{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2024}} {{Infobox album | name = I Am... | type = studio | artist = Ayumi Hamasaki | cover = Iam3.PNG | alt = A body shot of a woman (Ayumi Hamasaki) wearing vines and leaves around her body, letting down her brown hair. As she looks towards a distance, a dove sits on her shoulder while standing in front of a desert-like surrounding. The title of the album is superimposed on the image. | released = January 1, 2002 | recorded = 2000–2001 | studio = * Prime Sound Studio (Tokyo) * Studio Sound Dali (Tokyo) * Now-a-Days Attic (Tokyo) * Electric Sheep Studios * Avex Studio (Tokyo) * Sony Music Studios (Tokyo) | genre = * J-pop * rock * dance | length = 70:35 | language = Japanese | label = Avex Trax | producer = * Max Matsuura * Ferry Corsten | prev_title = A Best | prev_year = 2001 | next_title = Rainbow | next_year = 2002 | misc = {{Singles | name = I Am... | type = studio | single1 = M | single1date = December 13, 2000 | single2 = Evolution | single2date = January 31, 2001 | single3 = Never Ever | single3date = March 7, 2001 | single4 = Endless Sorrow | single4date = May 16, 2001 | single5 = Unite! | single5date = July 11, 2001 | single6 = Dearest | single6date = September 27, 2001 | single7 = A Song Is Born | single7date = December 12, 2001 | single8 = Daybreak | single8date = March 6, 2002 | single9 = Connected | single9date = April 7, 2003 }} }}
'''''I Am...''''' is the fourth studio album by Japanese recording artist Ayumi Hamasaki. It was released on January 1, 2002 by Avex Trax and was distributed throughout Asia in both physical and digital formats. Hamasaki enlisted long-time collaborator Max Matsuura to assist with the album's creation, and was inspired by the events of the September 11, 2001 attacks to emphasise lighter themes in contrast to her previous work.
''I Am...'' is a J-Pop record with a diverse range of sounds including rock, heavy metal, trance, and dance music. Lyrically, the album touches on themes of hope, peace and love. The album received positive reviews from music critics for its musical direction and Hamasaki's emotional presence, with some citing the album as one of her best. Commercially, ''I Am...'' was a success in Japan, reaching number one on the Oricon Albums Chart. It was certified double million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) for exceeding two million unit shipments, and is ranked as the fifty-fifth highest-selling album in that region.
''I Am...'' spawned various singles in Japan and internationally; two singles, "M" and "Evolution", sold well over one million units in Japan. To promote ''I Am...'', various songs from the record were promoted in commercial and campaigns in Japan. Moreover, Hamasaki embarked on two concert tours in the same region: her 2002 arena tour, and her 2002 stadium tour. Both tours were commemorated with live DVD releases that were commercially success in the country.
==Background and development== {{Quote box | quote = “Overall, I felt like I was throwing my true self into the album, so ''I am...'' naturally fit. But that’s not the only reason. In 'Daybreak', there’s a line: ♪Blaming this era, losing my face.♪ I feel like we live in a time where there are so many 'faceless people'—people without individuality, all the same. And that’s really sad.” | source = —Hamasaki explaining why she named the album ''I Am...''.<ref name="freak"/> | width = 28% | align = left | style = padding:8px; }} On September 28, 2000, Ayumi Hamasaki released her third studio album ''Duty''.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Duty|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2000|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-11837}}</ref> It was a critical success upon its release, partially noted for her songwriting abilities and overall production standard.<ref>{{cite web|first=Neil|last=Z. Yeung|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/duty-mw0000708707|title=Ayumi Hamasaki - Duty|publisher=AllMusic|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref> It became Hamasaki's best-selling studio album in Japan, debuting at number one on the Oricon Albums Chart and selling over two million copies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/45020/1/|title=Duty - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref name="riaj_2001_02">{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2000年12月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. December 2000 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_02.pdf | journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=February 10, 2001 |volume=495 |page=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116140557/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_02.pdf |archive-date=January 16, 2014 |access-date=January 17, 2014}}</ref> To promote the record, Hamasaki embarked on her 2000 concert tour and eventually her annual Live Countdown concert tour.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Ayumi Hamasaki Concert Tour 2000|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2000|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVBD-91021}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Ayumi Hamasaki Countdown Live 2000-2001 A|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVBD-91060}}</ref>
Work on new music began after the promotion for ''Duty'' concluded, with the release of her single "M" in December 2000.<ref name="M">{{cite AV media notes|title=M|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2000|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30197}}</ref> Initially dissatisfied with the original results her team had given her for the track "M," Hamasaki decided to compose the tune herself.<ref name="Rockin">{{cite journal|first=Atsushi|last=Shikano|journal=Rockin'on Japan|date=February 2001}}</ref> She was pleased with the final sound, so she concentrated on writing and producing new material for the album under the alias Crea.<ref name="TimeInterview2">{{cite magazine | first=Lisa | last=Takeuchi Cullen |url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/int_ayumi2.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020403141617/http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/int_ayumi2.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 3, 2002 | title=I have very clear ideas of what I want|magazine= Time | access-date=January 2, 2008 | page=2 | date=March 25, 2002}}</ref> During the early stages of development, Hamasaki's record label Avex Trax planned to release a musical retrospective of the singer's career. Despite Hamasaki's refusal, Avex Trax released her greatest hits album ''A Best'' in March 2001 as a "competitive strategy" against the release of Japanese recording artist Hikaru Utada's album ''Distance''.<ref>{{cite AV media|people=Ayumi Hamasaki (performer)|title=Hamasaki Ayumi: Light and Shadow, Despair and Decision at age 25|medium=Documentary|publisher=Nippon TV|location=Fukuoka, Japan|date=2004}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Chris|last=True|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/ayumi-hamasaki-mn0000758915|title=Ayumi Hamasaki biography|publisher=AllMusic|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=A Best|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-1195}}</ref> Despite its massive commercial success in Japan at the time, this resulted in a minor pause in her new material.
Unlike her previous albums, Hamasaki did not begin with a clear theme when making ''I Am...'' due to limited production time.<ref name="freak">{{cite web |last=Okabe |first=Kazuki |url=http://www.avexnet.or.jp/beatfreak/168/artists/ayu.html |title=''I Am...'' |work=Beat Freak |publisher=Avex Trax |access-date=November 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020220123922/http://www.avexnet.or.jp/beatfreak/168/artists/ayu.html |archive-date=February 20, 2002}}</ref> Instead, she focused on shaping sounds she wanted to express.<ref name="freak"/> Midway through, she realized the album lacked unity, which led her to identify “sharing freedom and loneliness” (a lyric from Naturally) as the underlying concept.<ref name="freak"/> Hamasaki told ''Time'' that the September 11, 2001 attacks in New York City affected her emotionally. As a result, she decided to concentrate on "lighter themes" like faith and peace.<ref name="Time5">{{cite web|url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/cover5.html|title=Empress of Pop|publisher=Time|date=March 25, 2002|accessdate=December 14, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071228123046/http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/cover5.html|archive-date=December 28, 2007}}</ref><ref name="TimeInterview">{{cite web|first=Lisa|last=Takeuchi Cullen|url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/int_ayumi.html|title=I have very clear ideas of what I want|publisher=Time|date=March 25, 2002|accessdate=December 14, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020403094310/http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/int_ayumi.html|archive-date=April 3, 2002}}</ref> Along with this decision, Hamasaki decided to broaden her market by performing outside of Japan; in 2002, she made her international debut at the MTV Asia Awards in Singapore.<ref name="FacesofAyu7">{{cite magazine| first=Lisa | last=Takeuchi Cullen | url=http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/photoessay/7.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021005220516/http://www.time.com/time/asia/features/ayumi_hamasaki/photoessay/7.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=October 5, 2002 | title=The Many Faces of Ayu | access-date=April 17, 2008 | magazine=Time | page=7 | date=March 25, 2002}}</ref>
==Composition== ''I Am...'' is a J-Pop record that incorporates various sounds such as rock, heavy metal, trance, dance, electronic music, and acoustic-driven instrumentation.<ref name="AllMusic">{{cite web|first=Neil|last=Z. Yeung|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/i-am%A6-mw0001257019|title=Ayumi Hamasaki - I Am...|publisher=AllMusic|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref name="Lollipop">{{cite web|first=Michael|last=McCarthy|url=https://lollipopmagazine.com/2002/08/ayumi-hamasaki-i-am-review/|title=Hamasaki - I Am... - Review|magazine=Lollipop Magazine|date=August 2, 2002|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref name="TimeInterview2"/><ref name="YesAsia">{{cite web|url=http://us.yesasia.com/en/mc/-/47S016957W/Emagazine/ArticlePage.aspx/articleId-163/|title=Hamasaki Ayumi against the Music|publisher=YesAsia|date=April 8, 2008|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref> Writing for AllMusic, Neil Z. Yeung said the record features more "mature content and thrilling genre experimentation". He also noted that the second half of the record has a more "midtempo fare...".<ref name="AllMusic"/> Michael McCarthy from ''Lollipop Magazine'' noted the variety of sounds and emotional presence from Hamasaki, writing that each track "fits together nicely."<ref name="Lollipop"/> The album was produced by long-time collaborator Max Matsuura, and all songs were written by Hamasaki. Tasuku, CMJK, Hal, Dai Nagao (under the alias D.A.I.) and Naoto Suzuki are among the composers and arrangers on the album, while Hamasaki is credited as a composer on ten of the songs.<ref name="IAm">{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-17037}}</ref>
The album begins with the midtempo title track, opening with acapella and progresses with guitar riffs.<ref name="CDJournal">{{cite web|url=https://artist.cdjournal.com/d/i-am/3201110955|title=Ayumi Hamasaki - I Am...|magazine=CDJournal|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref name="Lollipop"/> "Opening Run" is one of two interludes, and its composition incorporates a breakbeat-inspired sound.<ref name="AllMusic"/> "Connected" was produced by Dutch DJ Ferry Corsten, and incorporates a fast trance-inspired beat.<ref name="AllMusic"/><ref name="CDJournal"/> "Unite!" and "Evolution" are two fast-paced rock songs with keyboard and piano instrumentation, respectively, while "Naturally" has a "melancholic melody."<ref name="CDJournal"/> "Never Ever" is a fast-paced rock song with a guitar solo, while "Still Alone" is a slower rock-influenced track.<ref name="AllMusic"/><ref name="CDJournal"/>
"Daybreak" is composed differently than its single release, opting for a mid-tempo rock sound, while "Taskinlude" is the second of two interludes featured on the album.<ref name="CDJournal"/> "M" is a "emotionally impactful" song, with the title "M" standing for Maria.<ref name="AllMusic"/><ref name="CDJournal"/> A solo version of "A Song Is Born" was included on ''I Am...,'' omitting guest vocals by Globe lead vocalist Keiko from the single release.<ref name="IAm"/><ref name="ASongIsBorn">{{cite AV media notes|title=A Song is Born|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30329}}</ref> "Dearest" and "No More Words" are slow ballads with different instrumentation, while an alternate version of "Endless Sorrow" titled "Gone With the Wind" was included on the album; a hidden track titled "Flower Garden" is placed at the end of "Endless Sorrow".<ref name="CDJournal"/><ref name="IAm"/>
==Release and artwork== {{Quote box |quote = "I had a completely different idea for the cover at first. We'd already reserved the space, decided the hair and makeup and everything. But after the incident, as is typical of me, I suddenly changed my mind. I knew it wasn't the time for gaudiness, for elaborate sets and costumes. It sounds odd coming from me, but I realize what I say and how I look has a great impact."<ref name="TimeInterview"/> |source =—Hamasaki talking about the photoshoot for ''I Am...''. |width = 30% |align = right }} ''I Am...'' was released on January 1, 2002, her fourth studio album overall.<ref name="IAm"/> The album contains 16 songs totalling over 70 minutes in length, and was released in various countries in Asia, with Avex Trax releasing it in China, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, and S.M. Entertainment releasing it in South Korea.<ref name="IAm2">Citations regarding the international formats of ''I Am...'': *{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2005|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (China)|id=AVTCD-95550/B}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (Hong Kong)|id=AVTCD-95550}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (Indonesia)|id=AV 0181002}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (South Korea)|id=SMJTCD018}} </ref> In 2012, the album was reissued by Avex Trax in a Playbutton format.<ref name="IAm3">{{cite AV media notes|title=I Am...|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (South Korea)|id=AQZD-50668}}</ref>
The album title ''I am...'' reflects Hamasaki’s intention to present her unfiltered self.<ref name="freak"/> She also linked it to themes of individuality, contrasting with what she described as an era of “faceless people” lacking uniqueness.<ref name="freak"/> She emphasized the importance of leaving one’s “face” (individuality) in creative works.<ref name="freak"/> The ellipsis (“...”) in the title was meant to prompt listeners to reflect on their own identity (“I am… what?”).<ref name="freak"/> {{Quote box |quote = "Since the title is ''I am...'', I didn’t want anything too decorated from the start. I thought it would be better to keep it simple, without unnecessary elements. So I went for a 'natural' feel."<ref name="freak"/> |source =—Hamasaki talking about the album cover for ''I Am...''. |width = 30% |align = left }} Toru Kumazawa shot the album cover and photoshoot, which Hamasaki described as having a "darker" vibe than her previous work with him. However, in light of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the subsequent shift in musical direction, she arranged for another shoot with Kumazawa.<ref name="TimeInterview"/> The finished piece depicted Hamasaki in an outfit covered in leaves and vines, with a dove perched on his shoulder to convey a symbolic message of peace and hope..<ref name="IAm"/><ref name="TimeInterview"/> She described the overall vibe of the photoshoot as a "peace muse".<ref name="TimeInterview"/> The cover was intentionally kept simple and natural, avoiding decoration. Hamasaki associated “natural” with an image of the Earth at the time of creation — peaceful and unspoiled.<ref name="freak"/>
==Promotion== ===Singles and other songs=== Eight singles were released in Japan to promote ''I Am...''. "M" was released the album's lead single on December 13, 2000, through Avex Trax.<ref name="M"/> The song peaked at number one on the Oricon Singles Chart, and was certified million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) for exceeding one million unit shipments.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/410880/1/|title=M - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref name="riaj_2001_02"/> The albums second single, "Evolution", was released on January 31, 2001, through Avex Trax.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Evolution|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2000|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30197}}</ref> It peaked at number one on the Oricon Singles Chart, and was also certified million in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/413533/1/|title=Evolution - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年2月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. February 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_04.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=April 10, 2001 |volume=497 |page=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117063934/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_04.pdf |archive-date=January 17, 2014 |access-date=January 17, 2014}}</ref> "Never Ever" was released as the albums third single by Avex Trax on March 7, 2001.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Never Ever|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30254}}</ref> The song peaked at number one on the Oricon Singles Chart, and was certified double platinum for exceeding shipments of 500,000 units.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/434649/1/|title=Never Ever - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年4月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. April 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_06.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=November 10, 2001 |volume=499 |page=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117062551/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_06.pdf |archive-date=January 17, 2014 |access-date=January 17, 2014}}</ref> "Endless Sorrow" was released as the albums fourth single on May 16, 2001, and peaked at number one on the Oricon Singles Chart, achieving a double platinum certification in the country.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Endless Sorrow|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30254}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/439329/1/|title=Endless Sorrow - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年5月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. June 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_7.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=August 10, 2001 |volume=500 |page=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103051513/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_7.pdf |archive-date=November 3, 2013 |access-date=January 22, 2014}}</ref>
The album's fifth single, "Unite!", was released on July 7, 2001, through Avex Trax.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Unite!|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30275}}</ref> It was her 23rd single released and the sixth single released in Germany.{{citation needed|date=December 2024}} It peaked at number one in the country, and was certified Platinum for exceeding sales of 400,000 units.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/449454/1/|title=Unite! - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年7月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. July 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_9.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=September 10, 2001 |volume=502 |page=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308175506/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_9.pdf |archive-date=March 8, 2012 |access-date=January 22, 2014}}</ref> "Dearest" was released as the sixth single on September 27, 2001, and peaked at number one in Japan.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Dearest|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2001|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30294}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/458083/1/|title=Dearest - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref> Additionally, the track received a double platinum certification in the region.<ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年10月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. October 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_12.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=January 10, 2002 |volume=505 |page=17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122030745/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2001/2001_12.pdf |archive-date=January 22, 2014 |access-date=January 22, 2014}}</ref> "A Song Is Born", featuring Globe vocalist Keiko, served as a charity record to the ''Song Nation'' soundtrack in order to help raise funds for the victims of the September 11 attacks.<ref name="ASongIsBorn"/> The song peaked at number one in Japan, and was certified Platinum in the region.<ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2001年12月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. December 2001 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200202.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=February 10, 2002 |volume=507 |page=12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016074804/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200202.pdf |archive-date=October 16, 2013 |access-date=January 22, 2014}}</ref> "Daybreak" was released as the albums eighth and final regional single on March 6, 2002.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Daybreak|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVCD-30348}}</ref> It peaked at number two on the Oricon Singles Chart, achieving a gold certification for shipment of 200,000 units in the country.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/473136/1/|title=Daybreak - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 14, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2002年3月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. March 2002 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200205.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=May 10, 2002 |volume=510 |page=12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140117061452/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200205.pdf |archive-date=January 17, 2014 |access-date=January 17, 2014}}</ref>
A few songs on ''I Am...'' were remixed and released in different regions outside of Japan. "M" was the first remix single released under the pseudonym Ayu. It was re-released in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, complete with a music video featuring the remix version by Above & Beyond.<ref name="M2">Citations regarding the international formats of ''M'': *{{cite AV media notes|title=M|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (Japan)|id=AVJK-3040/1}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=M|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (United Kingdom)|id=AVJK-3040/1}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=M|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Drizzly (Germany)|id=DRIZ3002-CD}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=M|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Electropolis (Spain)|id=VLMX 1607-3}}</ref> The Razor's Club mix of "Evolution" was released on vinyl in the United States in August 2001.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Evolution|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax (United States)|id=AVA-7}}</ref> "Connected" was released in 2002 as a stand-alone single in Germany and Belgium, and featured various remixes.<ref name="Connected">Citations regarding the international formats of ''Connected'': *{{cite AV media notes|title=Connected|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Drizzly (Germany)|id=DRIZ3001}} *{{cite AV media notes|title=Connected|others=Ayu|year=2002|type=liner notes|publisher=Lightening Records (Belgium)|id=2-02-091}}</ref> Two CD single's featuring remixes of the album track "Naturally" and the single "Unite!" were issued in Germany, Austria and Switzerland in 2004 and 2005, respectively.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Naturally (Wippenberg Remixes)|others=Ayu|year=2004|type=liner notes|publisher=Drizzly|id=DRIZ3004-CD}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Unite!|others=Ayu|year=2005|type=liner notes|publisher=Drizzly|id=DRIZ3008-CD}}</ref>
===Concert tours=== Hamasaki embarked on three different concert tours in Japan to promote ''I Am...''. The first was her 2001-2002 Countdown Live debut on December 31, 2001 at Tokyo's National Yoyogi Stadium First Gymnasium. The show, which featured various album tracks, was filmed and released in conjunction with Hamasaki's box set ''Ayumi Hamasaki Complete Live Box A'' (2003).<ref name="Countdown">{{cite AV media notes|title=Ayumi Hamasaki Complete Live Box|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2003|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVBD-91141}}</ref> Her 2002 Arena Tour began in her home prefecture of Fukuoka in April 2002 and ended in Yokohama in June of that year. On January 29, 2003, a live release was made available.<ref name="Arena">{{cite AV media notes|title=Ayumi Hamasaki Arena Tour 2002|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2003|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVBD-91118}}</ref> Her 2002 Stadium Tour began in Fukuoka in early July 2002 and ended in Tokyo at the end of the month. A live release, like its predecessor, was released on the same date of January 29, 2003.<ref name="Stadium">{{cite AV media notes|title=Ayumi Hamasaki Stadium Tour 2002|others=Ayumi Hamasaki|year=2003|type=liner notes|publisher=Avex Trax|id=AVBD-91119}}</ref>
{{hidden | headercss = background: #ccccff; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | contentcss = text-align: left; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | header = ''2001-2002 Countdown Live'' track list<ref name="Countdown"/> | content = # "Opening Run" # "Connected" # "Unite!" # "Surreal" # "Never Ever" # "Fly High" # "Boys & Girls" # "Evolution" # "A Song Is Born" # "Audience" # "Dearest" # "Endless Sorrow" {{small|(Gone with the Wind Ver.)}} }} {{hidden | headercss = background: #ccccff; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | contentcss = text-align: left; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | header = ''Ayumi Hamasaki Arena Tour 2002'' track list<ref name="Arena"/> | content = # "I Am..." # "Opening Run" # "Naturally" # "Never Ever" # "A Song for xx" # "Free & Easy" # "Evolution" # "Audience" # "Unite!" # "Independent" # "Flower Garden" # "Trauma" # "No More Words" # "M" # "Dearest" # "Daybreak" {{small|(Bonus track)}} # "Who..." {{small|(Bonus track)}} }} {{hidden | headercss = background: #ccccff; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | contentcss = text-align: left; font-size: 100%; width: 60%; | header = ''Ayumi Hamasaki Stadium Tour 2002'' track list<ref name="Stadium"/> | content = # "Unite!" # "Fly High" # "Evolution" # "Medley" {{small|("Whatever", "Too Late", "Monochrome", "End Roll", "Depend on You", "Vogue")}} # "July 1st" # "Independent" # "Free & Easy" # "M" # "Surreal" # "Hanabi" # "Boy & Girls" # "Audience" # "A Song Is Born" # "Flower Garden" # "Trauma" # "Who..." # "Seasons" {{small|(Bonus track)}} }}
==Reception== {{Music ratings | rev1 = AllMusic | rev1Score = {{rating|4.5|5}}<ref name="AllMusic"/> | rev2 = ''Lollipop Magazine'' | rev2Score = (positive)<ref name="Lollipop"/> }}
''I Am...'' received positive reviews from music critics. Neil Z. Yeung of AllMusic gave the album four and a half stars, calling it one of Hamasaki's best works. Z. Yeung praised Hamasaki's songwriting abilities and overall emotional presence, citing "M" as an example, and stated that she was back "in full force."<ref name="AllMusic"/> He chose the title track, "Connected," "Evolution," and "M" as album highlights.<ref name="AllMusic"/> Michael McCarthy from ''Lollipop'' expresses similar sentiments about Hamasaki's involvement and emotional presence, stating "when she sings ballads, Hamasaki’s delivery is intense and emotional and the music is never generic... Yet all of these songs, which Hamasaki wrote and composed herself, fit together nicely."<ref name="Lollipop"/>
Commercially, ''I Am...'' was a huge success. ''I Am...'' was the first album of 2002 to top the Oricon Albums Chart, marking Hamasaki's fourth consecutive studio album to do so.<ref name="Oricon1">{{cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/246497/products/464205/1/|title=I Am... - Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=Oricon|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 13, 2023}}</ref> The album sold 1,751,360 units in its first week, setting a record for the year's fastest-selling album until it was surpassed several months later by Japanese singer Hikaru Utada's album ''Deep River''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020114a.html|title=2002.1.14付 アルバムTOP20|publisher=Oricon (published via GeoCities)|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 13, 2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303205242/http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020114a.html|archivedate=March 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020701a.html|title=2002.7.1付 アルバムTOP20|publisher=Oricon (published via GeoCities)|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 4, 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328024501/http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020701a.html|archivedate=March 28, 2019}}</ref> It stayed at number two for the next two weeks, logging sales of 186,780 copies in its second charting week and 104,780 copies in its third week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020121a.html|title=2002.1.21付 アルバムTOP20|publisher=Oricon (published via GeoCities)|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 30, 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310182600/http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020121a.html|archivedate=March 10, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020128a.html|title=2002.1.28付 アルバムTOP20|publisher=Oricon (published via GeoCities)|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 30, 2024|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311015029/http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/020128a.html|archivedate=March 11, 2016}}</ref> ''I Am...'' spent a total of six weeks in the top ten and 27 weeks in the top 300 on the chart.<ref name="Oricon1"/> By the end of the year, it was the country's second best-selling record, just behind ''Deep Diver,'' with over 2.3 million units sold.<ref name="Yearly">{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/2002a.html|title=2002年 アルバム年間TOP100|publisher=Oricon (published via GeoCities)|language=Japanese|accessdate=December 13, 2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427111348/http://www.geocities.jp/object_ori/2002a.html|archivedate=April 27, 2015}}</ref> The album was certified double million by the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) for shipments of two million units.<ref>{{cite journal |title=GOLD ALBUM 他認定作品 2002年1月度 |trans-title=Gold Albums, and other certified works. January 2002 Edition |url=http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200203.pdf |journal=The Record |type=Bulletin |language=ja |location=Chūō, Tokyo |publisher=Recording Industry Association of Japan |publication-date=March 10, 2002 |volume=508 |page=12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116130742/http://www.riaj.or.jp/issue/record/2002/200203.pdf |archive-date=January 16, 2014 |access-date=January 22, 2014}}</ref> In Taiwan, the album was certified by the Recording Industry Foundation in Taiwan (RIT), and sold 114,413 units in the region.<ref name="RIT">{{cite web | title=認證紀錄/Certifications Awarded | url=http://www.rit.org.tw/index.php/our-business/2-6platimun-award/2-6-4certifications-awarded| publisher=Recording Industry Foundation in Taiwan | access-date=January 30, 2022}}</ref> Since its release, ''I am...'' has ranked as the fifty-fifth best selling album of all time in Japan.<ref name="ALLTIME">{{cite web | url=http://www.musictvprogram.com/corner-ranking-album.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120103001458/http://www.musictvprogram.com/corner-ranking-album.html | archive-date=January 3, 2012 | title=歴代アルバムランキング }}</ref>
==Track listing== {{tracklist | collapsed = | headline = | all_lyrics = Ayumi Hamasaki | extra_column = Arranger(s) | title1 = I Am... | note1 = | music1 = Ayumi Hamasaki<ref group=Note name=Crea/> | extra1 = Tadashi Kikuchi | length1 = 5:31 | title2 = Opening Run | note2 = Instrumental | music2 = CMJK | extra2 = CMJK | length2 = 0:57 | title3 = Connected | note3 = | music3 = Ferry Corsten | extra3 = Corsten | length3 = 3:19 | title4 = Unite! | note4 = | music4 = Hamasaki | extra4 = Hal | length4 = 4:59 | title5 = Evolution | note5 = | music5 = Hamasaki | extra5 = Hal | length5 = 4:40 | title6 = Naturally | note6 = | music6 = Hamasaki | extra6 = CMJK | length6 = 4:16 | title7 = Never Ever | note7 = | music7 = Hamasaki | extra7 = Chokkaku | length7 = 4:40 | title8 = Still Alone | note8 = | music8 = Hamasaki | extra8 = CMJK | length8 = 5:54 | title9 = Daybreak | note9 = | music9 = {{hlist|Hamasaki,|D.A.I|Junichi Matsuda}} | extra9 = Tasuku | length9 = 4:48 | title10 = Taskinlude | note10 = Instrumental | music10 = Tasuku | extra10 = Tasuku | length10 = 1:20 | title11 = M | note11 = | music11 = Hamasaki | extra11 = Hal | length11 = 4:26 | title12 = A Song Is Born | note12 = | music12 = Tetsuya Komuro | extra12 = Komuro | length12 = 6:16 | title13 = Dearest | note13 = | music13 = {{hlist|Hamasaki|D.A.I.}} | extra13 = Naoto Suzuki | length13 = 5:32 | title14 = No More Words | note14 = | music14 = {{hlist|Hamasaki|D.A.I.}} | extra14 = {{hlist|Suzuki|Tasuki}} | length14 = 5:41 | title15 = Endless Sorrow | note15 = Gone with the Wind ver. | music15 = Hamasaki | extra15 = CMJK | length15 = 5:12 | title16 = Flower Garden | note16 = hidden track | music16 = {{hlist|Hamasaki|D.A.I.}} | extra16 = | length16 = 2:38 }}
==Personnel== Personnel details were sourced from ''I Am...'''s liner notes booklet.<ref name="IAm"/>
'''Visuals and imagery''' {{div col begin}} * Sinichi Hara - art direction * Shingeru Kasai - packaging * Naoki Ueda - creative coordinator * Shinuchi Takahashi - quality control * Toru Kumazawa - photographer {{div col end}}
'''Musicians''' {{div col begin}} * Kiyofumi Onoda - bass * Kiku - guitar, keyboards * CMJK - guitar, keyboards * Hal - Keyboards * Naoya Akimoto - guitar * Chokkaku - guitar, keyboards * Tasuku - bass, guitar, keyboards * Tetsuya Komuro - arrangement * Junko Hirotani - backing vocals * Naoki Hayashibe - guitar {{div col end}}
'''Technical and production''' {{div col begin}} * Ayumi Hamasaki - composer * Tadashi Kikuchi - arrangement * Tasuku - arrangement * Yasuyuki Tomita - A&R * Hiroaki Ito - coordinators * Kazuki Muraishi - coordinators * Noritoshi Fujimoto - coordinators * Shigeru Kajita - coordinators * Yumi Kobayashi - coordinators * Atsushi Yamamoto - engineer * Ryosuke Kataoka - engineer * Takayuki Furuta - engineer * Taketoshi Nakauchi - engineer * Yukie Sugimoto - engineer * Yutaka Yamamoto - engineer * Atsushi Hattori - audio mixer * Ferry Corsten - audio mixer, producer, composer * Koji Morimoto - audio mixer * Noriki Inada - audio mixer * Satoshi Kumasaka - audio mixer * Yasuo Matsumoto - audio mixer * Yuka Akiyama - production assistant * Naoto Suzuki - sound producer * Atsushi Hattori - recording assistant * Motohiro Tsuji - recording assistant * Noriki Inada - recording assistant * Satoshi Kumasaka - recording assistant * D.A.I. - composer * Junichi Matsuda - composer {{div col end}}
==Charts== {{col-begin}} {{col-2}} ===Weekly charts=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" !Chart (2002) !Peak<br />position |- !scope="row"|Japanese Albums (Oricon)<ref name="Oricon1"/> | style="text-align:center;"|1 |- ! scope="row"| Singaporean Albums (RIAS)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rias.org.sg/chart.html|title=RIAS Regional Album Rankings|access-date=April 6, 2024|archive-date=February 4, 2002|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020204175511/http://www.rias.org.sg/chart.html|publisher=RIAS|url-status=dead}}</ref> | align="center" | 3 |} ===Monthly charts=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" !Chart (2002) !Peak<br>position |- !scope="row"|Japanese Albums (Oricon)<ref name="monthly">{{cite web|url=http://www.geocities.jp/darusta2004/rank/2002/jan.html|title=2002 1月売上ランキング|access-date=2010-09-24|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140329041500/http://www.geocities.jp/darusta2004/rank/2002/jan.html|archive-date=2014-03-29}}</ref> | style="text-align:center;"| 1 |} {{col-2}}
===Year-end charts=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" !Chart (2002) !Position |- !scope="row"|Japanese Albums (Oricon)<ref name="Yearly"/> | style="text-align:center;"|2 |- |}
===Decade-end charts=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" !Chart (2000–2009) !Position |- !scope="row"|Japanese Albums (Oricon)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://amigo.lovepop.jp/decade_a2000.html |title=2000年代アルバム売上ランキング |language=ja |access-date=August 17, 2024}}</ref> | style="text-align:center;"|17 |- |} ===All-time chart=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" !Chart !Position |- !scope="row"|Japanese Albums (Oricon)<ref name="ALLTIME"/> | style="text-align:center;"|55 |} {{col-end}}
== Certifications == {{Certification Table Top}} {{Certification Table Entry |region=Japan|artist=Ayumi Hamasaki|title=I Am|type=album|award=Million|number=2|refname="Certification"|relyear=2002|certyear=2002|certmonth=3|salesamount=2,308,112|salesref=<ref>{{cite web | title=オリコンランキング情報サービス「you大樹」 |trans-title=Oricon Ranking Information Service 'You Big Tree' | url=http://ranking.oricon.co.jp |language=ja | work=Oricon |url-access=subscription | access-date=May 21, 2014}}</ref>|access-date=December 14, 2023}} {{Certification Table Entry|region=Taiwan|type=album|title=I Am|artist=Ayumi Hamasaki|award=Platinum+Gold|number=3|salesamount=114,413|refname=Taiwan|salesref=<ref name=Taiwan/>}} {{table end}}
==Release history== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" |- !scope="col"|Region !scope="col"|Date !scope="col"|Format !scope="col"|Label |- !scope="row"|Japan<ref name="IAm"/> |rowspan="2"|January 1, 2002 |{{hlist|CD|DVD|digital download}} |rowspan="5"|Avex Trax |- !scope="row"|Worldwide<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/jp/album/i-am/1144913122|title=I Am... by Ayumi Hamasaki|publisher=iTunes Store|accessdate=December 13, 2023}}</ref> |Digital download |- !scope="row"|China<ref name="IAm2"/> |rowspan="4"|January 2002 |rowspan="4"|CD |- !scope="row"|Hong Kong<ref name="IAm2"/> |- !scope="row"|Indonesia<ref name="IAm2"/> |- !scope="row"|South Korea<ref name="IAm2"/> |SM Entertainment |- !scope="row"|Japan<ref name="IAm3"/> |2012 |Playbutton |Avex Trax |- |}
==See also== *List of Oricon number-one albums of 2002
==Notes== {{Reflist|group=Note|refs= <ref name=Crea>Crea is the pseudonym of Ayumi Hamasaki.</ref> }}
==References== {{Reflist|2}}
{{Ayumi Hamasaki}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:2002 albums Category:Ayumi Hamasaki albums Category:Avex Group albums Category:2000s Japanese-language albums