Articles by "XJapan"
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YOSHIKI will create a special musical performance to celebrate the Grand Opening of Japan House Los Angeles at Hollywood & Highland on Friday, August 24th.

Japan House Los Angeles is a premiere venue designed to showcase Japan’s art, culture, business, technology, and entertainment to help strengthen cultural ties between Japan and the world. YOSHIKI serves as an advisor for Japan House along with honorary advisor Larry Ellison. With facilities in London and São Paulo, this will be the first time Japan House will open its doors in L.A.

YOSHIKI has been invited to give a special congratulatory performance at the unveiling of the newly-completed facility, which will include a special cocktail reception and a seated dinner with international government, business, and cultural leaders, including the Ministry officials of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the Consul General of Japan, and celebrities.

Demonstrating his commitment to the mission of Japan House, YOSHIKI personally made arrangements for a limited number of American fans to attend the private event in the unique, intimate setting in Hollywood. YOSHIKI announced the invitation today on his official Instagram, and applications for the rare passes surpassed the capacity limit just minutes after he posted the news.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl_rOIEgI3H/

YOSHIKI’s performance at Japan House Los Angeles will take place just hours before he returns to Japan to appear on a major TV program in Japan which has not been announced yet.

Yoshiki will then begin his second set of sold-out dinner shows “EVENING WITH YOSHIKI 2018 IN TOKYO JAPAN 6 DAYS 5TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL”. He began the anniversary shows last month, and this 2nd half will complete the 10 shows over 6 days, which also includes his charity fundraising through his 501(c)(3) Yoshiki Foundation America.

Japan House Los Angeles: https://www.japanhouse.jp/losangeles/.
2:24 PM
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YOSHIKI gave fans a special preview of his new theme song for the anime series Attack on Titan on his official Instagram page, revealing the clip of "Red Swan" by "YOSHIKI feat. HYDE" along with a montage of imagery from the anime’s third season which begins July 22 on NHK in Japan.

The new song, featuring YOSHIKI’s first-ever recording collaboration with vocalist HYDE (L’Arc~en~Ciel), was announced at Anime Expo on July 8 while still in progress. The "TV Edit" of the song will be released on digital platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, RecoChoku, and others on July 23. A CD release is planned for autumn from Pony Canyon.

"What can I do to make this a song a world-wide hit?" said YOSHIKI during his July 20 appearance on YOSHIKI Channel. "I was desperately wondering, "What is the missing element that could make this the best song and the best album? How long will I be fighting in life? When will I be able to say to myself, "Well done?" And those struggles brought this song — "Red Swan" — to life."

During the broadcast, YOSHIKI also gave a surprise piano performance of the new song, and expressed his thanks to his collaborators. "I’m extremely grateful to X JAPAN’s members, HYDE, and the production committee that invited me to contribute to this story."

This is YOSHIKI’s second contribution to an anime soundtrack this decade, following 2014′s "Hero", from the animated film Saint Seiya: Legend of Sanctuary. YOSHIKI has previously appeared on stage with HYDE, with whom he shares a deep public and private friendship and mutual artistic respect, at large-scale music events such as VISUAL JAPAN SUMMIT and VAMPS’ HALLOWEEN PARTY, but "Red Swan" is their first attempt at collaborating on a piece of music, and the song is also a contender to appear on X JAPAN’s upcoming album — the band’s first studio release in 22 years — which includes other international guest artists such as Marilyn Manson.

YOSHIKI’s Official Instagram (Video):
Red Swan by YOSHIKI feat. HYDE
https://www.instagram.com/p/Blc2FNRHDyM.
12:37 AM
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YOSHIKI has announced a solo performance at this year’s LUNATIC FEST 2018, to be held at Makuhari Messe on June 24.

YOSHIKI made the reveal with a video message in English and Japanese on his official Instagram account, found HERE where he promised special surprises for his appearance at the visual kei music festival produced by the band LUNA SEA. The announcement came a mere ten days before the day of the performance, and YOSHIKI will make an emergency trip back to Japan from Los Angeles, where he’s currently finishing work on X JAPAN’s upcoming album.

This will be the first time YOSHIKI has performed solo at a music festival. Starting with a his classical performance at L.A.’s Grammy Museum in 2014, YOSHIKI has been holding solo concerts in dozens of countries throughout the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. His upcoming appearance at LUNATIC FEST will be his first solo outing since his two sold-out Yoshiki Classical concerts at New York’s Carnegie Hall last year.

YOSHIKI commented, “I’m sorry to all the fans who were hoping for X JAPAN to perform. This time I will be performing solo, but I’d like to do my best to bring energy to LUNATIC FEST for my precious friends in LUNA SEA. I promise to impress you. Please be cheering for me.”

A select number of event tickets for the June 24 LUNATIC FEST concert are now available exclusively for YOSHIKI Fan Club members. YOSHIKI CHANNEL right HERE will also broadcast live from YOSHIKI’s dressing room on the day of the performance.

LUNATIC FEST 2018 Official Website: http://lunaticfest.com.
10:40 AM
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X JAPAN has announced that it will perform a pair of solo concerts to commemorate the 10th anniversary of their re-unification -- "X JAPAN LIVE 2018 pre-American music festival appearance PREMIUM GIGS ~ YOSHIKI: A Night Of Resurrection ~" -- on April 10 and 11 at Zepp DiverCity (Tokyo).

On March 8, X JAPAN leader YOSHIKI (drums, piano) appeared live from Los Angeles via his "YOSHIKI CHANNEL" broadcast on the NicoNico live-streaming service. The program, titled "X JAPAN Breaking News ~ YOSHIKI makes a sudden appearance from overseas ~", featured YOSHIKI himself announcing the concert dates. Scheduled special guests include Richard Fortus (Guns N’ Roses) and Wes Borland (Limp Bizkit), who performed with X JAPAN in three reunion shows at the Tokyo Dome in March 2008.

X JAPAN is scheduled to perform on April 14 and 21 at the Coachella 2018 Music Festival in Indio, California. Since YOSHIKI’s return from surgery last year, this series of concerts will be his first full stage performances on drums. During the broadcast, YOSHIKI said that he would play drums as much he can be allowed, and that these performances would be a test of his resolve.

Tickets to "X JAPAN LIVE 2018 Pre-American Music Festival Appearance PREMIUM GIGS ~ YOSHIKI: A Night Of Resurrection ~" will be available starting today via the fan clubs for each respective member of X JAPAN. In addition, remote live viewing theatrical broadcasts of the concert will take place on April 11 in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea.

"X JAPAN LIVE 2018 pre-American music festival appearance PREMIUM GIGS ~ YOSHIKI: A Night Of Resurrection"
Concert dates: April 10 (Tuesday), 11 (Wednesday), 2018
Venue: Zepp DiverCity
Doors open: 6:00 p.m. Performance begins: 7:00 p.m.
*Special guests: Richard Fortus (Guns N’ Roses) and Wes Borland (Limp Bizkit)

Information (Japanese): http://www.yoshiki-mobile.jp.

VIDEO: "Yoshiki’s return to drums! X Japan to perform at Coachella 2018"
https://youtu.be/YcRTKVW5tgM.


"X JAPAN LIVE 2018 Pre-American Music Festival Appearance PREMIUM GIGS ~ YOSHIKI: A Night Of Resurrection" LIVE VIEWING
Date: April 11, 2018 (Wednesday) Performance begins at 7:00 p.m.
Venues: Movie theaters throughout Japan nationwide, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea.
*Door opening times will vary depending on the theater.
Prices (Japan): All seats reserved: ¥4,800 (tax included)

Theater and ticket information will be announced as soon as they are confirmed. Please check websites for information.

X JAPAN – JAPAN LIVE VIEWING information
(Japanese) http://liveviewing.jp/xjapan2018.
(English) http://liveviewing.jp/xjapan2018-eng.

Planning/Sponsored by: Japan Music Agency
Distribution: Live Viewing Japan
9:40 PM
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X Japan’s 2017 London concert has been crowned "Best Event" at The SSE Arena, Wembley in the SSE Live Awards. Over one million votes were placed across SSE’s three sponsored venues to determine this year’s winner.

The X Japan World Tour came out on top after securing over 36% of the public vote from an impressive selection of 68 events.

The most successful rock band in Japanese history treated the audience to an exclusive 60-minute cut of their documentary film, We Are X, which premiered at the previous year’s Sundance Festival, followed by over three hours of live performance.

In their biggest UK show to date, they not only covered the fan favorites but also paid tribute to English singer and songwriter David Bowie with a selection of cover songs.

"We’re so grateful for the support of our fans, and it’s an honor to receive this award," said X Japan founder and drummer Yoshiki. "X Japan will try to return after our Coachella performance this year to come back and rock the UK again. Looking forward to seeing you all."

Check out SSE Wembley Arena’s announcement video:
https://twitter.com/ssearena/status/964107035854848001
https://www.facebook.com/ssearena/videos/10155247516427517

Colin Banks, Head of Sponsorship & Reward for SSE, said: "We have again been overwhelmed by the passion of fans in this year’s SSE Live Awards. The range of events across all three venues has never been wider and has shown that there really is something for everybody. Whether it was sharing videos and gifs on social media to back their favorite act, to encouraging other fans to join in, the events’ supporters really made their voices heard."

"Congratulations to all involved with the X Japan World Tour that took place at The Arena, Wembley in March. It really was an incredible night and they are a deserved winner."

WATCH: Yoshiki’s drum solo at Wembley Arena: https://youtu.be/RCpJ6jqrXxM.
4:26 PM
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YOSHIKI and Nobel Prize winner Shinya Yamanaka have joined together for a special video interview in support of the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Launched by the Tokyo Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in August, the “ONE TEAM PROJECT” is an endeavor to inspire and build enthusiasm for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, led by a unified team of the most important creators and innovators of Japan.

In the third edition of the Committee’s special programs, titled “A Prelude to 2020″, X Japan leader YOSHIKI and Professor Shinya Yamanaka, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine and Director of the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, engage in a deep conversation about the upcoming Olympic events and the personal significance of the year 2020.

VIDEO (with English subtitles):
https://youtu.be/oA8JH91srE8

VIDEO (making of)
https://youtu.be/nHZjLIyFJJY

LINK:
https://participation.tokyo2020.jp/jp/oneteam/03.html

Leaders in their respective fields, the passionate conversation between YOSHIKI and Professor Yamanaka (who also has experience running full marathons) covers topics such as Yamanaka’s goals for IPS research, parallels between their personal ambitions and the training goals of the Olympic athletes, and YOSHIKI’s goal of helping Asian musicians become more prominent in the fields of rock and classical music. The second half of the video also includes a live piano performance by YOSHIKI of X Japan’s famous song “Forever Love”.

ABOUT THE “ONE TEAM PROJECT”

The goal of the “ONE TEAM PROJECT” is to cultivate anticipation and a desire to engage and participate, led by a unified team of the leading cultural influencers and artists of Japan who will inspire and build enthusiasm towards the Games, together as “ONE TEAM.” The first edition featured the Kabuki actor Ebizo Ichikawa, and the second edition featured the participation of the Kyogen stage actor Mansai Nomura and the karateka Kiyou Shimizu.

The “ONE TEAM PROJECT – A Prelude to 2020″ discussion event became a reality when YOSHIKI and Professor Yamanaka (with whom YOSHIKI has a close personal friendship) both gave their approval of the endeavor’s aims and goals. Both men perceive the year 2020, when the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games are to be held, as a major turning point for themselves personally as well. The objective of this video — featuring two globally prolific leaders passionately talking about their goals and sentiments — aims for viewers to express their own ambitions and passions for the year 2020, and enhance anticipation towards these future tournaments.

Comment from YOSHIKI: “By the year 2020, I want to be recognized as both a globally relevant musician and a Japanese person. This opportunity to confirm my goals for 2020 together with Professor Yamanaka has reinvigorated my resolve. To the athletes who aspire to compete in 2020 in Tokyo, I’m behind them with all my heart as a fellow comrade who is chasing his dreams. And I hope the viewers of this video will also share the same hopes and dreams. We are ONE TEAM.”

Comment from Professor Yamanaka: “This opportunity has reaffirmed to me that the year 2020 is — for myself as well as for the Japanese people — an extremely important year. Personally, as a sports lover, as a Japanese person, I am looking even more forward to the 2020 Tokyo Games. I hope that this video can help to enhance anticipation for the 2020 Tokyo Games for as many people as possible. Experiencing YOSHIKI’s live performance was truly a moment of bliss for me.”
3:42 PM
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X JAPAN leader YOSHIKI returned to Paris, France, on October 24th for his final day of a marathon tour promoting the European premiere of award-winning documentary, We Are X.

YOSHIKI will immediately return to Japan to appear at the HALLOWEEN PARTY 2017 concert event at Makuhari Messe on October 29th presented by VAMPS. Next week, on November 3rd, YOSHIKI CHANNEL (ranked first among artist channels on Japan’s largest video site “NicoNico”) will broadcast a visit to the new YOSHIKIMONO exhibition and present a guest performance from Wagakki Band.

YOSHIKI began the We Are X European promotion tour on October 12th in Berlin, Germany, traveling to 11 cities in 10 countries in just under 2 weeks. Including multiple Q&A sessions with fans at sold-out screenings, YOSHIKI maintained an intensely packed daily schedule totaling over 130 interviews for international television, web, and print media.

Still recovering from his surgery months ago, YOSHIKI followed doctor’s orders and had to cancel his Iceland premiere appearance to avoid further strain from overworking. Expressing his regret for the last-minute cancellation, YOSHIKI sent hundreds of signed photos to his fans who had gathered to see him in Iceland, showing his appreciation for their support.

After a few days rest, YOSHIKI returned to Paris as scheduled to complete the Europe tour, broadcasting on YOSHIKI CHANNEL and resuming his full interview schedule, even making appearances on the talk and weather segments of France’s most famous TV channel “TF1.”

Following YOSHIKI’s television appearance, it was announced that over 50 theaters in Paris alone will screen We Are X as a result of YOSHIKI’s promotional efforts.

“At the beginning of my career, I traveled around Japan for promotion, and now I’m doing the same thing around the world. I’m really beginning to understand how big this world is,” YOSHIKI said as he completed his final day of European tour. “I’m going to work hard to get X JAPAN back on stage again.” YOSHIKI is currently finalizing X JAPAN’s first studio album in over 21 years. “It’s almost finished, except for a few guest artists tracks,” he assured interviewers. “Get ready for it.”

The Limited Edition We Are X DVD/Vinyl Soundtrack bundle is now available from PledgeMusic.com - https://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/wearex.

YOSHIKI CHANNEL
https://secure.ch.nicovideo.jp/bylaw/ch2612527

November 3rd (Friday) 4:00 p.m. ~ 7:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m. ~ 4:30 p.m. YOSHIKIMONO Exhibition
6:00 p.m. ~ 7:00 p.m. YOSHIKI x Wagakki Band Performance

TOUR DATES:

October 12 – Berlin, Germany
October 14 – Florence, Italy
October 15 – Vienna, Austria
October 16 – Amsterdam, Holland
October 17 – Oslo, Norway
October 18 – Helsinki, Finland
October 19 – Stockholm, Sweden
October 20 – London, UK
October 21 – Reykjavik, Iceland (cancelled)
October 24 – Paris, France
11:34 AM
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On October 9, 2017, YOSHIKI donated $100,000.00 to help get immediate aid to hurricane victims in the United States and its territories. YOSHIKI delivered the check in New York to MusiCares®, a charity of the Recording Academy™ via Jennifer Leff, LCSW Senior Director, Health & Human Services. The donation will be funded immediately to MusiCares’s current hurricane relief efforts through Yoshiki Foundation America 501(c)(3). 100% of all donations to Musicares go directly to people in need.

“I’m from Japan but I live in America,” YOSHIKI said. “When Japan got hit by the Tsunami Earthquake in 2011, the people of America supported Japan. I was really moved by that, so I’d like to keep supporting America as much as I can. My heart goes out to all those who are affected.”

http://www.yoshikifoundationamerica.org

The donation ceremony followed a Q&A with YOSHIKI and a special screening of WE ARE X, the award-winning documentary about X JAPAN — one of the most successful rock bands in Japanese history — at the Bryant Park Hotel in New York City.

WE ARE X has been released in a limited edition DVD and Vinyl soundtrack bundle now available worldwide through PledgeMusic: https://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/wearex.

YOSHIKI is currently touring 10 countries in Europe for WE ARE X theatrical premieres.
8:28 AM
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Backed by a live orchestra, Yoshiki was invited to perform the closing song at TV Asahi’s “Music Station Ultra Fes 2017″ on Monday, September 18th. Playing a special arrangement of the X Japan masterpiece, “Forever Love ‘Life, Death, and Love…’ Piano with Orchestra Version”, which was prepared specifically for this day, Yoshiki brought an emotional finale to the 10-hour long special program which featured a total of 57 artists.

Marking the first time an instrumental piece without vocals had ever closed the special television event, Yoshiki’s first musical performance on television since his surgery had received a lot of media attention since its announcement. He appeared on stage without his neck brace, showing the painful scars from his surgery four months ago.

As he performed on the TV Asahi stage, a powerful montage of images — Yoshiki flying around the world, his energetic drumming, the deaths of his band members, his own neck surgery, his career with X Japan, and his personal history — played in the background, triggering comments on social media such as “I have goosebumps… riveting”, “Yoshiki is so amazing!”, and “I can’t stop crying” as fans expressed their awe and praise for the elegant musical presentation which climaxed in a shower of rose petals.

Afterward, Yoshiki returned immediately to Los Angeles to work on the final touches of the soon-to-be-released X Japan album. Later, in October, he is scheduled to tour a total of 10 countries to promote the European theatrical premieres of the award-winning documentary film, We Are X.

After the television performance, Yoshiki commented: “I still have sharp pain in my neck, but as my doctor said, moving forward is a part of rehab. I’m thankful for the opportunity I was given. And I want to thank the fans who are always supporting me.”

TOUR DATES:

October 12 – Berlin, Germany
October 14 – Florence, Italy
October 15 – Vienna, Austria
October 16 – Amsterdam, Holland
October 17 – Oslo, Norway
October 18 – Helsinki, Finland
October 19 – Stockholm, Sweden
October 20 – London, UK
October 21 – Reykjavik, Iceland
October 24 – Paris, France
9:00 AM
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Passion Pictures and X Japan have announced that the critically acclaimed film WE ARE X about Japan’s most successful rock band of all time will be released theatrically across Europe this October.

The film’s chart-topping soundtrack which boasts an impressive selection of X Japan’s back catalog and the newly-released theme song, “La Venus”, is currently available through Sony Music’s Legacy Recordings (a division of Sony Music Entertainment).

Directed by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Stephen Kijak (Stones in Exile, Scott Walker: 30 Century Man), and produced by the Oscar-winning production team behind Searching for Sugar Man, WE ARE X is an astonishingly intimate portrait of a deeply haunted, but truly unstoppable virtuoso and the music that has enthralled legions of the world’s most devoted fans. It was officially selected for the Sundance Film Festival, SXSW and the BFI London Film Festival, winning multiple awards and critical praise from New York Times, MTV UK, Classic Rock Magazine, and many more.

Hailed as “The most dramatic rock story you’ve never heard” by MTV UK, WE ARE X is a transcendent and beautifully shot rock & roll story about the most successful rock band in Japanese history, X JAPAN. They’ve sold over 30 million albums, singles and videos combined, sold out Japan’s 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome a record 18 times, and played to tens of thousands of fans outside of Japan. Under the enigmatic direction of YOSHIKI — composer, classically-trained pianist, drummer, and the creative force behind the group —- X JAPAN has captivated a wide range of admirers as Sir George Martin, KISS, Stan Lee and the Japanese Emperor, while pioneering a spectacle-driven style of visual rock called “Visual Kei”, a one-of-a-kind cultural phenomenon.

Yoshiki’s significance in Japan is illustrated on the October cover of Vogue Japan. He is the first Japanese male ever selected for the cover in the magazine’s 18-year history.

Yoshiki will be travelling across select territories in Europe in October 2017 to promote the film. Yoshiki says, “I am very excited to come to Europe this October and bring the extraordinary story of X Japan to new and old fans alike. This was a difficult film for us to make but it’s a story we believe needed to be told. I can’t wait for Europe to finally see the film and to meet our European fans.”

TOUR DATES:

October 12 – Berlin, Germany
October 14 – Florence, Italy
October 16 – Amsterdam, Holland
October 17 – Oslo, Norway
October 18 – Helsinki, Finland
October 19 – Stockholm, Sweden
October 20 – London, UK
October 21 – Reykjavik, Iceland
October 24 – Paris, France
9:28 PM
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On September 9, 2017, YOSHIKI made a special guest appearance during the opening ceremonies of VOGUE FASHION’S NIGHT OUT 2017, sponsored by Condé Nast Japan. The surprise performance was kept secret until 1 hour before the event, when YOSHIKI made the announcement on his official Instagram.

As soon as the information was released, the high-fashion Omotesando Hills shopping center immediately filled with over 3400 people who wanted to get a glimpse of YOSHIKI’s performance. Upon his arrival on stage, the excited crowd erupted with cheers and camera flashes.

Playing a crystal piano, YOSHIKI entranced the audience with “Forever Love” and “ENDLESS RAIN”, two of X JAPAN’s most famous songs. As he reached the climax of “ENDLESS RAIN”, the crowd joined with the chorus, transforming Omotesando Hills into a YOSHIKI concert hall.

YOSHIKI’s photo shoot for the October issue of VOGUE JAPAN — the first time that a Japanese male has ever graced the cover — took place only 3 weeks after his surgery in May for cervical artificial disc replacement. He had been rehabilitating in Los Angeles, yet swiftly flew to New York for the shoot. During his interview after the performance, YOSHIKI spoke about his experiences receiving the cover model offer. “It was truly a high honor, and a very worthwhile challenge for me. But it came only 3 weeks after my surgery, so it felt like heaven and hell were both happening to me at the same time!”

VOGUE JAPAN Editor-In-Chief Mitsuko Watanabe spoke about the sensation sparked across the globe by YOSHIKI’s appearance on the cover, which has been “causing a lot of buzz in fashion industries around the world.”

YOSHIKI has added yet another achievement to his outstanding music career with his performance at the opening ceremonies in one of the world’s largest shopping events, VOGUE FASHION’S NIGHT OUT. YOSHIKI recently concluded his sold-out dinner show tour in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, and has just been announced as a special guest on “MUSIC STATION ULTRA FES 2017″ (to be aired on September 18) before he begins his We Are X film promotion tour in Europe early next month.
5:34 PM
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On Saturday, September 2nd, “EVENING WITH YOSHIKI 2017 IN NAGOYA & OSAKA & TOKYO JAPAN” ushered in its final day at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo. The sold-out tour, which began with a first-ever set in Nagoya, moved on to Osaka and Tokyo for a total of 7 shows, including the addition of a last-minute breakfast show to meet the overwhelming demand to witness a rare, intimate YOSHIKI performance. The Grand Hyatt Tokyo Ballroom — having undergone 2 months of extensive renovations — was unveiled for the first time for the YOSHIKI dinner show,where 2,400 pendant LED lights (a first-ever arrangement for a hotel in Japan) glittered brilliantly.

Guests were greeted by the sight of an illuminated drum set and a crystal piano. At the entrance to the venue were two enormous panels, displaying an image of YOSHIKI performing at a piano and a towering reproduction of YOSHIKI’s cover image of Vogue Japan, which went on sale August 28th and garnered enormous media attention for being the first time a Japanese male has ever graced the magazine’s cover. The tables were set with a beautiful, finely prepared dinner menu created under YOSHIKI’s personal supervision, and guests were treated to YOSHIKI’s original wine, several original souvenirs specially prepared for the event, and limited edition dinner show merchandise.

Also present at the ornately-decorated venue were a number of international and cultural celebrities, including Japanese actress Kaori Momoi, former U.S. and U.K. ambassadors, and representatives from the talent industry and American talent agencies. Several VIP guests from all walks of life attended as well, such as Professor Shinya Yamanaka (Director of the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application at Kyoto University) and sumo wrestler Hakuho, a testament to YOSHIKI’s ability to bridge countries and cultures, culminating in a performance that reflected his broad international appeal.

The concert began with “THE LAST SONG,” which was performed as the final song of X JAPAN’s last concert in 1997. Other famous songs representing the X JAPAN era included “Forever Love, ” Without You,” and the theme song from the documentary film WE ARE X (scheduled for its long-awaited release on Blu-ray and DVD in Japan on December 13). In addition, epic-scale songs crafted by YOSHIKI, such as the theme song to the 69th Golden Globe Awards show, “I’ll Be Your Love” (the official image song for The 2005 World Expo), and “Anniversary” (composed in honor of the tenth anniversary of Emperor Akihito’s enthronement), were accompanied by strings and guest vocalists Ashley Knight and Katie Fitzgerald. During the request segment of the show, he performed songs such as “Silent Jealousy” and “X”. The finale was “ENDLESS RAIN”, played to a rousing chorus amidst the glittering, beautiful light of mirror balls. With a total of 15 songs, the final concert completed the tour in grand style.

In addition, the night included several unforgettable moments, such as a fashion show with models dressed in splendid YOSHIKIMONOs, an appearance by Yoshikitty, and various surprises (such as YOSHIKI suddenly appearing at the tables to greet his audience) that would fill the hall with screams of delight.

The highlight of these dinner shows was the close communication between the performer and his fans made possible by the intimacy of the venue. As YOSHIKI himself remarked during his MC segments, seeing his audience from so close was a rare and new experience for him as well.

This year’s charity auction featured a total of 26 items from all 7 dinner shows (including 5 items from this final performance), earning a total of ¥41.59 million in bids. This year’s offerings featured personal items and outfits worn in photo shoots. With the news of flooding in the state of Texas caused by the recent hurricane, YOSHIKI expressed his desire to donate proceeds from this auction to the rescue and rebuilding efforts. The money raised from this event will go to the U.S. 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation “YOSHIKI FOUNDATION AMERICA”, which he continues to operate in an effort to fulfill a wide range of services.

Still suffering from pain caused by his surgeries, YOSHIKI was accompanied at this year’s dinner shows by a doctor at each stop, with the utmost care being given to his physical health. Even through his discomfort, however, YOSHIKI endeavors to push forward, saying, “There are walls which need to be broken.” Immediately after completing “EVENING WITH YOSHIKI 2017,” he is scheduled to fly to Europe for a WE ARE X promotional tour. With no time to rest, his days of traveling around the world are about to begin again.

Remarking that, “Life should be about how many wonderful memories you can impress into your soul,” YOSHIKI completed this 7-concert tour with the hopes that these dinner shows would provide lasting memories for all of his fans.

EVENING WITH YOSHIKI 2017 IN TOKYO
September 2, 2017 (Sold Out)
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
SETLIST:

1. Amethyst (Strings)
2. The Last Song
3. Forever Love
4. Golden Globe
5. Hero
6. Hello Kitty Theme
7. Anniversary
8. Swan Lake
9. Longing
10. I’ll be Your Love
11. La Venus
12. Kurenai
13. Miracle
14. Without You
15. Art of Life
16. Endless Rain
8:50 AM
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Yoshiki made a sudden return to Japan on June 20th (Tuesday), and held a press conference in Tokyo. During the press conference, Yoshiki personally revealed details of his upcoming tour.

Despite the last-minute notice, hundreds of fans selected from the fan club attended the press conference. When Yoshiki, who had landed in Japan that morning, appeared wearing a protective neck brace, the fans cheered and screamed and some had tears in their eyes.

Yoshiki announced that the upcoming X Japan tour would feature a screening of the special, 60-minute edition of the film We Are X which debuted at the Wembley Arena show in March earlier this year. Screenings will begin one hour before the concert, and the concert itself is scheduled to last over two hours. Yoshiki personally disclosed ongoing discussions about whether to include old songs such as “Rose of Pain” and “Unfinished” in the set list as well as the fact that a string section will accompany him on stage.
　
Physiotherapist Carl Dunstan also arrived in Japan from the UK and will be accompanying the band throughout the tour to ensure that Yoshiki, who is only a few weeks post-surgery, will be able to complete the performances.

Mr. Dunstan belongs to the physiotherapist organization Atherapy, which counts numerous renowned artists and actors such as U2 and the Red Hot Chili Peppers among its clients, and is himself an accomplished professional who was Daniel Craig’s exclusive physiotherapist during production of the 007 film Spectre and has treated many other famous actors and musicians. He was able to accompany the tour thanks to an introduction from Larry Mullen, Jr., the drummer for U2, with whom Yoshiki is acquainted.

​Furthermore, it was revealed that the plans for the Yoshiki Premium Dinner Show 2017, which begins August 26th, had designated from its inception that 150,000 dollars (approximately 18 million yen) of the sales would be donated to charity, and that the staging of the show itself was decided upon with these plans in mind. The donations will go to the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, which is one of the top two music schools in the U.S. Shelly Berg, the school’s dean, is also responsible for the string arrangement for the X Japan tour and the quartet arrangement for the Dinner Show. The donation will be used to help musicians of the future create the next era of music.

There were also moments in the press conference where Yoshiki described his experience of going through rehabilitation. “I don’t know if I will be able to play the drums again. Even if I am able to do so, it may be impossible to perform with the same intensity as before. I can’t even say for sure, at this point, whether I would do so if I could.” These words clearly express his turbulent emotions following a major surgery.

“If there were no X Japan reunion, I would not have had surgery twice. But the time put into the reunion and the challenge of taking on the world are worthwhile. I do not regret it. And I will not stop until I break down the wall.” As a result of the dangerous surgery, Yoshiki said he often thought about the direction of his life.

Yet, having overcome that surgery with the support of myriad members and fans, and with the goal of completing the Japan tour serving as a kind of fuel, he has decided to “show the best of myself on stage.” No doubt Yoshiki’s resolve will be engraved into history by six miraculous nights.

Due to changes in the style of the X Japan tour performances, those who wish to do so can apply for a refund of their ticket purchase at the Udo Music Office website: http://udo.jp

X JAPAN WORLD TOUR 2017 WE ARE X Acoustic Special Miracle 6 DAYS

TOUR DATES:

July 11 – Osaka-jo Hall
July 12 – Osaka-jo Hall
July 14 – Yokohama Arena
July 15 – Yokohama Arena
July 16 – Yokohama Arena
July 17 – Yokohama Arena

YOSHIKI PREMIUM DINNER SHOW 2017:

August 26 – Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
August 27 – Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
August 29 – The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
August 30 – The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
September 1 – Grand Hyatt Tokyo
September 2 – Grand Hyatt Tokyo
10:07 AM
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X Japan will be doing various activities leading up to their big showcase happening out in the U.K.! Check out the list of events and activities below.

Mar 2 - "We Are X" opens in theaters across Great Britain!

UK tickets: http://wearexfilm.co.uk/

Mar 3 - Worldwide "We Are X" soundtrack release

iTunes: http://smarturl.it/WeAreX_iTunes

Amazon: http://smarturl.it/WeareX_amz

Mar 3 - X Japan In-Store Signing Event at HMV London

http://www.hmv.com/hmvlive/x-japan

(sold out - but Yoshiki says fans can come by to say "Hi" anyway!)

Mar 4 - X Japan Wembley Arena Concert!

Tickets: http://bit.ly/XJapanWembley

(* new concert promo video: https://youtu.be/-vMFtJOwKII )

(* new band comment video: https://youtu.be/ICf2Kjn_U0s )

Mar 4 - Limited Edition "We Are X" Soundtrack Package available only at Wembley Arena on March 4

3 Collectible Slipcases + X Japan Photo Card Set

Info & images: https://www.facebook.com/XJapan/posts/1209964342386083

TAGS:

@yoshikiofficial
@xjapanofficial
@yoshiki_staff
#XDAY
#WEAREX
#YOSHIKI
#XJAPAN
12:40 PM
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The soundtrack for the film WE ARE X -- the critically acclaimed music documentary about X JAPAN -- will be released worldwide on March 3, 2017, via Sony Music’s Legacy Recordings (a division of Sony Music Entertainment) and is available for pre-order now at Amazon. http://bit.ly/WeAreX_CD

Hailed as “fascinating” by the New York Times, WE ARE X is a transcendent and beautifully shot rock & roll story about the most successful rock band in Japanese history, X JAPAN. They’ve sold over 30 million albums, singles and videos combined; sold out Japan’s 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome a record 18 times; and played to tens of thousands of fans outside of Japan. Under the enigmatic direction of YOSHIKI -- composer, classically-trained pianist, drummer and the creative force behind the group -- X JAPAN has captivated a wide range of admirers as Sir George Martin, KISS, Stan Lee, and the Japanese Emperor-while pioneering a spectacle-driven style of rock music called Visual Kei, a one-of-a-kind cultural phenomenon.

VIDEO: WE ARE X Japanese Trailer (opening March 3)
https://youtu.be/S8T1zFMeU7M

In late 2016, WE ARE X was released to theaters across America after winning multiple awards at the Sundance and SXSW Film Festivals. Directed by acclaimed documentarian Stephen Kijak (Stones in Exile, Scott Walker: 30 Century Man), and produced by the Oscar-winning production team  behind  Searching for Sugar Man, WE ARE X is an astonishingly intimate portrait of a deeply haunted -- but truly unstoppable -- virtuoso and the music that has enthralled legions of the world's most devoted fans.

Up next, X JAPAN -- YOSHIKI/drums, piano; TOSHI/vocals; PATA/guitar; HEATH/bass; and SUGIZO/guitar, violin -- will perform their first major show of 2017 on #XDAY, Saturday, March 4 at SSE Arena, Wembley in London. Later in March, the WE ARE X film will premiere in London and officially open in theaters across the U.K. The film continues to expand internationally in new cities every week; and will arrive on Blu-Ray™, DVD and Digital HD on April 25 from Magnolia Home Entertainment under the Magnet label in the U.S., Bermuda and Bahamas

Tickets for X Japan's concert on #XDAY March 4th at SSE Arena, Wembley are available at: http://bit.ly/XJapanWembley

VIDEO: X Japan - Wembley Arena - March 4, 2017
https://youtu.be/rbDOqwN5Vb4

TRACKLISTING:

1. La Venus (Acoustic Version)*
2. Kurenai (from The Last Live)
3. Forever Love
4. A Piano String in Es Dur
5:46 PM
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“YOSHIKI Classical Special with Orchestra - HONG KONG”, originally scheduled to take place at AsiaWorld-Expo Arena on Thursday, December 29th, was cancelled due to an oversight by Puffin Entertainment, one of Hong Kong’s major local promoters, in applying for the entertainment license necessary to perform the show. Immediately following the cancellation announcement, Yoshiki himself negotiated with the venue and held a press conference shortly after.

Since the entertainment license for paid concerts takes weeks to complete, Yoshiki proposed that the concert would take place the next day (December 30th) free of charge, and that all 5,000 tickets purchased will be refunded as compensation not only to the people who came to the show from Hong Kong but also to those who traveled internationally to see the performance. Yoshiki also expressed his sympathy towards the promoter by saying it wasn’t an intentional mistake and that he really appreciated the promoter’s hard work. The ticket price for the concert ranged from HK $580-1280 (appx. $75-165 USD).
   
Since over 6,000 people showed up to the complimentary concert, the stage plan had to be adjusted accordingly. It was Yoshiki’s idea to allow an additional guest per each concert ticket to make up for all the trouble this incident had caused his fans. The audience included many VIPS in attendance, such as celebrities and high-ranking government officials, all offering words of praise after the concert. Yoshiki performed each and every song that was scheduled for the previous day’s show. In addition, when Yoshiki and the orchestra performed a surprise song “Hoi Fut Tin Hung”, a famous hit by Hong Kong’s popular band “Beyond”, the audience’s applause and tears reached a climax. The public concert ended on an emotional note, with a huge chorus by the entire audience singing “Endless Rain”.

Yoshiki will perform “YOSHIKI CLASSICAL SPECIAL feat. Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra” at Carnegie Hall in New York City, January 12th and 13th, 2017.

YOSHIKI Classical Special with Orchestra – Hong Kong
December 30th, 2016 @ AsiaWorld-Expo Arena

1st Set
1. I'LL BE YOUR LOVE (Theme of World Expo)
2. LAST SONG
3. FOREVER LOVE
4. GOLDEN GLOBE THEME
5. HERO
6. LA VENUS
7. ANNIVERSARY

2nd Set
8. TEARS
9. MIRACLE
10. HOI FUT TIN HUNG
11. RIVER OF THE LIGHT
12. SWAN LAKE
13. WITHOUT YOU
14. KURENAI
15. TRANSITION
16. ART OF LIFE
17. ENDLESS RAIN

YOSHIKI CLASSICAL SPECIAL feat. Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra
New York City @ Carnegie Hall – Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage

Jan 12, 2017 (Thursday)
http://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2017/1/12/0730/PM/Yoshiki-Classical-Special-with-Tokyo-Philharmonic-Orchestra/

Jan 13, 2017 (Friday)
http://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2017/1/13/0730/PM/Yoshiki-Classical-Special-with-Tokyo-Philharmonic-Orchestra/

VIP Meet and Greet Packages (Limited Availability): https://tickets.onelivemedia.com/events/23703
10:55 AM
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The Yoshiki Classical Special feat. Orchestra in Hong Kong, scheduled to take place the evening of Thursday, December 29th at AsiaWorld-Expo Arena, was cancelled two hours before the show.

The cancellation was due to an oversight by the promoter in applying for the Entertainment License necessary to perform the show. The announcement was made at the venue’s discretion during the concert rehearsal that was being watched by fans who had purchased the VIP package.

While the local promoter profusely apologized to Yoshiki for her mistake, Yoshiki took into account the scope of the situation and negotiated directly with the venue himself. A press conference immediately followed to announce that ticket purchases would be refunded, and that Yoshiki will conduct a free concert as a private event for not only his fans in Hong Kong, but for those who traveled from mainland China, Europe, and Japan.

The series of events that took place from local time 7PM on the 29th was broadcast live on NicoNico Douga’s Yoshiki Channel. The morning of December 30th, Yoshiki appeared live in front of the camera to tell his fans what had occurred the prior evening. While the ongoing negotiation with Puffin Entertainment continues, the local staff are working tirelessly through the night to accommodate the needs of the many performers who travelled from across the world, including 2 singers who travelled from the U.S. and were scheduled to appear in the concert.

Yoshiki was due to return to Japan on December 30th to attend the rehearsal of NHK’s “Kohaku Uta Gassen”, Japan’s largest live TV music show of the year, but he adjusted his schedule accordingly to not disappoint his fans. Yoshiki will return to Japan on December 31st to make it to the “Kohaku” event.

Statement from Puffin Entertainment, Ltd.:

On behalf of the organizer, Puffin Entertainment Ltd., we deeply apologize for the postponing of the December 29, 2016 concert at AsiaWorld-Expo Arena to the following day. This is due to the oversight of the application for the Entertainment License, which must be presented to the venue by our company. This is totally Puffin Entertainment's fault.

Yoshiki has arrived in Hong Kong and has prepared his best to perform at the concert.
This cancellation is not in any way related to him. Again, we apologize for the inconvenience we have caused.

Irene Sit, Puffin Entertainment Ltd.

YOSHIKI’s Facebook Comment:

My dear fans,

Let me explain what happened with my concert tonight.
2 hours before the show, the promoter in Hong Kong told me they realized that they failed to apply for a license for tonight's show.

And told me that I needed to cancel the show.
I was really confused for a moment. The promoter really apologized to me.
Then I proposed, what if I were to play a private show for free for my fans, who were already at the venue tonight,

Can the venue allow me to play?
After a long negotiation, the venue said they will allow me to play tomorrow night.
So I will play a show in Hong Kong for the people who already have tickets for free.
All tickets will be honored and refunded.
In order for us to make up for any inconveniences, each ticket holder can bring one extra friend as a guest (Tickets will be refunded regardless).

We'll try to accommodate anyway we can, even changing the stage plan.
Again I'm really sorry for what has happened tonight.
I hope you understand and can make it tomorrow night.

Thank you.
YOSHIKI

Free Concert Information:

Venue: Asia World-Expo, Hong Kong
Date: Friday, December 30th
Entrance Eligibility: People who purchased “Yoshiki Classical Feat. Orchestra in Hong Kong” which was scheduled to take place December 29th plus a guest.

Contact:
Yoshiki Classical ticket Hotline: +852 65375134
Email: puffininfo@gmail.com
10:15 AM
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The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced X Japan's "La Venus" as one of the songs in contention for a nomination for this year's "Best Original Song" at the 89th Academy Awards®. YOSHIKI -- songwriter, drummer, classically-trained pianist and the creative force of X Japan -- wrote "La Venus" for We Are X, the critically acclaimed music documentary on the iconic Japanese rock group X Japan. The nominations for the 89th Oscars® will be announced Tuesday, January 24, 2017. The Oscars® will take place Sunday, February 26, 2017 at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

“La Venus” the single will be released via Sony Legacy Recordings and available everywhere in early 2017.

“Sony Music Entertainment’s Legacy Recordings is thrilled to be releasing the new single, ‘La Venus’ from X Japan’s feature documentary, We Are X," says Adam Block, President of Sony Legacy Recordings. “It’s a beautiful, powerful track from a stunning film that we hope will be considered for a nomination for best song from a feature film at this year’s Academy Awards.”

Watch as YOSHIKI describes “La Venus” and its role in the film We Are X
VIDEO: "La Venus" - https://youtu.be/86Jm8gFXbcI
9:27 AM
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Following the announcement of X Japan’s upcoming appearance at the prestigious NHK New Year’s Eve live music event, the 67th “Kouhaku Uta Gassen”, the band is scheduled to broadcast the world premiere performance of their new song “La Venus” from the documentary film We Are X. The performance will be part of a special edition of NHK SONGS airing on December 17, which will also feature an interview with band leader Yoshiki.

X Japan performed a partial piano-and-vocal-only version of “La Venus” in October at the Visual Japan Summit, which brought in 10,000 fans over 3 days to the festival headlined by X Japan, GLAY, and Luna Sea. NHK SONGS will present the world premiere performance of the complete track featuring the entire band. Yoshiki commented that even he couldn’t remember the last time the band had performed an in-studio live concert.

NHK SONGS will also show exclusive video of Yoshiki’s live solo performance at IDFA Amsterdam during the film festival’s screening of We Are X in November, including an interview with the X Japan leader who discusses the band’s dramatic history, his upcoming Carnegie Hall performance in January, and his strong drive to bring Japanese music to the world.

Show information (Japanese)
http://www6.nhk.or.jp/songs/program.html?fid=161217
11:06 AM
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VIP tickets for Yoshiki's upcoming classical performance at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage go on sale today, September 29.

Yoshiki — songwriter, drummer/percussionist, classically-trained pianist and the creative force of the rock group X Japan — announced the “Yoshiki Classical Special Featuring Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra” last week, gaining worldwide attention for the acclaimed Japanese artist's appearance at the prestigious New York concert hall. The special classical performance, presented by Knitting Factory, will take place on January 12 and 13, 2017.

Yoshiki will perform his original compositions alongside the world-renowned Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra; he will also play several traditional classical pieces. The Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra was named one of the Top 10 greatest orchestras in the world by CNN in 2015. This classical concert will also take place in Japan and Hong Kong.

Exclusive Limited VIP packages include premium seating, meet-and-greet opportunities with Yoshiki, signed items, and more.

VIP Ticket Link: https://tickets.onelivemedia.com/events/23703

VIP Meet & Greet Package:
- T-Shirt
- Tote Bag
- "Yoshiki Classical" Exclusive Vinyl
- Exclusive Metronome
- Poster, Autographed By Yoshiki
- Laminate Lanyard

VIP Merchandise Package:
- T-Shirt
- Tote Bag
- "Yoshiki Classical" Exclusive Vinyl
- Poster, Autographed By Yoshiki

Regular admission tickets are also available at the Carnegie Hall website, carnegiehall.org.
10:05 AM

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