The music world is in mourning following the untimely passing of the talented singer-songwriter Sayuri, who tragically died on September 20, 2024, at the age of 28. Renowned for her captivating performances and heartfelt compositions, Sayuri left an indelible mark on the anime music scene, lending her unique voice to theme songs for beloved series such as Fate/Extra: Last Encore, Boku no Hero Academia, Boku dake ga Inai Machi, Golden Kamuy, Ranpo Kitan, Edens Zero, Kuzu no Honkai, and Lycoris Recoil. Her contributions resonated with fans worldwide, and her absence is deeply felt.
Sayuri’s remarkable talent and vibrant spirit endeared her to many, but her life was tragically cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of those who admired her. At such a young age, she achieved so much and touched countless lives through her music. Her story is a poignant reminder of how fleeting life can be, and how important it is to celebrate the moments we have with the ones we love.
A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Sayuri’s journey in music began at a young age. Inspired by the idol boy band Kanjani Eight, she picked up the guitar during her second year of junior high school and started composing music shortly thereafter. With relentless passion, she formed the band Muu, where she showcased her talents as both a guitarist and vocalist. She also performed in the acoustic duo LONGTAL under the name Asuka, captivating audiences through street performances and live shows in bustling cities like Hiroshima, Osaka, and Nagoya.
In 2012, Sayuri’s talent shone brightly when she won the Grand Prix at the 5th Music Revolution finals, where she was the youngest contestant. Following this triumph, she made the bold decision to leave school and pursue her dreams in Tokyo, performing in live houses and favoring open street performances that allowed her to connect with a diverse audience.
The Struggles Behind the Spotlight
Despite her success, Sayuri faced significant challenges. On July 25, 2024, she announced on social media that she would temporarily stop singing due to functional dysphonia, a condition that affects vocal quality. Her resilience and dedication to her art shone through, as she continued to inspire others even during her struggles. Known for her unique stage presence, she often performed in a poncho while barefoot, expressing her belief that being “one with the land” enhanced her connection to her music and audience.
Sayuri was not only a gifted artist but also a lifelong learner. Although she dropped out of high school, she demonstrated her commitment to education by later tweeting in 2015 about taking the exam for the Certificate for Students Achieving the Proficiency Level of Upper Secondary School Graduates. This dedication to self-improvement mirrored her approach to her music, constantly striving to evolve and grow as an artist.
A Heartfelt Farewell
On March 18, 2024, Sayuri announced her marriage to Ama Arashi, a member of the music unit Misekai. Their love story was a beautiful testament to the bond they shared. In a statement released on September 27, Ama expressed his profound sorrow at her passing, saying:
“And if I may say something a little out of character,
I was incredibly happy to be your husband, even though you proposed to me so suddenly, and just a year later, I found myself as the chief mourner.
Only Sayuri and I could have lived such a life.
Thank you for choosing me and believing in me. I will always be by your side. I love you.”
These heartfelt words capture the essence of their relationshipβone filled with love, joy, and now, unimaginable loss. Sayuri’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her loved ones and fans alike.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Throughout her career, Sayuri received numerous accolades, including nominations for the Space Shower Music Awards in 2018 for Best Breakthrough Artist. She was recognized not only for her musical talent but also for her authenticity and connection to her audience. Her monikers, βSanketsu ShΕjoβ (ι Έζ¬ ε°ε₯³, lit. βHypoxia Girlβ) and β2.5D Parallel Singer-Songwriterβ (2.5欑ε γγ©γ¬γ«γ·γ³γ¬γΌγ½γ³γ°γ©γ€γΏγΌ), reflect her innovative spirit and unique approach to music.
Awards and Achievements
2012: Grand Prix at the 5th Music Revolution finals for “Ru-Rararu-Ra-Rurararu-Ra-” (Won)
Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award: (Won)
2018: Space Shower Music Awards, Best Breakthrough Artist (Nominated)
Though her life was tragically cut short at such a young age, Sayuri’s impact on the music world will endure. She inspired countless individuals with her heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.
A private funeral was held for Sayuri, attended by relatives and close friends, who gathered to honor her memory and celebrate her life. The news of her passing serves as a stark reminder of how fleeting life can be and how important it is to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones.
As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary artist, let us remember Sayuri not only for her music but also for the joy she brought into the world. Her spirit will continue to resonate through her songs, reminding us of the brilliance that was, and always will be, Sayuri.
In closing, the Anime Society extends our heartfelt gratitude to Sayuri for everything she has contributed to the anime community and the music world. Her talent, passion, and unique spirit touched the lives of countless fans, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. We send our deepest condolences to her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, holding her memory close in our hearts. Thank you, Sayuri, for the music and joy you brought into our lives.
