Global Group YMO's Yukihiro Takahashi Passes Away at 70 Years Old

Global Fame of Ryuichi Sakamoto and Synthpop Trio YMO Through Their Activities

Yukihiro Takahashi.
Photo by Arama! japan

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Yukihiro Takahashi (高橋幸宏), a representative musician and multi-entertainer of Japan, has passed away at the age of 70.

On the 14th, local media including Nihon Keizai reported that Takahashi, who had been recuperating after brain tumor surgery in 2020, recently died due to pneumonia as his health deteriorated. The cause of death is known to be brain cancer.

Takahashi gained worldwide fame as a member of the electronic trio YMO (Yellow Magic Orchestra), which he formed in 1978 with Ryuichi Sakamoto and Haruomi Hosono. During Japan's economic boom, YMO's "Rydeen," composed by Takahashi, had a significant influence on techno-pop worldwide.

Before YMO, Takahashi was active in bands such as Sadistic Mika Band and also showcased diverse music as a solo artist. He was a drummer and singer, as well as a writer and actor, thriving as a multi-entertainer.

After brain tumor surgery, the late Takahashi devoted himself to recuperation in Karuizawa. It is known that last September he was preparing a 50th debut anniversary concert to meet his fans. Although the concert was held, Takahashi was unable to take the stage due to his deteriorating health.

Ryuichi Sakamoto, who worked with the late Takahashi in YMO, has also been battling cancer since being diagnosed with colorectal cancer last year.

Survived by his wife Kiyomi Takahashi, his older brother and music producer Nobuyuki Takahashi, and his older sister and fashion marketer Mie Ito.