Highly influential Japanese composer/musician Ryuichi Sakamoto, who immense list of credits include membership in iconic ’70s electronic music band Yellow Magic Orchestra to acting and composing the 1983 film Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, announced on his website today that he was diagnosed with throat cancer in June and will be taking a break from all professional activities. Despite his health situation, Sakamoto has apologized extensively to everyone inconvenienced by his decision to cancel his upcoming appearances.
“After much thought and consideration,” he wrote, “I have decided to concentrate on treating it. I deeply regret causing so many people considerable inconvenience. However, the first wealth is health, and hence this bitter decision.”
Sakamoto has thusly pulled out of First Sapporo International Art Festival 2014, a project he was preparing for over the course of two years, and has apologized to the Mayor of Sapporo. Another planned performance celebrating the Hyatt Tokyo 20th anniversary has also been nixed, and Sakamoto has apologized to those involved in the event.
“Lastly, I would like to apologize for all of the burden I will undoubtedly be casting upon everyone who has been working with me on various other projects.”
Here’s wishing Mr. Sakamoto a speedy recovery.