| "Hero" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
&sq=Envato&lang=en&file=File:Namieamuroherocdanddvd.png) CD and DVD cover artwork. | ||||
| Single by Namie Amuro | ||||
| from the album Finally | ||||
| B-side | "Show Me What You've Got" | |||
| Released | July 27, 2016 | |||
| Recorded | 2016 | |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 5:37 | |||
| Label |
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| Songwriter(s) | Ryosuke Imai | |||
| Producer(s) | Sunny Boy | |||
| Namie Amuro singles chronology | ||||
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| Music video | ||||
| "Hero"(Music Video) on YouTube "Hero"(NHK Official Music Video) on YouTube | ||||
"Hero" is a song by Japanese recording artist Namie Amuro. It was released as a stand-alone single on July 27, 2016 by Avex Trax and Amuro’s own label Dimension Point; it was distributed physically in Japan and Taiwan, and digitally worldwide. The song was written by Ryosuke Imai and Sunny Boy, whilst production and composing was handled by the latter collaborator. Originally slated to appear as a B-side track to her previous single "Mint", it served as the official Japanese theme song to the 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, broadcast by the NHK. Alongside this, a B-side track titled "Show Me What You’ve Got" appeared on the release of "Hero".
Musically, "Hero" is a pop song that incorporates elements of dance music. It is an empowerment anthem, while the lyrical content focuses on themes such as courage, triumph, and faith; the title of the track is a reference to the competitors at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Upon its release, "Hero" received positive reviews from music critics, who commended the lyrical content and production of the track. Critics also praised its empowerment and its inclusion as a theme song for the Olympics.
Commercially, the single was successful in Japan, peaking at number six on the Oricon Singles Chart, one of her few singles to miss the top five. It performed better on Japan's Billboard charts, peaking at number one on Japan Hot 100 and has since spent 59 weeks on the chart. Digitally, the single has experienced great longevity over time, receiving a triple Platinum certification in April 2018. Six music videos were directed by YKBX, and all visually represent the colours and events of the 2016 Olympics. To promote the single, "Hero" is scheduled to be performed on her 2016–17 Live Style concert tour.