[Deathwatch] Koji Tano, musician, 44

[Deathwatch Central]

THE PASSING OF A FRIEND 
1.8.2005
Our friend Koji Tano died yesterday, sunday july 31st.

My information is limited, but what I know is that Koji was diagnosed
with stomach cancer in may, but after surgery the doctors could only
conclude it was too late, the cancer had spread too far, and he was
given maximum a year left to live. It lasted only two months.

Koji did more in his short time (I belive he was only 43) than most of
us can hope for in a full lifetime. He had many friends around the
world. As an organizer of shows and tours in Japan he was the key to
almost everyone in the noise/experimental community coming to Japan. He
seemed tireless, as he was constantly networking and helping people out
(myself included). 

As a musican Koji made a name for himself with his project MSBR, with
countless releases and tours all over the world. (On his tours he
always took with him younger acts, giving them exposure). Koji also
launched the first extensive website for noise music, up and running in
1996. He published a magazine, ran an online mailorder, booked shows
and tours, ran several labels, and in the last two years had his own
store in Tokyo. His dedication and support for the music he loved was
something extraordinary and his passing leaves a huge void in the noise
scene.

I have been corresponding with Koji for over ten years and met him in
person on a handful of occations. This april I was in Japan, touring
with John Hegre and John Sharp. During our time in Tokyo we stayed at
his apartment, Koji sleeping on the livingroom floor, insisting we use
his bedroom. He guided us around and made sure our stay was the best it
could be. I belive the show he set up with us at Shibuya O-nest on
April 16th was not only the last show he ever set up, but also his last
MSBR concert performance.

Usually when people pass away people remember the good stuff, but I can
honestly say I've never heard anybody say a single bad word of Koji. He
was, simply, a hero. Rest in peace Koji, we will miss you.

My condolences to Koji's close friends and family.


(obit from http://www.lassemarhaug.no/ )


Many thanks to Stevie Davidson for posting this obituary