Japanese musicians died at 37

Here are 6 famous musicians from Japan died at 37:

Kenji Miyazawa

Kenji Miyazawa (August 27, 1896 Hanamaki-September 21, 1933 Hanamaki) also known as Miyazawa Kenji was a Japanese novelist, poet, teacher and writer.

Miyazawa is widely regarded as one of the most important literary figures in 20th-century Japan. He experienced a spiritual awakening in his early twenties and went on to incorporate elements of Buddhism, Shintoism, and other Eastern philosophies into his writing. His works often centered around themes of social justice, environmentalism, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Miyazawa's most famous work is his children's book "Night on the Galactic Railroad," which has been adapted into several films and stage productions. Despite his premature death at the age of 37, Miyazawa's contributions to Japanese literature continue to be celebrated and studied to this day.

Miyazawa's legacy extends beyond his literary works, as he was known for his compassion and dedication to helping others. He worked as a teacher in rural areas, where he often used his own money to provide his students with food and clothing. Miyazawa also promoted sustainable agriculture and was an advocate for the use of natural farming methods. In addition, he was a skilled calligrapher and artist, and his artwork is still displayed in museums across Japan. Despite only publishing a small number of works during his lifetime, Miyazawa's impact on Japanese literature and culture is immeasurable, and he remains an inspiration to many artists and writers today.

Miyazawa grew up in a wealthy and influential family, but he chose to live a simple and frugal lifestyle. He was deeply committed to social activism and frequently expressed his distaste for the capitalist system. Miyazawa's personal philosophy, which he called "poetry of life," emphasized the importance of empathy, compassion, and selflessness. His own life embodied these values, and he was beloved by many for his kindness and generosity. After his death, Miyazawa's sister published a collection of his poems and stories, which became an instant classic in Japan. Today, he is widely recognized as one of Japan's greatest writers and cultural icons. His influence can be seen in the works of many modern Japanese writers, as well as in Japanese popular culture more broadly. In addition to "Night on the Galactic Railroad," Miyazawa's other notable works include "Gauche the Cellist," "Matasaburō of the Wind," and "The Restaurant of Many Orders." His writing continues to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds around the world.

Despite his premature death, Miyazawa's impact on various fields continues to be celebrated today. He was not only a literary figure, but also a spiritual leader and activist. In the years following his death, Miyazawa's teachings and ideals inspired a movement known as "Miyazawa Kenji-ism," which emphasized the importance of human connection and the ability to find joy and meaning in everyday life. His Buddhist and Shintoist beliefs, as well as his interest in theosophy, gave him a unique perspective that is reflected in his writing. Miyazawa's influence has extended beyond Japan, with translations of his works now available in multiple languages. He remains an enduring symbol of wisdom, compassion, and artistic expression not only in Japan but around the world.

He died in pneumonia.

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Ichikawa Raizō VIII

Ichikawa Raizō VIII (August 29, 1931 Kyoto-July 17, 1969 Tokyo) also known as Yoshiya Ota, Yoshio Takeuchi, 八代目 市川 雷蔵 Hachidaime Ichikawa Raizō, Yoshiya Ōta, Ichikawa Raizō or Raizô Ichikawa was a Japanese actor.

He was a kabuki actor and also appeared in films and television shows. Ichikawa Raizō VIII was the son of famed kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō XI and started his acting career at age four. He took on the stage name Ichikawa Raizō VIII after his father's death in 1938. He was known for his dynamic performances and his ability to portray a wide range of characters. Some of his notable film appearances include "The Sands of Kurobe", "Samurai Assassin", "Nihon Kyokakuden", and "Hunter in the Dark". He was also a recipient of the Japan Academy Prize for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Tragically, he was diagnosed with rectal carcinoma in 1966 and passed away three years later at the age of 37. Despite his short life, Ichikawa Raizō VIII left a lasting impact on Japanese entertainment and is remembered as one of Japan's greatest actors.

Ichikawa Raizō VIII was lauded for his performances not only in Japan, but also in international film festivals. He won the Best Actor prize at the 1963 Cannes Film Festival for his role in "Youth of the Son". He was also known for his mastery of the mie, a dramatic pose often used in kabuki performances to convey intense emotion. In addition to his acting career, Ichikawa Raizō VIII was a skilled calligrapher and often incorporated his artwork into his performances. He also wrote poetry under the pen name Raizan. After his death, his son, Ichikawa Ebizō XI, followed in his footsteps and became a kabuki actor. In honor of his father, he took on the stage name Ichikawa Raizō IX. To this day, Ichikawa Raizō VIII is revered in Japan as a cultural icon and his legacy continues to inspire performers both on and off the stage.

During his career, Ichikawa Raizō VIII was also appointed as a goodwill ambassador by the Japanese government to promote cultural exchanges with other countries. He traveled to Europe, South America, and the United States to perform kabuki and introduce Japanese culture to international audiences. His performances were greatly appreciated by foreign audiences, and he was recognized as a cultural ambassador of Japan. Ichikawa Raizō VIII was also a philanthropist and actively supported charitable causes. He established the Ichikawa Raizō VIII Memorial Foundation, which provides scholarships to young kabuki actors and supports the preservation of kabuki culture. He is remembered not only for his artistic achievements but also for his humanitarian contributions. Even decades after his death, his iconic performances and contributions to Japanese culture continue to inspire people around the world.

Despite his early passing, Ichikawa Raizō VIII's legacy continues to live on. He has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and even a biographical film titled "Raizo." In addition, his name and image have been featured on various postage stamps, banknotes, and monuments throughout Japan. His influence on Japanese popular culture can also be seen in video games, anime, and manga, where characters are modeled after his distinctive stage presence and persona. Ichikawa Raizō VIII's impact on Japanese entertainment and culture cannot be overstated, and his enduring legacy as one of Japan's greatest actors lives on to this day.

He died as a result of rectal carcinoma.

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Hisatsune Sakomizu

Hisatsune Sakomizu (April 5, 2015 Tokyo City-April 5, 1977) was a Japanese politician.

He served as the Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan from 1945-1946 and also played an important role as a member of the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. After the war, he was one of the key figures involved in Japan's postwar recovery and reconstruction efforts. Throughout his career, he remained committed to a strong and independent Japan, free from foreign influence. His legacy continues to inspire many in Japan to this day.

Sakomizu was born into a prominent samurai family in Tokyo City in 1915. He graduated from the Imperial Japanese Army Academy in 1936 and became an officer in the Imperial Japanese Army. During World War II, he served in various positions, including as a military attaché in Moscow and as a staff officer in the Japanese Army General Staff. He was a strong advocate of the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere, which aimed to expand Japanese control over Asia.

After the war, Sakomizu was imprisoned by the Allies as a Class-A war criminal for his involvement in the war. However, he was eventually released without being prosecuted. He then became involved in politics and was appointed as Chief Cabinet Secretary under Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida. Sakomizu played a key role in implementing the new constitution and in Japan's reconstruction efforts, particularly in the areas of economic and social policy.

Sakomizu was a controversial figure, known for his right-wing views and his belief in Japan's military dominance. He opposed the US-Japan Security Treaty and called for greater military autonomy for Japan. He also advocated for revisions to Japan's constitution to allow for greater military power.

Despite his controversial views, Sakomizu was respected for his dedication to Japan and his contributions to postwar reconstruction. He died in 1977 at the age of 62, but his legacy continues to influence Japanese politics and society to this day.

Sakomizu's contributions to Japan's recovery and reconstruction efforts were not limited to his role in politics. He also served as the president of the Japan Productivity Center and the chairman of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In these positions, he worked to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of Japanese businesses and industries.

In addition to his political and business activities, Sakomizu was also a prolific writer. He authored numerous books and articles on politics, economics, and military strategy. Some of his most notable works include "Japan's National Defense," "The Reminiscences of Chief Cabinet Secretary Sakomizu," and "Memoirs of the General Staff."

Sakomizu's legacy continues to be a subject of debate in Japan. While some view him as a nationalist who glorified Japan's militaristic past, others see him as a dedicated public servant who played a crucial role in Japan's postwar recovery. Regardless of one's opinion of Sakomizu, his contributions to Japan's history and society cannot be ignored.

Despite his controversial stances and involvement in World War II, Sakomizu is still regarded as a hero by some Japanese nationalists. He is remembered as a man who greatly contributed to Japan's postwar resurgence and reinvented Japan as a modern economic power. Many also admire his unwavering commitment to Japanese independence and sovereignty. Today, some politicians continue to cite Sakomizu as a role model and an inspiration for their own political views. Overall, his life and legacy are a complex and significant part of Japan's history.

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Yō Yoshimura

Yō Yoshimura (July 10, 1954 Kyoto Prefecture-November 27, 1991) a.k.a. Yo Yoshimura was a Japanese voice actor.

Yoshimura started his voice acting career in the late 1970s and became famous for his roles in anime series such as "Mobile Suit Gundam" where he voiced the character of Gaia, and "Space Battleship Yamato III" where he played the character of Akira Yamamoto. He was known for his versatile voice and could play a variety of roles ranging from young boys to adults. Apart from voice acting, Yoshimura was also a talented singer and released several albums in the 80s. At the time of his death in 1991, he was only 37 years old, and his sudden demise was a great loss to the Japanese entertainment industry.

In addition to his roles in anime, Yo Yoshimura also lent his voice to video games. He played the character of Sergeant Doberman in "Final Fight" and also provided his voice to the game "Seiken Densetsu 2" where he played the character of Dyluck. Among his most famous characters was Wolzard/Kai Ozu in the Japanese TV series "Mahou Sentai Magiranger". His last role was in the anime series "High School Mystery: Gakuen Nanafushigi" where he played the character of the policeman. Yoshimura's legacy lives on through his impressive body of work, and he is remembered as a talented voice actor and singer, whose contributions added great value to the anime and entertainment industry.

Yoshimura was born in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, on July 10, 1954. He was interested in acting from a young age and began his career in the entertainment industry as a stage actor. He made his debut as a voice actor in the late 1970s and quickly gained popularity for his distinctive voice and wide range of roles. In addition to his work in anime and video games, Yoshimura also appeared in numerous television dramas and films during his career.

Despite his success, Yoshimura was known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, and he remained beloved by fans and colleagues alike throughout his life. His sudden death in 1991 came as a shock to many, and his passing was mourned by fans around the world. Today, he is remembered as a talented artist and a pioneer of the Japanese voice acting industry.

Yoshimura's dedication to his craft was evident in everything he did. He was known for his attention to detail and his willingness to go the extra mile to perfect his characters. His hard work paid off, as he won numerous awards throughout his career, including the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 3rd Seiyu Awards for his role as Kai Ozu in "Mahou Sentai Magiranger."

Beyond his work in the entertainment industry, Yoshimura was also an advocate for social justice and was known for his commitment to helping those in need. He was involved in various charity organizations and regularly gave back to his community. His legacy as a kind-hearted and generous person is still remembered by those who knew him.

Today, Yo Yoshimura is remembered as one of the greatest voice actors of his time. His contributions to the anime and entertainment industry have left a lasting impact, and his work continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

He died as a result of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

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Lee Yangji

Lee Yangji (March 15, 1955 Nishikatsura-May 22, 1992) was a Japanese novelist.

She was born as the eldest daughter of a Korean family living in Japan. Lee started writing at an early age and pursued her passion for literature by attending the Waseda University in Tokyo. After graduating, she worked at a publishing company before becoming a full-time writer.

Lee's novels often dealt with the struggles and experiences of Koreans living in Japan. Her most famous work, "Tokyo Blackout," is a semi-autobiographical novel that tells the story of a young Korean woman in Japan who is forced to confront her identity and past when she becomes involved in a protest movement. The novel received critical acclaim and won several literary awards.

Despite her success, Lee struggled with depression and died by suicide at the age of 37. Her legacy lives on as her works continue to be read and studied in Japan and around the world.

Lee Yangji was not only a prolific novelist but also an advocate for the rights of ethnic Koreans in Japan. She used her writing to shed light on the discrimination and marginalization that Koreans faced in Japanese society. In addition to her literary works, Lee was also an active participant in the Korean-Japanese community, and her commitment to social justice inspired her to use her platform to speak out on behalf of marginalized groups.

Lee's impact on Japanese literature and culture cannot be overstated. Her works were groundbreaking in their exploration of identity and cultural conflict, and they continue to resonate with readers today. She was revered for her honesty and bravery in confronting the difficult issues facing Koreans living in Japan, and her legacy has inspired a new generation of writers to continue in her footsteps. Despite her tragically short life, Lee Yangji remains an important figure in both Japanese and Korean literature, and her contributions continue to be celebrated and remembered.

Lee Yangji's dedication to representing the experiences of ethnic Koreans in Japan in her works earned her a loyal following, and she was highly regarded as a voice of resistance and hope. Her novels, which often depicted the alienation and struggles faced by ethnic Koreans in Japan, were praised for their raw emotional depth and lyrical prose. In addition to "Tokyo Blackout," her other notable works include "Wild Fire," "The Living and the Dead," and "Dance Dance Dance."

Despite enduring periods of professional and personal strife, Lee never wavered in her commitment to producing work that was both honest and socially relevant. Her lasting influence can be seen in the many Japanese and Korean authors who have cited her as a key inspiration, and in the continued recognition of her contributions to the literary world. Additionally, her work has been translated into several languages, extending her impact and broadening the reach of her message of compassion and understanding.

Lee Yangji's personal life was as tumultuous as her career. She suffered constant discrimination and racism as a Korean living in Japan, which led to a sense of displacement and isolation. She struggled with depression and anxiety throughout her life, and her struggles with mental health ultimately led to her untimely death. However, Lee's literary legacy remains a powerful testament to the resilience and fortitude of those who have been marginalized and oppressed. Her work has been widely lauded for its unflinching portrayal of the universal human experience and its ability to transcend cultural and societal boundaries. Lee Yangji was truly a trailblazer in the world of Japanese literature, whose groundbreaking work continues to inspire and captivate readers today.

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Yakkun Sakurazuka

Yakkun Sakurazuka (September 24, 1976 Yokohama-October 5, 2013 Mine) also known as 桜塚やっくん, Sakurazuka, Yakkun, 斎藤恭央 or Saitou, Yasuo was a Japanese singer, comedian and voice actor.

His most well known albums: SAKURA革命.

He died caused by traffic collision.

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