Tokyo, February 23, 2026 – The Europe Today: Shinya, the longtime drummer of the iconic Japanese rock band Luna Sea, has passed away at the age of 56 following a prolonged battle with illness. The news was confirmed Monday through a statement posted on the band’s official website, according to media reports.
Born in Kanagawa Prefecture, Shinya developed his passion for music early in life. During high school, he formed a band with a close friend who would later rise to fame as Sugizo. Alongside future bandmates — including vocalist Ryuichi Kawamura — the group went on to establish Luna Sea, which would become one of Japan’s most influential rock bands.
The five-member band began performing live in 1989 and made their major-label debut in 1992, quickly gaining a dedicated following. Over the decades, Shinya earned acclaim for his powerful low-frequency drumming style and commanding stage presence. Among his most memorable live features was a spectacular drum setup capable of rotating 360 degrees, a visual and musical highlight that captivated audiences.
In 2020, Shinya was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer but continued to perform live despite his condition, demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication to his craft. In September last year, he publicly disclosed that doctors had discovered a brain tumor. According to the band’s statement, he passed away on February 17.
In a heartfelt joint statement, the remaining members of Luna Sea paid tribute to their late bandmate, recalling his unwavering determination and optimism.
“Shinya believed more strongly than anyone that ‘the five of us will return to stage once more,’” the statement read. “His unyielding spirit and his radiant, sun-like smile had been a source of hope for his fellow band members and our entire staff.”
Shinya’s legacy as a pioneering drummer and a central figure in Japan’s rock scene will endure through his music and the countless lives he inspired throughout his career.
