REITA, bassist for the visual kei band the GazettE, has passed away at the age of 42 on April 15th, leaving fans and the music community in mourning.
The announcement was made through an official notice on the band’s website, stating, “This is the saddest news we have to inform that the GazettE’s bassist, REITA, passed away on April 15, 2024.” The sudden loss has left members of the band and staff unable to fully comprehend the situation.
Alongside bandmates RUKI and Uruha, REITA played a pivotal role in the formation of the GazettE back in 2002. For over 22 years, his dedication to the band contributed to their pioneering sound and global success.
REITA’s last tweet, posted on April 15th at 3:50 am (JST), simply read, “I hope the GazettE will last forever”, echoing his unwavering commitment to the band and its legacy.
In response to the news, fans and fellow artists have expressed their heartfelt condolences on social media. Many have shared memories and messages of gratitude for REITA’s contributions to the music world and the impact he had on their lives.
London-based record label JPU Records, who signed the band in 2013, expressed their condolences, stating via X (Twitter), “REITA, you influenced us so much. May you rest in peace.” Additionally, staff associated with the anime Kuroshitsuji (Black Butler), for which the band provided the opening theme for season 2, also released a statement on their official X (Twitter) account.
the GazettE’s management has requested privacy and understanding during this difficult time, emphasizing that the funeral will be held with only close relatives, in accordance with the family’s wishes.
About the GazettE
Formed in 2002, the GazettE quickly became a dominant force in Tokyo’s gig scene, swiftly expanding their reach worldwide. Releasing their debut album, ‘Disorder’, in 2004, which peaked at number 19 on the Oricon Charts, their landmark moment came in 2006 with their debut headline show at Nippon Budokan.
For many in the west, the band served as a gateway into the visual kei genre and Japan’s heavy music scene as a whole, forming a global fanbase culminating in successful world tours since 2013, covering 22 cities across 13 countries.