Ryuichi Sakamoto: Oscar-Winning Composer and Yellow Magic Orchestra Co-F

Ryuichi Sakamoto was a Japanese composer, pianist and record producer who moved fluidly between electronic pop, film scores and avant-garde music. Born on January 17, 1952, in Tokyo, he became one of the most influential musicians in Asia and the world.

Sakamoto co-founded the pioneering electronic band Yellow Magic Orchestra in 1978 with Haruomi Hosono and Yukihiro Takahashi. He won the Academy Award for Best Original Score for The Last Emperor in 1987, becoming the first Japanese composer to win an Oscar, and shared a Grammy for the same soundtrack. He won a Golden Globe for the score to The Sheltering Sky in 1990.

Sakamoto was married to Akiko Yano and later to Norika Sora, and was the father of musician Miu Sakamoto. He spoke publicly about his battle with cancer and continued to compose until the end of his life. He died in Tokyo on March 28, 2023, at age 71, with the news announced days later. Remembered for his curiosity and his gentle piano pieces, he left a vast catalog.

Achievements: Co-founded Yellow Magic Orchestra (1978), won the Academy Award for The Last Emperor score (1987), shared a Grammy for the same film (1987), won a Golden Globe for The Sheltering Sky (1990).

Birth: January 17, 1952 - Tokyo, Japan.

Profession: Composer, pianist, record producer and actor.

Interesting Facts: His 1980 track "Riot in Lagos" is considered a milestone of electro music that influenced hip hop. He also acted in Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, for which he wrote the score.