Mick Karn, bass player for Japan, has died in London from cancer at the age of 52.
Karn was diagnosed with advanced stage cancer in June 2010 and passed away at his home in Chelsea at 4:30pm, January 4, 2011.
A statement at his official website reads, “It's with profound sadness that we have to inform you that Mick finally lost his battle with cancer and passed away peacefully at 4.30pm today, 4th January 2011 at home in Chelsea, London. He was surrounded by his family and friends and will be deeply missed by all”.
Karn founded Japan with David Sylvian, Richard Barbieri and Steve Jansen (Sylvian’s brother) in 1974. They were one of the original glam rock acts of the UK, keeping the tradition set by David Bowie and T. Rex.
Japan’s most successful album ‘Tin Drum’ reached no. 12 in the UK in 1982. It was also their last. Personal differences between the members was what broke up the band.
The group did reform in 1992 but not as Japan. Sylvian, Jansen, Karn and Barbieri released an album under the name Rain Tree Crow.
A statement at David Sylvian’s website reads, “It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of mick karn after his battle with cancer. Several months after having been diagnosed with terminal cancer mick finally succumbed to the illness at 4.30pm on 4th Januray 2011 at his residence in Chelsea, London. He is survived by his wife Kyoko, and his son Metis. May his suffering be at an end, may he find eternal peace”.
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