Miku’s shared the world with all of her fans, and now the world’s decided to share something with her.
Yesterday, digital diva Hatsune Miku celebrated her ninth birthday. You read that right. It’s been nine full years since Crypton Future Media released the first version of Hatsune Miku’s Vocaloid software on August 31, 2007. She was to be the initial entry into the “Character Vocal Series.”
Miku was built using Yamaha’s Vocaloid 2 technology, by taking vocal samples from actress Saki Fujita. Each sample contains a single phonic sound, which was then altered by the engine to work with the software’s built-in instruments.
Since her début, Miku’s gone on to become a modern day Sharon Apple with emerald locks. Her legion of fans is massive, as is her list of collaborations which includes names like Supercell and Lady Gaga.
Miku’s performed at sold-out concerts across the globe, and songs like World is Mine and Senbonzakura have become instant hits in the fan community. She’s been the cover girl for fashion lines, been featured in art exhibitions, and even served as a guest star on Late Night With David Letterman. That’s not to mention the massive presence at the Sapporo Snow Festival each year.
In short, Hatsune Miku’s a cultural icon.
It only seems natural that such a character would be met with a grand celebration on her birthday. On that end, people didn’t disappoint. Crypton kicked off the fun by releasing Hatsune Miku V4X, the latest version of the digital idol’s software.
Fans who picked up Hatsune Miku: Project Diva X for the PlayStation 4 and Vita were also greeted with a short scene to mark the day:
In the fan community, artists of all stripes stepped up to craft incredible works of art, and YouTubers crafted loving tributes to the digital diva. We’ve collected our favorites below. If there’s a piece we missed, or one that you feel deserves a highlight, let us know in the comments!
Fan Art
YouTube Videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJ9FWFd6maE
