Joe Yamanaka Passes Away

Singer Joe Yamanaka, who was diagnosed in March 2010 with lung cancer, passed away in the early hours of this morning at the age of 64.

Joe Yamanaka was best known as the vocalist for rock band Flower Travellin Band which formed in 1968. Over their career, the band gained a considerable cult following due in part to their unique blend of English lyrics and Eastern music. However, the singer also established a successful solo career for himself, most notably with an appearance in the movie "Ningen no shoumei" in 1977.

A funeral service will be held on August 12th at the Gloria Chapel in Shinagawa, Tokyo.

We would like to express our deepest sympathies to Joe Yamanaka's family, friends and former band mates at this difficult time.