Yutaka

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Ozaki was born at Japan Self-Defense Forces Central Hospital in Setagaya, Tokyo, to Kinue and Kenichi Ozaki. He had one older brother, Yasushi. Early in life, he was hospitalized with intestinal torsion and bronchitis which subsequently weakened his internal organs. In 1973 he began studying martial arts and continued training throughout his life. In January 1975 he began playing piano and in March of that year, he wrote his first poem. His first live performance was in 1978 at his school's cultural festival. He was discovered by producer Akira Sudo and signed to CBS Sony in 1983. He debuted in December 1983 while he was still attending high school with his hit single "Jūgo no Yoru" and his album Seventeen's Map. He gained tremendous support from his younger fanbase with his devastating live performances along with his unique lyrics that expressed dreams and love or the meaning of life. He represented the angst of adolescence, and a lot of the times attacked what he felt was unfair in society or schools.

In Their Own Story

On April 25, 1992, Ozaki was found naked, drunk and unconscious in a Tokyo residential site. He was taken by ambulance but was soon dismissed from the hospital. He died several hours later. The cause of death was reported as pulmonary edema but many theories have arisen as to the actual cause of death, the most popular being homicide. Stimulants were detected in his body. He was survived by his wife, Shigemi, and his son, Hiroya Ozaki.

Reader's Guide

Ozaki's discography includes eleven singles released between 1983 and 1994, with "Oh My Little Girl" released posthumously. His studio albums are: Jūnanasai no Chizu (1983), Kaikisen (1985), Kowareta Tobira kara (1985), Gairojū (1988), Tanjou (1990), and Hounetsu e no Akashi (1992). Compilations include Aisu-beki Mono Subete-ni (1996), Artery & Vein – The Very Best of Yutaka Ozaki (1999), and 13/71 – The Best Selection (2004). Live albums include Last Teenage Appearance – The Myth of Yutaka Ozaki (1987), Yakusoku no Hi Vol.1 and Vol.2 (both 1993), Missing Boy (1997), and Osaka Stadium on August 25 in 1985 Vol.1 and Vol.2 (both 1998). A 2011 TV-drama called Kaze no Shounen portrayed his life and in depth early career, from meeting his manager Sudo to his death. He was played by Hiroki Narimiya.

Did You Know?

• Ozaki debuted in December 1983 while still attending high school.
• He was hospitalized early in life with intestinal torsion and bronchitis, which weakened his internal organs.
• His first live performance was in 1978 at his school's cultural festival.
• The cause of his death was reported as pulmonary edema, but many theories, including homicide, have arisen.
• Stimulants were detected in his body after his death.