Ryuichi Sakamoto, the legendary Japanese composer who rose to prominence as a member of the Yellow Magic Orchestra, passed away at the age of 71. In the wake of the announcement, Questlove, Japanese Breakfast, and many other artists shared tributes for the late musician on social media. Sakamoto was initially diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014 but appeared to be doing well for quite some time. In 2021, he announced that the cancer had returned.
“While undergoing treatment for cancer discovered in June 2020, Sakamoto continued to create works in his home studio whenever his health would allow,” Sakamoto’s management, Commmons, wrote in a statement. “He lived with music until the very end. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to his fans and all those who have supported his activities, as well as the medical professionals in Japan and the U.S. who did everything in their power to cure him. In accordance with Sakamoto’s strong wishes, the funeral service was held among his close family members.”
Ryuichi Sakamoto With David Byrne At The Academy Awards
Questlove paid tribute in an Instagram post, writing: “Thank You Ryuichi Sakamoto for your gifts. Sad to see another force leave this planet. Even if he name isn’t familiar his influence on ANY artist you ever tested your b-boy b-girl poppin/lockin/breakdance/electric boogie sites HIM as their god.”
Close friend and collaborator, Alva Noto, also wrote on Twitter: “We will miss you on this side of life. A void is left that I cannot fully grasp at the moment. Our deepest condolences to those who were closest to him.” Japanese Breakfast further remarked, "I am so so sad. What a loss."
Over the course of his career, Sakamoto won an Oscar, a BAFTA, a Grammy, as well as 2 Golden Globe Awards as a film-score composer. He worked on The Last Emperor, The Revenant, Snake Eyes, and more over the years.
Ryuichi Sakamoto Tributes
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