Jasmine Will Be Bigger Than Any Other Artist

She's often referred to as the next Utada Hikaru, but not much else is known about her. The nationwide media has shown barely a glimpse of young singer Jasmine (20), but her single "Sad to Say" has already topped the digital download charts. It's being reported as the first time an artist has reached No.1 on the charts before making their official debut, which Jasmine did a week later on June 24. The song hasn't even benefited from a TV commercial tie up, and its success has been mostly through online viral marketing and the comparisons with Utada. She also wrote her own songs from the start and did all her pre-debut promotions only on the radio. Jasmine says she considers Utada a big influence but was first inspired to become a singer at the age of 13 after seeing a gospel choir perform at the US military base in Yokota. She dropped out of high school in the tenth grade and passed an audition with Sony Music a year later. She has since performed in clubs and appears every Thursday on the J-Wave radio station. No doubt we'll be hearing a lot more from this young singer.

It's not just the way she looks that is getting attention. (Though it did make me think, Lady Gaga)? The song is just pure talent. I really love her voice! She's definately become a new idol for me! (Although is it ironic that I just finished Sophmore year)? She undoubtedly has the talent and rhythm to reach the top (as she already has) but how long can she hold onto the popularity (of being a newcomer)? Personally, her voice really does remind me of that of Utada Hikaru. Wouldn't it be awesome if they did a duet together? Two amazing voices in one performance! (Let's hope!)

Go Jasmine!