Ayumi Hamasaki is a Japanese singer, songwriter, fashion designer, model and entrepreneur. Entering the music business in 1999, she soon became a teen sensation. From 2003 onwards she has consistently been #1 in Japan, expanding her music between pop and dance. Launching her own brand of clothing and cosmetics in 2007 she has become an icon for Japanese girls and her sex appeal makes her popular with Japanese boys. Her power and influence have led to her being referred to by Life magazine as "the uncrowned queen of Japan".