Hamasaki Ayumi's 14th original album, "LOVE again" (released February 8th), has sold 53,000 copies in its first week and has topped Oricon's weekly album chart for February 18th.

Since debuting 14 years and 10 months ago, 20 of Hamasaki's albums have topped the Oricon charts, surpassing B'z who achieved this feat over 17 years and 10 months.

Hamasaki is also the 3rd artist with 20 number 1 albums following Matsutoya Yumi (November 16, 1998 / "Neue Musik") and B'z (July 10, 2006 / "MONSTER"). Among solo artists, she has reduced the gap between Matsutoya Yumi (21 albums) to 1 album.

"I used all my strength for this album. I wanted many people to listen to it, so I'm very happy that many people have supported it. Thank you very much," she expressed. "Being able to set this record, this is all thanks to the fans who have supported me. Since this year marks my 15th year, I want to make this a year that I will be able to create wonderful memories with everyone."

"LOVE again" was the 4th part of Hamasaki's 5-month consecutive release project to commemorate her 15th anniversary on April 8th. It included tracks from her mini-albums, "LOVE" (released November 8th) and "again" (December 8th), as well as brand new songs and 14 music videos.

Source: Oricon