[kimmeh]

I don't live in Japan, but I have a lot of friends there, japanese and exchange students. From my experience, it seems like they think that Ayumi is still strong, and she is still famous. Not hardcore fans only. But like any other artists, the quality of her songs are kinda.. decreasing? I mean, compare Duty to Love Again... The Japanese seem proud of her, even though they don't necessarily listen to her music anymore. I'm pretty sure they wouldn't be embarrassed if she was to perform at an international event, but I think they'd go, "But we have so many other great and inspiring artists, why choose her?"

But all in all, Ayu is an icon for japanese pop music.

I could always ask the girls the same question and post their answer? I can ask both a fan and a non fan