TOKYO – Ryuichi Sakamoto was one of the most influential and versatile composers of our time. He created music that spanned genres, cultures, and media, from electronic pop to classical symphonies, from film scores to environmental soundscapes. He collaborated with artists such as David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Madonna, and Youssou N’Dour, and won numerous awards, including an Oscar, a Grammy, and a Golden Globe.

But Sakamoto was not only a musical genius, he was also a passionate advocate for peace and environmental issues. He spoke out against nuclear weapons and nuclear power, especially after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. He supported various causes such as human rights, animal welfare, and climate change. He donated his music and his money to charities and organizations that aligned with his values.

Sakamoto passed away yesterdy, on April 3rd, at the age of 70, after a long battle with cancer. He left behind a legacy of artistic excellence and social consciousness that will inspire generations to come. He once said: “Music is not something that you can express in words. Music is something that you feel with your body and soul.”

(Photo: Asahi Shimbun)