Popular singer Namie Amuro has shocked the world by announcing her plans to retire from the industry next year on September 16th, 2018.

In a letter to her fans, Namie wrote:

Dear all fans:

Thank you very much for your continuous support.

September 16 marked the 25th year since my debut.
I could not have gone 25 years without your support, for which I am
eternally grateful.

Thank you!

Today, I would like to write about something that I have carried on my
mind and have decided on the 25th anniversary of my debut.

I, Namie Amuro, would like to take this opportunity to inform all of my
fans of my decision to retire as of September 16, 2018.

I plan to make the last year of my music career meaningful by focusing
my full attention on creating a final album and performing at concerts.

Then, I will welcome the date of September 16, 2018 in the best way I can.

I hope this year will be filled with wonderful memories for me and the
fans together.

Together, let’s make this coming year the best one possible!

Namie Amuro

Amuro just recently successfully finished two concerts in her native Okinawa, celebrating her 25th anniversary in show business. Her new song titled Showtime will be used as the theme for the Fall TBS Drama series Kangoku no Ohimesama. Additionally, another song called Hope will be used as the opening for the anime series One Piece.

(via facebook)