Sayuri, the talented musician known for her contributions to popular anime series like My Hero Academia and Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi), has tragically passed away at the young age of 28.

Her husband, Amaarashi, announced the heartbreaking news through her official social media account on X (formerly Twitter) on September 20, 2024. In line with Sayuri’s wishes, a private funeral was held for close friends and family. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the kindness shown to Sayuri during her lifetime,” the statement read. “Together, we pray for her soul to rest in peace. We kindly ask the media to respect the family’s grief and refrain from conducting interviews with those involved.”

While the cause of Sayuri’s death has not been disclosed, it was known that she announced an indefinite hiatus in July 2024 due to functional dysphonia—a condition that affects vocal cord functionality, causing strained sounds due to tension in the voice box muscles. Her husband shared that she remained “passionate about music until the very end, despite battling a chronic illness.”

Musical Journey

Sayuri began her journey as an indie artist in 2010, relocating from her hometown in Fukuoka to Tokyo in 2013 to pursue her musical dreams. She made her major debut at the age of 18 in 2015, quickly gaining recognition among anime fans when her single “Mikazuki” was selected as the ending theme for Rampo Kitan: Game of Laplace. This marked the beginning of her successful career in the anime music industry.

Following her breakout hit, Sayuri continued to gain popularity with tracks featured in several notable anime series. Some of her most recognized songs include:

• “Sore wa Chiisana Hikari no Youna” for Erased, which beautifully captures the emotional depth of the series.
• “Parallel Line” for Scum’s Wish, showcasing her ability to convey complex feelings through music.
• “Koukai no Uta” for My Hero Academia Season 4, which resonated with fans and enhanced the anime’s themes of heroism and perseverance.
• “Sekai no Himitsu” for Edens Zero, adding to the rich auditory experience of the series.
• “Hana no Tou” for Lycoris Recoil, further solidifying her place in the anime music landscape.

Although Sayuri chose to keep her real name private, she was celebrated for her powerful, naturally trembling voice and her poignant, often dark lyrics, which resonated deeply with her listeners. Her music frequently explored themes of love, loss, and existential reflection, creating a profound emotional connection with her audience.

Throughout her career, Sayuri received accolades for her unique sound and ability to blend various musical styles, including pop, rock, and ballads. Her contributions not only enriched the anime she worked on but also left a lasting impact on the music community. Fans are mourning her untimely passing and remembering her for her artistry, passion, and the indelible mark she left on the anime and music worlds.

Community Response

The news of Sayuri’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and fellow artists alike. Many have taken to social media to share their favorite songs and memories, celebrating her influence on their lives and the anime industry. As the community reflects on her legacy, it’s clear that Sayuri will be remembered not just for her music but for the emotional depth she brought to her art.

In a world where artists often struggle with health issues, Sayuri’s story highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support for creative individuals. Her journey reminds us to cherish and support the artists who bring joy and meaning to our lives through their work.