The Primals bassist Eikichi Iwai dies suddenly, Square Enix says
Square Enix and Final Fantasy XIV accounts confirmed the news on social media, and fans are holding memorials across the game's servers.
Square Enix announced that Eikichi Iwai, bassist of The Primals, has passed away suddenly. The news was shared on social media by Square Enix and Final Fantasy XIV accounts, with the company stating it was deeply saddened to share the news of his passing.
The Primals are the official band for Final Fantasy XIV, led by composer Masayoshi Soken, and are known for rock arrangements and original music for the game's soundtrack. Iwai's final performance with the group was at Fan Fest Japan earlier this month.
Memorials for Iwai are appearing across multiple Final Fantasy XIV servers as fans gather in-game to remember him. Kotaku reported on the announcement and the fan tributes.
Fan Fest farewell
Final Fantasy Fan Fests are held around the world every year, with a Primals performance as a main attraction. Like Nobuo Uematsu's band the Black Mages, The Primals built a following on rock arrangements of series music alongside original tracks.
Quick answers
Who was Eikichi Iwai?
He was the bassist of The Primals, the official band for Final Fantasy XIV.
When did Eikichi Iwai last perform with The Primals?
His final performance with the band was at Fan Fest Japan earlier this month.
How are fans paying tribute to Eikichi Iwai?
Memorials are appearing across multiple Final Fantasy XIV servers.