On August 5th 2023, our music community was shaken by the sudden loss of ISSAY, the enigmatic frontman of the iconic band DER ZIBET. ISSAY aka the rock poet, known for his unique talent and gentle nature, ISSAY (DER ZIBET) | Event-Report @ Aoyama Mandala, Tokyo [JP] (2024) following a fall after a happy gathering with friends. In honor of ISSAY’s memory and his contributions to the music world, a tribute album called ISSAY gave life to FLOWERS – TRIBUTE to DER ZIBET was created. The tribute album, produced by Hajime Okano, features more than 60 artists who held a deep love and respect for him and includes 18 tracks, with ISSAY’s latest unreleased recordings. The production of this album was funded by the generous contributions of 870 supporters through a crowdfunding campaign conducted in January-February 2024. The album was released on July 6th, in honor of ISSAY’s birthday. On August 4, which happened to be the first anniversary of ISSAY’s death, a tribute event titled ISSAY gave life to FLOWERS was held in Tokyo. Fans and musicians came together to commemorate ISSAY’s legacy through moving performances of DER ZIBET’s classic songs and heartfelt speeches honoring the renowned vocalist.
| SPECIAL GIVEAWAY |
The warm August evening saw Shibuya duo Music Exchange packed with fans and musicians, all gathered to pay tribute to ISSAY, the iconic vocalist of DER ZIBET. The venue was at full capacity, underscoring the profound impact ISSAY had on all those in attendance. As people took their seats, a solemn atmosphere enveloped the room. There was an undeniable sense of sadness and nostalgia, yet it was underpinned by a strong sense of unity—a collective love for a man who had touched so many lives through his music and spirit.
Mayumi Chiwaki (FM Cocolo), a close friend of ISSAY, and HIKARU, the guitarist of DER ZIBET, arrived on stage first to present the show. Their heartfelt thanks to the audience for coming set the tone for the evening, reminding everyone that this was not just a concert, but a celebration of a life well-lived. The start of the show marked the beginning of a dark yet joyous ceremony, a tribute to ISSAY’s legacy. It was a moment to cherish his contributions to music while coming to terms with his absence.
The stage was set as the lights dimmed, musicians & friends of ISSAY made their way onto the platform. The evening began with powerful renditions of The Rolling Stones’ Sympathy for the Devil and David Bowie’s Heroes, capturing the essence of ISSAY’s complex character – embracing both the human experience and the potential for heroism within. As the covers came to an end, the audience was treated to iconic DER ZIBET songs that stirred up memories of unforgettable performances. The air was filled with emotion as the familiar tunes brought back moments shared with ISSAY and DER ZIBET.
The event showcased a diverse yet familiar lineup – including Masami Tsuchiya, Kazuya Umeda (dieS), Diamond☆Yukai and Kogure ‘shake’ Takehiko from RED WARRIORS, JUN & Ken-ichi (Valentine D.C.), Yoshitaka Mikuni (Primitive Mother), Michiaki (Ra:IN), D.I.E (hide with Spread Beaver), Chuya, Mayumi Chiwaki, Dai Arase (dieS), Yusuke Kobayashi & Hirofumi Takamatsu (The Novembers), Seiji Kimura (ZEPPET STORE), Tezya (tezya & the sightz), Kaya, Emi Eleonola, Akito Hashizume (the superlative degree), Yukino (krishnablue), Seiichiro Yonezawa (ex-Lynx /W.A.R.P.), RIKIJI (OBLIVION DUST), Sumitada Koseki (Matilda Rodriguez) and Melody of the Guillotine. Close friends, Chuya and Tezya, made multiple appearances, performing beloved songs such as Masquerade and Der Rhein. Esteemed guitarist Masami Tsuchiya also paid his respects, demonstrating his deep admiration for ISSAY. The singer, Yusuke Kobayashi, and bassist, Hirofumi Takamatsu of The Novembers, representing the newer generation, delivered moving renditions of LOVE SONG and BLUE FILM, their heartfelt interpretations honoring ISSAY’s legacy. The stage also featured friends from Club Sensation, including ASAKI (AGE of PUNK), Michiaki Suzuki (Ra:IN), and D.I.E from hide with Spread Beaver. Their performances revealed the strong musical bonds shared with ISSAY, radiating a deep sense of respect and affection.
As the night progressed, the mood began to shift dramatically. By the 14th song, the iconic Victoria, the audience could no longer stay seated. What had started as a contemplative tribute transformed into a lively celebration, with people rising from their seats, irresistibly drawn to the infectious energy of the music. By the time Shinkaigyo was performed, not a single person remained seated. The stage was taken by storm by all the musicians who had played throughout the night, creating a full communion of music and emotion. It was a moment of pure euphoria, a collective celebration of ISSAY’s life and legacy. People danced, cried, and some even laughed through their tears, while others embraced each other in shared grief and joy. The live experience was nothing short of exceptional. The synergy between the musicians and the audience was palpable. Each performance was not just a tribute to ISSAY but a celebration of the music that had brought everyone together. As the night progressed, the atmosphere shifted from reflective to euphoric. The energy in the room surged as fans and musicians alike lost themselves in the music, transforming the concert into a jubilant celebration. At the very end, Mayumi Chiwaki stepped forward and, with a voice full of emotion, said, “ISSAY, we love you”. As those words echoed through the venue, the musicians left the stage, leaving the audience in a profound state of reflection and celebration. The night had come to an end, but the memories and the music of ISSAY would continue to resonate in the hearts of all those present.
The evening continued with an after-party inside the venue, where friends and musicians gathered to share food and drinks. The atmosphere was warm and friendly as people talked and laughed, sharing memories of ISSAY, adding a light-hearted touch to the gathering.
Special thanks to manager Sir Yurugi, who organized the entire tribute event, and who has been instrumental in allowing all the DER ZIBET giveaways that VMJ hasn’t been organizing – and Hikaru (DER ZIBET).
Mandah FRÉNOT
(c) VMJ
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ISSAY gave life to FLOWERS – Tribute Live to DER ZIBET | duo MUSIC EXCHANGE, Tokyo [JP] (2024)
Suigin No Mizuumi (水銀の湖)
Perfect Kiss
Sympathy fo the Devil (The Rolling Stones)
HEROES (David Bowie)
LOVE SONG
BLUE FILM
Sad Cafe de Aou (サッドカフェで会おう)
Matsu Uta (待つ歌)
Masquerade (マスカレード)
Der Rhein
Nire No Ki No Ue (楡の木の上)
Shizumitai (沈みたい)
Sister Romanoid (シスターローマノイド)
Victoria
Psycho Lizard (サイコ リザード)
Shinkaigyo (深海魚)
Mammoth no Yoru (マンモスの夜)
–ENCORE–
Only you, only love
Fowers
Photography by Yoann CLOCHON
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