Music has the power to transport us through time—and that’s exactly what happened when J-pop legend Hikaru Utada graced the mic once again for a stirring rendition of her 1999 hit single “First Love” on the popular Japanese YouTube channel First Take. The performance, which aired on May 18, 2025, marked a deeply nostalgic moment 26 years after the song’s original release.
Utada’s piano-accompanied version showcased her timeless vocals and emotional depth, bringing tears and memories to fans who grew up with the iconic ballad. Her intimate performance captured hearts once more, proving the enduring legacy of her music.
Originally released in 1999 as part of her debut Japanese-language studio album “First Love,” the song quickly climbed to classic status. The album remains the highest-selling Japanese album in history, with over eight million copies sold nationwide.
In 2022, the song gained a new wave of attention through Netflix’s Japanese series also titled “First Love,” inspired by Utada’s music and starring Takeru Satoh and Hikari Mitsushima. Now, with this new live version, both old fans and new listeners are reminded of Utada’s unmatched artistry and emotional range.
Hikaru Utada’s appearance on First Take is more than a performance—it’s a beautiful reminder of music’s power to transcend time.
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