The Pop Corporation

An autobiography from the legendary composer Ryuichi Sakamoto has been confirmed and it is called ‘Music Sets You Free: A Memoir’. You’ll be able to buy a copy on September 22nd, and it is bound to be brilliant.

A statement from publishers HarperVia say the book will be “the complete autobiography from the legendary and fearless musician, composer, and activist Ryuichi Sakamoto, in a brilliant translation from the Japanese by Sam Bett and with the full support and collaboration of Sakamoto’s estate and management team.”

Sakamoto, of course, died in 2023 and left behind a massive legacy, not least founding Yellow Magic Orchestra, as well as doing movie work for films like ‘The Last Emperor’, ‘Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence’ and more.

A statement from publishing house Harper Collins adds: “Music Sets You Free combines the translations of Sakamoto’s two memoirs published in Japanese – Music Makes You Free and How Many More Times Will I Watch the Full Moon Rise? It offers an intimate, contemplative account of his life, from his first encounter with a piano, to his rise as a global pop star, and his later reflections on mortality and music in the wake of multiple cancer treatments and surgeries.”

“An affirming, beautifully written testament to art, life and sound, Music Sets You Free is a lasting gift from a true musical great.

Could be a great Christmas present for the muso in your family!