Aiko, born in 1975, emerged as a prominent figure in J-pop during the early and mid-2000s. Graduating from Osaka College of Music, she began her music career by debuting in 1997 with the EP Astral Box. Aiko achieved commercial success with her second studio album, Sakura No Ki No Shita (2000), which topped the charts and sold over one million units. She made multiple appearances on the popular New Year's TV show Kohaku Uta Gassen and released several successful albums and singles throughout the early 2000s.
Despite facing health challenges in 2001, Aiko continued to produce music that resonated with audiences. Her albums Natsufuku (2001), Aki, Soba Ni Iru Yo (2002), and Akatsuki No Love Letter (2003) collectively sold over one million copies. Aiko's career continued with successful releases such as Yume No Naka No Massugu Na Michi (2005) and Kanojo (2006), which topped the charts. While her eighth studio album, Himitsu, experienced a decline in sales, Aiko remained a significant presence in the J-pop scene.