[Uemarasan]

I have a different take on things, though. If you'll notice, female artists are expected to constantly reinvent themselves (Madonna, Namie Amuro, Taylor Swift) to maintain their success and relevance, with very few exceptions. Otherwise, they become lost in the dialogue (Barbra Streisand, Mika Nakashima, Mariah Carey). However, male artists are expected to remain true to their musical aesthetic (Bob Dylan, Eminem, Mr. Children). Personally, I believe it's a function of old, deep-rooted and unconscious sexism (men are expected to be stable providers and women are expected to be exciting partners). Personally, I prefer artists, male or female, who stay true to their musical personas, and that's why even though I agree Namie Amuro is more exciting and relevant, I always return to Ayumi regardless of the good or bad because she's stayed true to who she is. I'm just waiting for her to take the next step and mature as an artist instead of reinventing herself.