LOUDNESS - Drummer MUNETAKA HIGUCHI Passes Away Following Battle With Liver Cancer
November 30, 2008, 15 years ago
BW&BK;'s source in Japan has contacted us with the sad news that LOUDNESS drummer Munetaka Higuchi, who has been battling liver cancer since the beginning of the year, passed away this morning (November 30th). Guitarist Akira Takasaki has posted the news in his online blog in Japanese here thanking the fans for their support.
Higuchi passed away in Osaka, Japan. He was 49 years old.
Higuchi was diagnosed with Hepatocellular Carcinoma in April 2008 and had reportedly undergone two rounds of chemotherapy treatment and an operation to remove part of his liver.
Higuchi issued the following statement regarding his condition on October 18th: "It has been half a year since I was diagnosed with liver cancer. I am really sorry that the fans are worried. The cancer has become worse despite the fact that I have been taking care of my health, and I will need more time for my treatment. [Even after undergoing the] big operation to remove half of my liver, I still need more treatment. There are various risks and dangers involved with my condition, but I'll do my best to keep my spirits up and maintain my physical strength to fight this illness. I know it is still the middle of my treatment, but I just wanted inform you about my progress since the operation. Thank you very much for all the support."
The BW&BK; staff sends its heartfelt condolences to the band and Higuchi's friends and family
'Esper' (live 1984)
'SDI' (live 2001)
'Metal Mad' (2008)
Drum solo
