A great music producer has passed away.

Today, Rocking On Group announced through its official website that YOICHI Shibuya, chairman of the board, passed away on July 14 from aspiration pneumonia at the age of 74. he suffered a cerebral hemorrhage in November 2023, and although he had been undergoing rehabilitation, he sadly did not return.

Yoichi was a music critic, editor, radio DJ, and festival producer who had a great influence on the Japanese music scene. He is a very special person to MCZ.

For MCZ, he was also a special presence.

MCZ was the first idol group to be invited to the ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL, a large-scale music festival he produced and launched in 2000.

When he introduced MCZ on stage in his preface, he famously delivered a message that stuck in Mononofu's mind every time.

For example, the following comment was made.

Momoclo is both an idol and an expressionist.
As long as momoclo performs, Rock'in Japan will be safe.
Momoclo was the first idol to perform at a rock festival.

Following the news of Yoichi's passing, Mononofus have been expressing their sadness and gratitude on X.