Akira Tsuneoka, the accomplished drummer known for his work with the bands Hi-STANDARD and Summertime, passed away suddenly on February 14. The news of his unexpected death was shared on the social media channels of Pizza of Death, a record label associated with Hi-STANDARD. His untimely passing is a great loss for the music community, and he will be deeply missed.
Who was Akira Tsuneoka?
Akira Tsuneoka was a talented musician, best known as the drummer for the Japanese punk rock band Hi-STANDARD. Born in 1971, Tsuneoka started his music career as a guitarist, but it was not until his third year in junior high school that he discovered his passion for drumming. After finishing high school, he was invited by Akihiro Namba to join the studio, where he co-founded Hi-STANDARD alongside Ken Yokoyama and other musicians. Originally a quartet, the band later became a trio after the vocalist withdrew. Hi-STANDARD gained widespread recognition in the mid-90s, following the release of their album “Growing Up” and signing to the renowned punk rock label Fat Wreck Chords. Tsuneoka remained with Hi-STANDARD throughout his career until his sudden and unexpected passing on February 14, 2023. His remarkable talent and contribution to the punk rock scene in Japan and beyond will be deeply missed.
この写真画大好きです、３人からPunk Rockの楽しさ、面白さを沢山教わった、もう二度とこの最強の３人が揃うことは無いという現実、余りにも悲し過ぎる😿 被災地・東北で行われた『AIR JAM 2012』絶対に忘れない🥁
— TAL2121 (@goodforswimming) February 15, 2023
R.I.P. 恒岡章…#HiSTANDARD #Kenyokoyama #Akiratsuneoka #Akihironamba https://t.co/INcm2desCQ
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Akira Tsuneoka died: What was his Cause of death?
The sudden passing of Akira Tsuneoka, the highly respected drummer for Hi-STANDARD, has deeply saddened the music community. Tsuneoka, who was just 51 years old, had a significant impact on the punk rock scene in Japan and beyond, influencing many players with his impeccable rhythm and style. Unfortunately, the cause of his death has not been revealed. News of his passing has sent shockwaves through the music industry, leaving fans, fellow musicians, and industry professionals reeling. Following the announcement of his death, social media platforms have been inundated with tributes and messages of condolence from fans and peers who have been touched by his music and his talent. Akira Tsuneoka’s legacy as a gifted musician and inspiring performer will live on, and he will always be remembered as one of the most significant figures in the Japanese punk rock scene.
Career of Akira Tsuneoka?
Hi-STANDARD, the iconic Japanese punk rock band, burst onto the music scene in 1994 with the release of their first mini-album, “LAST OF SUNNY DAY.” Their unique style, which combined English-language lyrics and a punk rock sound, quickly gained a devoted following. The band’s popularity continued to soar the following year with the release of their first full-length album, “Growing Up,” which marked their major-label debut. The album’s international release helped to spread the name of Hi-STANDARD far beyond the shores of Japan.
As the band’s fame grew, they enjoyed chart-topping success with their 1997 single “Angry Fist,” which reached number four on the Oricon list. That same year, the band’s drummer, Akira Tsuneoka, hosted the first-ever AIR JAM music festival. Tsuneoka’s playing style, characterized by an exhilarating beat with plenty of speed, gained him legions of fans and cemented his status as a highly respected musician within the melocore scene. Hi-STANDARD’s enduring popularity and influence on the punk rock genre in Japan and beyond is a testament to the band’s exceptional talent and Tsuneoka’s contribution as their skilled drummer.
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In 1999, Hi-STANDARD released their album “The Road” under independent label Pizza of Death. The album was a major commercial success, selling over 1 million copies both domestically and internationally, a significant milestone for an independent label. The band went on to perform at AIR JAM 2000 at the Chiba Marine Stadium, delivering a memorable performance to an enthusiastic crowd. However, shortly after this event, the band decided to disband. After the breakup of Hi-STANDARD, Tsuneoka initially avoided music, but he was eventually invited by Matsuda “CHABE” Takeji to join the band CUBISMO GRAFICO FIVE.
He also played with other groups, including “The Beat Breaker” and “Low IQ.” Tsuneoka’s skills as a drummer were highly sought after, and his involvement in various musical projects demonstrated his versatility and adaptability as a musician. Though Hi-STANDARD’s run as a band was relatively short-lived, their impact on the Japanese music industry and their loyal fan base have made them a legendary punk rock group, and Tsuneoka’s contributions as their drummer will always be remembered.
Obituary and Funeral Arrangements
The family has announced that details regarding his obituary and funeral arrangements will be released at a later time. The news of Tsuneoka’s sudden death has left fans and the music community in shock and mourning. Many have taken to social media to pay tribute to the influential drummer, whose contributions to the punk rock scene in Japan and beyond have left an enduring impact. As the family prepares to say their final goodbyes to their beloved family member, fans and admirers will be eagerly waiting for more information regarding the farewell arrangements.
