TOKYO - Renowned Japanese composer and musician Ryuichi Sakamoto has died at the age of 71, his agency reported Sunday.

The award-winning artist passed away on March 28th, according to an announcement by Japan's record label Avex.

"While undergoing treatment for cancer diagnosed in June 2020, Sakamoto continued to create works in his home studio whenever his health would allow," said the announcement on the official website of the company.

Also a member of the electronic music band Yellow Magic Orchestra, known as YMO, Sakamoto was best known for his work as a film composer.

He became the first Japanese winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Score for "The Last Emperor" in 1988.

After the earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011, the artist used his music to support children affected by the disaster, according to local media reports.