There are basically two facets to this threads, so I'll list them as separte questions:

1.) Is anyone aware of an interview, or even an online comment on social media, where Tokuhiko "BO" Uwabo (who did the music for Phantasy Star II ) indicated that the band Yellow Magic Orchestra were a pivotal inspiration?

VGMDB's forums even located BO's facebook account, so maybe somebody who can speak Japanses could ask him directly?
http://ja-jp.facebook.com/people/Tok...00001911583963

2.) The specific reason I'm asking, is due to the similarity between the song "Rydeen" by Yellow Magic Orchestra:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nv5jMLJQ9f4

And both the "Rise Or Fall" battle theme, as well as the boss theme "Place Of Death":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5hQn3nh198

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWacjSk52pA

Which, to my ears, bear a strong influence to the earlier song from the late 1970s.

So, hopefully, without any negative connotations, I can bring this up in a respectful fashion.
After-all, once I was introduced to "Rydeen", I enjoyed it BECAUSE of the similarity to the heroically propulsive battle-themes!
"Rydeen" feels even more triumphant & self-confident, if that's possible!

Anyone else feel the same way?