like other sometimes have.
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
In my opinion she is a very nice, frienly adn good-taking-care-about-friends/family person. She is always happy and funny.
9.)What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
She works with people who are pretty good in their job, but sometimes I don;t like the peoples style. Like the person who created ''Sparkle'' and ''Lady Dynamite'' musicvideos, i really disliek his style. But things she create with these people is in commom very very good.
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
I not a really ols fan so i don't awnser this question.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
This is always changing, especialy when she ahs new songs, but now: MOON, Carols(always), Startin,rainbow,memorial adress. Mostly ballads, but i also love the faster songs. and i really like her cover of ''Hary Yo Koi''.

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
It has been fate..I downloaded "depend on you" by mistake and after one listening i was overcome and absolutely in love with this voice. From the very first second I felt a strong attraction to the singer, her charismatic aura was very perceptible.
After that first meeting, I began collecting everything about her, buying albums, translating songs..her experience throughout her sung words encouraged me for at least 11 years.
2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
I think our life experiences during childhood and teenage were pretty similar so i always found my self easily in her story-telling lyrics. The lost of our father and the controversial relationship with our mothers were important associations to with her.
Actually I got inspired from her in the genuine attitude in spite of her success.
Her look influenced me for many years.
3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
She is always surfing the highest fashion wave! Her fashion and music style change from album to album and influence all the japanese and asian taste. She's definetely leading.
4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Her sense of renovation, her informality, her desire of communication.
5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
She's half a diva and half the girl next door..that's her recipe of success to the world.
I believe that still after 12 years nobody can be compared to her or take over her.
The star that will shadow ayu must be given to birth yet.
6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
LOL that's a dream
7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Is like a feeling flow that overcomes you, that embraces you. Is something like you cannot not feeling involved.
8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)i think she's friendly, really sweet and open-hearted..but I still believe she has a deep dark side, something she didn't resolve yet. And I believe she's full of people but very lonely at the same time.
9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)They're all great professionists, I believe she could afford to choose only the best.
10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?Yeah, totally. 12/7 years ago she was totally a different person. She was really hurted by her childhood, by her feeling very different from other guys.
Now she is a mature woman, she overtake those moments but i still perceive something sad in her. She efforts to appear happy and strong, but i think her loneliness it's really heavy.
11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
Dearest, SURREAL, monochrome, HEAVEN, As if.., A song for XX, I am.., ever free, HANABI, Who.., rainy day, teddy bear

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
5 years ago when I was 13.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
Yup. I keep my nails long like Ayu and cut them asap if only Ayu cut them. I also became addicted to twitter because Ayu also tweets.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
Love all her fashion. She's not tall but everything she wore reli suit her perfectly. Her music styles are not following the mainstream much imo. but more to her choice at that time.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
Her songs, face, fingers, husky voice, eyes.. I think, everything about her.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
She presents with her brilliant words in lyrics. The edge between others is HUGE imo.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
NEVER. But I got a reply from her in Twitter. She is so nice. In my observations, she's reli nice to her fans.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Like circus. Everything is mixed up perfectly. Her songs if combined is like a story and also like her diary. Full of secret.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Warm, friendly, funny, nice, a bit annoyed when she's angry (imo), crazy friend.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
GOOD. reli GOOD.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
Urm.. I don't think so.. But I think, she's more matured now or old? idk...

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
atm, all in RnRC.

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?

I've been a fan of Ayu since Spring 2000, so just over 10 years. Ayu hasn't changed my life herself, and I like to try to keep a realistic head on my shoulders about that kind of thing. But she has definitely dictated purchase decisions. :) She's also been an artistic muse - I've drawn more pencil portraits of her than anyone else, retouched more photos of her than anyone else, designed more fanart CD covers for her than anyone else. She's also provided a soundtrack for some of the biggest events of my life - high school graduation, first boyfriend, first child, et cetera. Sometimes I feel like her lyrics are cheering me on.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?

Ayu got me interested in Japanese music to begin with, and now I'm co-creator and cohost of a J-music podcast that's quite successful. I've become a J-music journalist because of Ayu, really! That podcast is a huge part of my life, as are the two amazing friends I do it with, and I have Ayu to thank for that really. I'm also learning Japanese because I want to understand her. And I take cues from her workaholism - I'm an incredibly lazy person, but lyrics like "hajimenakya hajimaranai" from "Fly high" remind me that I have to be the one to make progress happen.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?

Her fashion taste is awesome. Not because it's always perfect, but because she wears what she wants and almost always manages to pull it off. Sure, she's worn some utterly ridiculous outfits, but the fact that she even takes the risk is awesome to me. As for her music style, I listen to TONS of music in TONS of different genres and I'd be lying if I said she was anything but pop. However, her pop does incorporate various styles of music from all over the world, so it's certainly not all bubblegum pop, not all dance pop, not all techno pop, not all rock-pop. But she's done all of that, and then some.

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?

How human she is.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?

I don't think she does anymore. What gave her an edge in the late 90's was how unique her approach was. No one was writing lyrics that personal or that sad in the J-pop music market in the 90's, and listeners finally felt they had someone who was speaking for them, someone they could identify with. Music worldwide has taken a turn away from that approach, unfortunately, and it's the slick production and catchy melodies that win - ayu's melodies just aren't memorable enough anymore. Her trendy fashion sense also is no longer a marketing point. She doesn't really have "looks" and temporary trademarks the way she used to (i.e. Duty's leopard print, Dome Tour 2001's camoflage). Her clothes are a bit more normal now, and she doesn't have "uniforms" for specific single releases (i.e. M's wedding dresses) as often as she used to. She's not trying as hard to be a product anymore though, so that's good.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?

Unfortunately not, but from what I've seen in videos and heard from other people she's very polite (almost to the point of being cold sometimes).

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?

Epic. Her music conveys emotion but with a pop sensibility behind it. Her music is dynamic, but slick; honest, but not alienating.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)

Workaholic. Probably has an on/off switch - work mode, she's probably cold, to the point, efficient, control freak is entirely likely. Play mode, she's probably fun, friendly (but only to those she's already friends with), and I bet she's a really entertaining drunk.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)

I'm glad fans can sort of get to know these people. Ayu presents them at the forefront more often than most artists seem to, so we get to know names like Yocchan and Armageddon and Shimo-kun and Stan and Midoring... They're all creative and hard working people, most of them are really talented but I get the feeling Ayu has a hard time letting them go even when they've failed her repeatedly. Every now & then she needs a reboot among her creative crew and it is disappointing when she sticks with people who aren't doing their jobs properly.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?

After her visit to HK in 2002, Ayu's approach to the "RAINBOW" album wasn't what anyone expected. There was a swift, marked change in her presentation, her world outlook, her lyrics, everything about her. It was kind of jarring. "RAINBOW" disappointed ALOT of fans at the time, I remember. The ayu we fell in love with was GONE, and it was the only real mass exodus of Ayu fans that I ever saw personally. She started writing songs about US and to US, when all we wanted were songs about HER, you know? It wasn't the Ayu we wanted to support. Even my fandom waned slightly, but I came back on board after the RMX WORKS series came out in sept. 2003.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?

M, HANABI, until that Day..., (miss)understood, evolution, JEWEL, TO BE, STEP you, criminal, alterna, Heartplace, About You, INSPIRE, fairyland, UNITE!, monochrome, POWDER SNOW, P.S II, I am..., SURREAL, NEVER EVER, ever free, Far away... oh man there are alot. I will say that I'll listen to all of LOVEppears and Duty without skipping any tracks, and (miss)understood and Rock'n'Roll Circus skipping only one track on each.

I think it's the typical japanese attitute

I don't know if you still need this... but anyway I want to colaborate ^^

_____________________________

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?

I know Ayu since December 2003. I can't really think of how Ayu changed me because of course I don't know how would I be without her. But I'm sure she has done something. She gave and still gives me something to dream and hope for... I don't know in how many ways, but I'm sure Ayu has something to do in the person I've become.

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?

Yeah, sure. First of all, Ayu has a great fashion taste, so of course she is a great reference in that aspect. In other ways too. Her lyrics are inspiring and are easy to relate to them. I find myself searching for advice in her lyrics, or listening to them to help me go through something.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?

She is chameleonic! In both aspects, she is able to wear girly, pink dresses or a dark rockish look and still be "Ayu". And music-wise too. She is known for trying a lot of styles, rock ballads, pop ballad, rock, pop, electronic, etc...

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?

That even though she looks so divaish, she's still so human, like all of us, and that she cares a lot about her fans, she wants to be close to us, and that makes me love her more and more everyday!

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?

Mmm... After her peak in the music industry I think Ayu avoids to act like artist often do, and I think she focused her career on satisfying her fans and keep doing what she loves instead of searching for more fame. And I don't think she has "edge" to other artists, but I'm pretty sure Ayu already knows who are her friends in this industry and also tends to be surrounded always by the same people of her staff... So more than edge I think she just wants to be around the ones she trusts.


6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?

I still can't believe it, but yes! In London I was able to talk a bit with her. I can't descrive that feeling. She was so close with us, it was winter and she touched our hands saying "Oh! You are so cold!". She was really kind and funny, she talked to us so naturally that it shocked me!

And well.. if that counts she has answered me many times in twitter, she is just so kind and friendly hahaha.

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?

Wow... mmm... Difficult question... Her music is Ayu, and Ayu is feelings, emotions... Her music is not to listen as background, all her songs are meaningful.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)

I think she is really friendly and warm, funny and sensible, but also really intelligent and mature.

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)

After all these years Ayu created her own "Ayu family". She is working with friends and people she feels comfortable with. I fidn amazing how we all know the names of her band, dancers, bodyguards, nail artists, photographers...

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?

Yes, I think so. Everyone changes even within 1 year. ayu is not the same Ayu she was 12 years ago, not even 6 years ago. Even though Ayu is still Ayu, she is more mature now and she went from writting about her and for her, to wrtie about other people problems, world issues such as freedom, and then to write for other about her experiences. Her lyrics in each album show us the Ayu at the moment, now Rock'n'Roll Circus album's lyrics show us who is Ayu now.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?

Memorial Address, Marionette, Talkin' 2 myself, Last Links, GAME, Because of You, A song for XX, teddy bear, walking proud, Decision, (miss)understood, HEAVEN, criminal.. (ok I stop here hahaha)

Hello again everyone! I'm sorry I couldn't drop by here so soon. I was too busy with other things at school. Nevertheless, I've read your responses. Additionally, I'd like to thank ayufan-, C+R+E+AYUMI, asmAyumi1992, Delirium-Zer0, and aura~. Thank you very much for taking the time to respond to my thread! I'll give credit to whom credit is due. Thank you everyone for being a part of my research. This will definitely aid me in my research paper. You all have my deepest thanks. :)

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
early 2006.. so it's been 4++ years now.. the longest period I have ever had to be someone's fan. My friend offered his I Am album to me years before that, but at that time I just turn it off after listening to a song, coz I don't like it. In 2006 after watching her AT 05, I was addicted to her songs and starting to look for information in the internet, then I stopped at this site and read all of her lyric translation (thanks to Masa) after that.. I just can't stop listening to her music and the funny thing is I Am is one of my all time favorite now..

she made me interested to Japanese culture and I'm learning Japanese language now because of her..

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
She helped me.. going through a lot of things.. she made me understand in order to achieve something you have to work hard, she also inspires me to stand for something even if it's different with others, to be myself and to be stronger.

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
she has a wide variation of music and fashion tastes.. she's dare to try new things. I personally love it when she sings a lot of rock songs, luv it luv it.. her fashion style, I love her style in the LOVEppears, I Am, Rainbow era.. and when she's trying to dress up more maturely in the My Story, (miss)understood and Secret era.

I don't really like it when she's trying to dress up sooo cute in her concert/magazine.. I mean come on.. you're 30 YO already.. she doesn't look weird though.. but I don't know, just don't like it

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
her personality, creativity, and she knows what she wants, how she focus and willing to work hard to achieve it.

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
in the early years she regarded herself entirely as a product, and she worked hard as a product until a point when I guess she could take no more of it. It's no longer about how she presents herself to the world.. It's more like she's using her music as a prove of her existence in this world, as she has stated before, "music is my life" and how she will be dead if she's no longer a musician..


Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)? --> I think half of the young entertainers in Japan are influenced by her.. music wise, attitude wise or maybe marketing skills wise.. :D since she's one of the most successful artist ever in Japanese music industry.

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
NEVER. sadly.. haha but I wish I would have the chance someday

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
her lyric are awesome! and she's sooo good with words, and so smart with it.

every time I have any emotion I could always find a lyric suits me, how cool is that?? Sometimes it makes me think that she's using certain words cleverly in order to reach wider audiences.

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
I think she's the kind of person who could be sooo demanding and annoying when it comes to work. She's a perfectionist and control freak I guess.. she has these images specially in the early years of her carrier..

although she produces mannnyy good lyrics and so good with words, I personally think she has the difficulty to "connect" with others orally, she tends to be a passive side when it comes to a conversation with a new person she meet. (like me actually). But when it comes to someone she knew then she could be someone warm, bubbly and chatty..

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
GOOD, everyone seems to work hard and giving their best

I think they see her as a professional who will give everything to achieve the target.. and I think they do pay a high respect to her because of her commitment to her music.

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
YES definitely. The fact that she's no longer regards herself as a product affected the way she interacted with others. She seems to be opening herself to others in these 2 years? Using the TA messages, with lots lots of photo taken from her home, before that.. there'd never be a picture taken from her private residence.

I think in the early years of her career, she sort of trying to draw a line between her, her staffs and her fans, I guess since she's seeing herself as a product, so staffs to her were just her colleague, and fans to her were just her customer. She was not accessible, particularly about her private life.. but everything has changed lately, she opens up, to her fans, her staffs..

In the past she also seems to be struggling with herself A LOT (I guess because she's restricted to do a lot of things she wanted to..) and she seems to be having a difficulty to trust others (she has it too now, but it's much better compared to the past).. but along with her growing age and maturity, she seems to mature a lot.

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
hanabi, hanabi episode II, I Am, Secret, Endless Sorrow, Dolls, Pride, Is this love



To me she's a very interesting person, I love to read her interviews and her lyrics, she's the kind of person who thinks a lot about herself and anything surround her, she also has this amazing skill to observe anything surround her and then turn it into a beautiful lyric.

and by the way, I was actually planning to use Ayu as a topic for my thesis too!! but I still have no idea which side of her I will use as my topic since I will not start to write it until the next two semesters.

Good luck with your paper and update us with it.

Thank you very much for your response k21sh3n! I'll add this in my research paper too. I'm happy to know someone was thinking of writing about Ayu too. I think it's a rare chance encounter but a really nice one. :)

My teacher told us we'll be presenting our papers next week so I'll be able to tell you guys how it went after then. Once again, I want to sincerely thank everyone who has taken part in my thread. I really appreciate the time and effort you all have devoted in helping me with this school paper of mine. Thank you very much!

1.) How long have you been a fan of Ayu? In how many ways has this musician/artist changed your life?
I've been an Ayu fan since the year of 2006.. it has been 4 years... She changed my way of thinking... I used to be very emotional but this girl's smile just made me smile~

2.) Do you find yourself inspired/influenced by her? If so, can you name some instances?
By her sense of fashion

3.) What can you say about her fashion tastes and music style(s)?
All her lyrics are very connected to her. As she put all her life in her lyrics and put it out for the whole world to see... She likes to connect her songs with fans too~

4.) What do you love the most about Ayu?
When she's dead serious on planning on her tour / when she's goofing around

5.) How do you think Ayu presents herself to the world? Do you think she has an "edge" over others (who are in the same industry as hers)?
She is presenting her ownself to the world...

6.) Have you ever talked with Ayu? How was she like?
i didn't have that chance to~

7.) Can you describe what her music is like?
Pop-ish and BALLAD

8.) What kind of personality do you think she has? (Is she warm, friendly, etc.)
Warm, Friendly, Funny, Serious

9.) What can you say about the people she works with? (The photographer, director, etc.)
She trusts them~

10.) If you've been a fan of hers for more than two years now, do you believe that there has been a change in her personality in some ways over the past years of her career?
She has gone kinda emotional since the early 2008 era, where she lost her friend, hence the song untitled ~for her~.. but she got back on her feet

11.) Lastly, can you name some of your favorite songs by Ayu?
Over
Sexy little things

Hello there chloeM! Thanks for your answers. It's not too late to add them. Thank you very much for your time and effort. :)