Japanese electronic artist Susumu Yokota has recently passed away at the age of just 54.
Fairly inactive since his last piece of work which was 3 years ago (Dreamer, 2012), Yokota has been having health issues over the past few years. His family announced recently that he actually passed a couple months back on March 27th.
In the 90's, Yokota established quite a strong reputation in the electronic scene. He was a renowned DJ and producer known for releases on the German label Harthouse. He's known for his techno and house style songs and a combination of ambient with breakbeat.
Yokota's family announced his passing with this statement:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Susumu Yokota who passed away on 27th March, 2015 at the age of 54 after a long period of medical treatment. We are deeply thankful to the people who listened to and supported Susumu’s music during his lifetime. Please accept our sincere apologies for the delay in this announcement, as we were until recently unacquainted with Susumu’s Music Industry contacts.”
Tony Morley of the record label “Leaf,” shared his sentiment for Yokota in a post on his website by saying, “Though he spoke very little English, he was always a charming and thoughtful companion.” Read more here. Yokota released six albums on Leaf during the course of 1999-2003.
Yesterday, Lo Recordings also released this statement via FACT MAG:
“Yokota’s music was always completely individual, always esoteric yet never wilfully indulgent. His touch was that of a master craftsman, creating intricate musical Jewels that sparkled like no others. There’s no doubt that if he had been in a position to play live concerts his reputation would far exceed many of his contemporaries. He will be sorely missed by those who value quality and originality in music.”
This is one of his most well-known tracks, “Flying Cat.”
