Masahiro Ohki, Composer of Soul Blade’s Iconic Edge of Soul, Passes Away at 2024

Masahiro Ohki, the acclaimed music composer better known by his stage name Benten-Maru, has passed away following a battle with illness, leaving an indelible mark on video game music history.

Ohki, renowned for composing 'Edge of Soul', the stirring opening theme to Namco's 1990s PlayStation fighting game Soul Blade, died on October 6, 2024.

The news was first shared by his wife on Facebook last year, but only recently came to wider attention after confirmation from Ohki’s former bandmate, Mickie. Soul Blade, known as Soul Edge in Japan, holds a special place among PlayStation titles for its innovative gameplay and legendary soundtrack.

Released in arcades in 1995 and later on the Sony PlayStation in 1996, the game helped launch Namco's critically acclaimed Soul series, establishing a legacy that would continue with hits such as Soulcalibur. Ohki’s musical journey began as a member of the Japanese rock group A・JYOTA, before transitioning to work with the band KHAN.

In a 2022 email interview, Ohki recounted how Namco approached KHAN for the PlayStation game's soundtrack.

As the principal composer and bandleader, he was responsible for creating both 'Edge of Soul' and the song 'On Our Way Home'.

The lyrics for these tracks were penned by Suzi Kim, with Kazunori Miyake handling arrangement duties. After KHAN disbanded, Ohki maintained a prolific solo career, performing throughout Japan and releasing an album in 2020.

Beyond his work as a performer, he dedicated much of his time to teaching music, sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring musicians. Expressing gratitude for the enduring legacy of his work, Ohki remarked in an interview translated by Liz Buzhouse: "It deeply moves me to know people are still listening to that music after all these years.

Creating something from nothing is always a challenge, but many people contribute to making such things possible.

Especially after this recent pandemic, I offer my encouragement to everyone working hard out there.

Please take care and do your best." Soul Blade’s soundtrack, and especially 'Edge of Soul', remains one of the most celebrated themes in fighting game history, resonating with gamers and music enthusiasts worldwide.

Ohki’s contributions to Namco’s iconic franchise continue to inspire, reflecting the collaborative spirit and creative energy behind classic PlayStation titles. Our deepest condolences go out to Masahiro Ohki’s family, friends, and fans worldwide.

Namco Masahiro Ohki Benten-Maru Soul Blade PlayStation KHAN A JYOTA Suzi Kim Kazunori Miyake Mickie