Publicado
Wed, Jun 21, 2023, 19:32
- "We gathered in front of the trees scheduled to be cut down in Jingu Gaien [park] to align with Sakamoto's attitude and will," protest organisers said.
Japanese DJ Compuma has shared a mix of Ryuichi Sakamoto tracks that scored a demonstration to save a scenic Tokyo district—an issue close to Sakamoto's heart.
The protest, held in April, opposed the city's proposal to remove around 1,000 trees in Jingu Gaien, a leafy oasis in the Japanese capital, to make room for a new stadium. Just before his death from cancer in March this year, Sakamoto sent a letter to Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike speaking out against the issue. The late composer often used his platform for activism, particulary nuclear proliferation and environmental issues.
The protest was organised by D2021, a festival and organisation cofounded by local musicians and activists, including Sakamoto himself, Gotch and Rei Nagai. Compuma was asked to play an all-Sakamoto set at the event to represent the artist's work and wishes.
"It would be a lie to say that there is no resistance to plan a gathering around Sakamoto's death," the D2021 team told Resident Advisor. "But we also know that he would not want us to sit there and do nothing. From somewhere high above us, we feel like we are urged to take action. With our concern and love for society, we gathered in front of the trees scheduled to be cut down in Jingu Gaien to align with Sakamoto's attitude and will."
D2021 added: "D2021 has been working with Mr. Sakamoto to imagine what an ideal society for us would be like. What we have realised through working together with him is no matter how famous an individual is, society will never change unless 'everyone,' regardless of whether they are famous or unknown, takes on the challenge together."
Listen to Compuma's set, which features Sakamoto classics like "Riot In Lagos" and "Thousand Knives."
For more on D2021, visit the website. To learn about the Jingu Gaien redevelopment project, check this petition. To celebrate Sakamoto's long and illustrious career, revisit our obituary from April.
Additional reporting by Yuko Asanuma.
Photo: Taro Mizutani