Kokia (singer)

Kokia (stylized as KOKIA; born Akiko Yoshida on July 22, 1976) is a Japanese singer-songwriter. Her music spans various genres, including pop, classical, and traditional folk influences. She is known for her powerful and emotive vocals, often described as operatic or angelic.

Kokia debuted in 1998 with the single "For Little Tail." She gained wider recognition with the release of the songs "Arigatou..." (Thank you...) and "Kawaranai Koto ~Since 1976~" in 1999.

Her music has been featured in various anime series, video games, and films, contributing to her international popularity. Notable examples include her songs appearing in Gunslinger Girl -Il Teatrino- and Origin: Spirits of the Past.

Kokia writes and composes most of her own material and often incorporates multiple languages into her songs, including Japanese, English, Irish, and Latin. She has released numerous studio albums and singles throughout her career. Kokia continues to tour and record new music, maintaining a dedicated fanbase both in Japan and internationally. Her lyrics often explore themes of peace, love, and environmental awareness.