“Dancing All Night” Vocalist Yoshinori Monta Dies Aged 72 From Aortic Dissection (UPDATE 1)

Yomiuri Shimbun file photo
Yoshinori Monta in 1990

Singer-songwriter Yoshinori Monta has died at the age of 72, his agency announced Sunday on his blog.

The singer, whose birth name was Yoshinori Kadota, came from Hyogo Prefecture and made his singing debut in 1971. His husky voice left a strong impression, and the hit song “Dancing All Night,” which he composed for his band Monta & Brothers, became a huge hit in 1980.

According to the announcement, Monta died on Wednesday from aortic dissection. His funeral has already been held, attended by family and close acquaintances. A memorial event is being planned for a later date.