If you look at the people who were behind the successes of vocalists Kikuko Inoue, Yui Horie, and Megumi Hayashibara, you would see Ritsuko Okazaki among the crowd. Travelling the Galactic Railroad at only 44 years old, she leaves behind many notable contributions to the world of music.

In addition to her many contributions as a lyricist, Ms. Okazaki also performed as a recording artist, with a solo album titled Life is Lovely, and she released another album with Megumi Hinata titled Melodic Hard Cure, under the group name of Melocure. Her voice was like no other - always soft and gentle.

She also lent her voice to anime, in the opener songs of Fruits Basket, Princess TuTu, and Stratos 4. She's done it all for various anime: composition, lyrics, and vocal performance. Her credits include the titles Love Hina, UFO Princess Walküre, and Sister Princess, to name a few.

Though it was a shock to fans and the industry to see her go at such a young age, her legacy will show her identity for years to come.

And as the flames climbed high into the night To light the sacrificial rite I saw Satan laughing with delight The day the music died.   - Don McLean, "American Pie"

Rest in peace, Ritsuko Okazaki. You will be missed.