Mieko Hirota (1947–2020) was a pioneering Japanese singer whose vibrant voice and cosmopolitan style made her one of Japan’s first pop idols to gain international recognition. Beginning her career as a child performer, she rose to fame in the 1960s with a repertoire that blended jazz, pop, and contemporary influences. Known for her sophisticated interpretation and linguistic versatility, Hirota broke new ground when she performed at the Newport Jazz Festival, marking a milestone for Japanese artists on the global stage.