Pioneering Japanese musician Ryuichi Sakamoto has been diagnosed with throat cancer.
The influential electronic artist, considered a driving force behind techno and acid house music, particularly through his work in the Yellow Magic Orchestra, posted a statement on his website Thursday, revealing his battle with the disease.
"In the end of June, I was diagnosed with throat cancer," the post began.
"After much thought and consideration, I have decided to take time off of work in order 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 confirmed he would not be able to attend several commitments, including a performance later this month commemorating Park Hyatt Tokyo's 20th anniversary, over the coming weeks as he takes time to recover.
Along with his impact on electronic music since beginning his career in 1970s, Sakamoto has also created a number of scores and soundtracks to several films over the years. His most notable film works include 1983's Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence and '87 feature The Last Emperor. The latter film earned Sakamoto an Academy Award for Best Original Score along with David Byrne and Cong Su.
