Hidemitsu Sato, the admired founding member and leader of the rock band COOL'S, passed away on March 17, 2025, at 10:07 AM at the age of 73. The news of his death was announced on March 18 via the band's official website, which stated, "佐藤さんは俳優舘ひろしや岩城滉一らとバイクチーム「クールス」を結成。" (Sato formed the motorcycle team COOL'S with actor Hiroshi Akira and Iwakichen Eichi). His passing marks the end of an era for both the band and the vibrant motorcycle community he influenced.
Sato's health had been declining for some time. He was hospitalized on January 17, 2025, due to unexplained pneumonia and had faced a dire health situation leading to critical condition by January 26. Despite these challenges, he was discharged just earlier this month, on March 7. According to the official statements, a memorial service, affectionately titled "Birthday Ceremony," is set for April 1, 2025, which would have been Sato's 74th birthday.
Founded on December 13, 1974, in Harajuku, Shibuya, COOL'S initially started as a motorcycle team led by Sato with Akira and Iwakichen, before evolving into a celebrated rock band. Sato’s dedication to his Harley Davidson not only showcased his passion for motorcycles but also secured his legacy within both the music and biking communities. He was renowned for his skills as a custom motorcycle builder and had earned respect in the biker circles for organizing events such as the "WANTED BIKER TOURING," uniting Harley enthusiasts across Japan.
Prominent figures from the entertainment industry mourn his loss and celebrate his life. Sato's role transcended music; he was emblematic of a lifestyle that combined rock and motorcycle culture, a community that cherished freedom and artistic expression. The official statement regarding his passing expressed deep gratitude for the warmth shown to him in life and noted the forthcoming memorial ceremony where lovers of rock and bikes are expected to come together in his honor.
This summer, a live house titled "HUNGRY," located in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture, was built exclusively for COOL'S performances. It reflects not just Sato's commitment to music but also his dedication to cultivating the biker culture through meaningful gatherings.
Fans and admirers are left with cherished memories of Sato's spirited performances and his charisma, both on stage as a drummer and off-stage as a beloved figure among bikers. His contributions are not solely recorded in music charts but in the lives of fans who were touched by his art. In 2008, he spearheaded the solo project, "COOLS Hidemitsu with The HUNGRY," further diversifying his influence in the rock genre.
The planned memorial service is expected to attract numerous followers from various domains aligned with the spirit Sato embodied—those who appreciated the blend of rock music with the freedom of the road. This event will serve not just as a farewell but as a celebration of his contributions and the community he helped inspire.
As the date approaches, fans gather their memories, and it is certain that Sato's legacy will live on in the stories shared among motorcycle riders and music lovers alike. Farewell, Hidemitsu Sato; your impact was immense, and your spirit will forever ride along the highways you cherished.
