On September 20, the music world lost a young and rising star, Sayuri, who passed away at just 28 years old. This heartbreaking news was announced on the singer’s official X account (formerly Twitter), and her family confirmed that a private funeral had taken place.

The tragedy came as a shock to her fans and the music industry alike, as Sayuri had only recently announced a break from her career to address her ongoing health struggles. Her husband, Amaarashi, who is also a musician, shared that Sayuri had been fighting a chronic illness. 

Earlier this year, she revealed she was battling functional dysphonia — a voice disorder causing a strained, irregular sound without any physical or neurological reason. Despite seeking therapy and working closely with vocal coaches, Sayuri found herself increasingly frustrated by her inability to communicate and connect through her music.

Sayuri’s Musical Journey

Born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan, she began singing and playing the guitar as a teenager. Her musical journey started on the streets and in small venues, where she performed as part of a duo named LONGTAL. Her performances soon captured attention, and her music began resonating with the local audience.

At 19, she made her major solo debut with the single “Mikazuki,” which quickly gained popularity as the ending theme for the anime Rampo Kitan: Game of Laplace. This breakthrough paved the way for a promising career in music, particularly in the anime scene. Sayuri’s talent, combined with her unique sound, quickly made her a prominent voice in anime theme songs.

Most Notable Works From Sayuri 

Sayuri’s songs became synonymous with several popular anime, creating a strong bond between her music and storytelling in the genre. Here are some of her most cherished works:

• “Mikazuki” (2016) – Her debut solo track that marked her entry into the anime world.
• “Hana no Tō” (Tower of Flower) (2022) – The ending theme for Lycoris Recoil. This song became a fan favorite for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody.
• “Heikōsen” (Parallel Lines) (2017) – The theme song for Scum’s Wish, resonating deeply with the anime’s emotional tone.
• “Sore wa Chiisa na Hikari no yō na” (That Was Like a Small Light) (2016) – The ending song for ERASED, which perfectly captured the show’s intense atmosphere.
• “Kōkai no Uta” (Song of Regret) (2019) – Featured in My Hero Academia, this song amplified the emotional depth of the anime.

Sayuri’s music was characterized by its deep emotion, storytelling, and melodic richness. Her voice carried both strength and vulnerability, creating a unique listening experience that made her songs memorable for anime fans worldwide.

A Challenging Year and Personal Struggles

2023 was a significant year for Sayuri, not only professionally but also personally. On March 18, she married fellow musician Amaarashi, and the two began their journey together as a couple. However, only a few months later, Sayuri announced her hiatus to focus on her health. She openly shared her battle with functional dysphonia, discussing how it impacted her ability to perform and connect with her audience.

Sayuri’s decision to step away from music was met with support and encouragement from her fans, who hoped she would recover and return to the stage. Her transparency in sharing her struggle brought awareness to functional dysphonia, a condition that can be deeply isolating for vocal artists. Throughout her break, she sought speech therapy and worked on her vocal health, but her illness remained a challenge.

The Legacy of Music

Although Sayuri’s career was cut short, her impact remains significant. She brought a fresh, emotional approach to anime theme songs, blending her unique vocal style with powerful lyrics. Her music continues to be celebrated by fans and listeners, who feel a deep connection to the themes of her songs and the stories they told.

For those who appreciated her music, Sayuri’s voice was more than just entertainment — it was a source of solace, inspiration, and understanding. Her artistry not only highlighted her talent but also her willingness to be vulnerable and authentic, making her a relatable figure for many.

Honoring Sayuri’s Memory

As we remember Sayuri, we honor her contributions to music, her dedication to her craft, and her courage in facing personal struggles. Though she may no longer be with us, her voice will continue to echo through her songs and the anime series that featured her music.

For fans around the world, Sayuri’s passing is a deep loss, but her memory lives on in the melodies and lyrics that have touched countless lives. Her journey as a singer may have ended, but her voice will forever remain a cherished part of anime culture and music history.