Yumi Matsutoya, affectionately known as "Yuming," is a seminal figure in Japanese pop music, celebrated for her distinctive voice and dynamic live performances. Beginning her career as Yumi Arai in 1972, she quickly rose to prominence with hits like "Ano Hi ni Kaeritai." After marrying producer Masataka Matsutoya in 1976, she adopted her married name and continued to shape the J-pop landscape. With over 42 million records sold and 21 number-one albums on the Oricon charts, Matsutoya's influence is profound. Her music, blending pop rock, jazz fusion, and folk rock, reflects inspirations from artists like Joni Mitchell and Carole King, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the genre. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yumi_Matsutoya?utm_source=openai))