The Indonesian music industry is in mourning following the death of Ryan Kyoto,a prolific songwriter adn composer whose work defined a generation of Indonesian and Malaysian pop music. Kyoto passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at RS Polri Kramat Jati in Jakarta, according to reports [[1]] and [[2]], leaving behind a catalog of 135 registered songs. Known for hits like “Cinta Jangan Kau Pergi” and contributions to artists such as Chrisye and Ermy Kullit, Kyoto’s passing marks a significant loss for the regional music scene, coming shortly after the recent death of Lucky Element [[2]].
Jakarta – The Indonesian music community is mourning the loss of songwriter Ryan Kyoto, creator of the beloved ballad “Cinta Jangan Kau Pergi,” just as fans were still grieving the recent passing of Lucky Widja.
Kyoto, a prominent musician and songwriter from the 1980s, died on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Ryan Kyoto’s compositions have become iconic staples in the Indonesian and Malaysian music scenes, performed by some of the region’s biggest artists. He is perhaps best known for “Cinta Jangan Kau Pergi,” which was popularized by Sheila Majid around 1997 and remains a classic to this day.
Kyoto also contributed to Chrisye’s 1993 hit, “Sendiri Lagi,” and penned the 1988 Ermy Kullit favorite, “Pasrah.”
Throughout his career, Ryan Kyoto amassed an impressive catalog of 135 registered songs, leaving behind a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians across Indonesia, including a heartfelt message from Sheila Majid.
“Selamat jalan, Mas Ryan. Thank you for your beautiful works that have been an inspiration to all of us,” Majid said, as quoted on Thursday (January 29, 2026).
The news of Kyoto’s death was first announced by the Association of Indonesian Composers (AKSI) via social media, where they expressed their condolences for the loss of the legendary songwriter.
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