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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Atsushi Sakurai, the cherished vocalist of the beloved rock band BUCK-TICK. At the age of 57, he left us tragically due to a brainstem hemorrhage on October 19, 2023, at 23:09 JST.

During BUCK-TICK’s concert at KT Zepp Yokohama on October 19, Sakurai suddenly became ill and was immediately taken to the hospital. Regrettably, he passed away later that same evening.

According to his family’s wishes, Sakurai’s funeral was private, with only close relatives in attendance. His management has announced plans for a public remembrance ceremony to take place at a later date.

The announcement from BUCK-TICK’s official site has been translated into English below:

Dear all,
Atsushi Sakurai, loved by many as the vocalist of BUCK-TICK, was suddenly rushed to hospital after falling ill part-way through the concert at KT Zepp Yokohama on October 19, 2023.
At 23:09 JST on October 19, 2023, he passed away as a result of a brainstem hemorrhage.
A departure far too soon at the age of 57.
A funeral service was held in accordance with the wishes of his next of kin, and attended by family.
We are deeply sorry for the delay in making this announcement.
We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Sakurai.
Please be advised that condolence calls and telegrams, incense, flowers, and other such expressions of sympathy will be strictly declined. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time.
This year marked the 35th anniversary of the band’s debut, celebrated with a concert this September at Gunma Music Centre in Mr. Sakurai’s home prefecture, leading into their 36th year.
We, the members and staff, are still in a state of confusion and disbelief over this sudden occurrence. Our sadness cannot be expressed with mere words.
We would like to hold a memorial service for his fans at a later date.
We are deeply sorry to the organizers and those of you who were looking forward to attending future concerts for the inconvenience.
We are truly thankful to all of you, the fans and staff, who have supported Atsushi Sakurai for all this time.
October 24, 2023
BANKER LTD.
BUCK-TICK

BUCK-TICK made their major debut in 1987, with the release of their hit single “Just One More Kiss”. The band has never changed members throughout their 36-year career. BUCK-TICK is considered a foundational band for the visual kei genre, inspiring many in the movement today. He is deeply missed, as evidenced by an outpouring of grief from musicians, artists, and fans alike on social media worldwide.

May he rest in peace, surrounded by the loving thoughts of his family, friends, and fans.