On New Years Day 2002 , Hamasaki released her fourth studio album '' I Am ... '' from Avex Trax . The album saw a new direction for Hamasaki , whose first three studio albums was dominated by a pop rock sound , and lyrics based on loneliness , confusion , sadness , relationships and individualism . The result was not well-received from critics , who felt the effort was " unassuming " , particularly on her debut release '' A Song for × × '' ( 1999 ) . After being affected emotionally by the September 11 attacks , Hamasaki quickly changed the album 's planned musical direction , and updated the album cover to support world peace . This effort was Hamasaki 's first album to focus on lighter themes , such as faith , humanity and serenity . '' I Am ... '' became a success and sold over 2.3 million copies in Japan , and was certified triple million by the RIAJ
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
H (Ayumi Hamasaki EP)