Former Sony president and chairman, Norio Ohga has died at the age of 81.

Norio Ohga, who led the company for 13 years, was credited with pioneering the compact disc. He made many key decisions during his presidency, including the Hollywood studios Columbia Pictures, which many criticized as unwise and costly at the time.

But, as a former opera singer, his love of music steered his work. He enriched the electronics business with music, films and video games, which created much of the company's success. He retired in 2000, to spend time with his wife. Sony says a private wake will be held later in his honor.