Akino Arai - 新居昭乃 - artists - JaME U.S.A.

Tokyo born Akino Arai is a popular songwriter/vocalist who rose from humble beginnings singing at her mother's coffee shop to chart success with a number of well received album and single releases.

Akino Arai will probably be most recognised outside of Japan for her contribution to the vocal tracks to many famous anime series. Her most famous song Voices from the "Macross Plus" soundtrack is one of many examples of her collaborations with celebrated composer Yoko Kanno. In addition to her collaborations and participation in a number of bands, including Marsh-mallow and Zabadak, Arai is primarily known for her solo work. Her individual vocal style and song writing skills set her apart from typical run of the mill J-pop performers.