Namie Amuro, formerly known as Namie Maruyama, celebrated her 40th birthday yesterday (Wednesday, 20th September).
The Japanese superstar dropped a bombshell by shocking fans with the announcement that she will be officially retiring from the music business next year. On the 26th anniversary of her career, the singer would be abdicating from her throne on 16th September 2018.
In a letter written in both Japanese and English on her website, Amuro said:
“Dear all fans:
Thank you very much for your continuous support.
September 16 marked the 25th year since my debut. I could not have gone 25 years without your support, for which I am eternally grateful. Thank you!
Today, I would like to write about something that I have carried on my mind and have decided on the 25th anniversary of my debut.
I, Namie Amuro, would like to take this opportunity to inform all of my fans of my decision to retire as of September 16, 2018. I plan to make the last year of my music career meaningful by focusing my full attention on creating a final album and performing at concerts.
Then, I will welcome the date of September 16, 2018 in the best way I can.
I hope this year will be filled with wonderful memories for me and the fans together. Together, let’s make this coming year the best one possible!
Namie Amuro”
Amuro shot to fame in the 1990s as a teen queen. The pop star made her debut in the group Super Monkey’s before pursuing her solo career. She recently completed 2 major concerts in her native Okinawa.
Sources: Amara Japan, Strait Times, Japan Times/ Featured image: Vogue Taiwan.
