Academy Award-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto passed away Tuesday after a battle with cancer on the age of 71.
The composer, who was born in Tokyo in 1952, is thought widely for his Oscar-winning rating for the 1987 film “The Last Emperor” and his involvement within the 2015 film “The Revenant.”
He also won the BAFTA award for Best Rating in 1984 for the film “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence.”
Sakamoto’s management company, Common, confirmed his death Sunday in a press release on Twitter.
“We’re deeply saddened to announce the passing of artist and musician, Ryuichi Sakamoto, on the twenty eighth of March, 2023, he was 71 years old, read the corporate’s statement. “While undergoing treatment for cancer discovered in June 2020, Sakamoto continued to create works in his home studio each time his health would allow.”
“He lived with music until the very end. We would really like to precise our deepest gratitude to his fans and all those that have supported his activities, in addition to the medical professionals in Japan and the U.S. who did all the pieces of their power to cure him,” continued the statement.
“In accordance with Sakamoto’s strong wishes, the funeral service was held amongst his close relations.”
The statement concludes with the management company asking for fans to respect his family’s privacy and that is not going to be accepting any condolence calls.
Common also included one in every of Sakamoto’s favorite quotes.
“Art is long, life is brief.”
The music pioneer revealed in 2014 that he had been diagnosed with throat cancer and said a yr later that he “was in great shape.”
“Forgive me if this sounds corny,” wrote the late musician. “However the illness brought me a realization, which I’m truly thankful for. It truly is an indication from nature or heaven.”
“Taking this sign, I’ll make certain to avoid my old habits and treat my days left with the utmost care,” he added.
In 2021, Sakamoto said that his cancer had indeed returned.
“Any longer, I might be living alongside cancer,” wrote Sakamoto in a press release. “But, I’m hoping to make music for slightly while longer.”
Sakamoto’s former bandmate, Yukihiro Takahashi, also died this yr, succumbing to a brain tumor in Jan. 2023.
Each were a part of the influential electronic group Yellow Magic Orchestra, who helped popularize the genre within the late Seventies.
