Regarded by many as Japan's biggest rock star, YOSHIKI is a composer, classically-trained pianist, rock drummer, and leader of the rock groups X Japan and The Last Rockstars. YOSHIKI was named "one of the most influential musicians and composers in Japanese history" by Consequence and is described by Billboard as "a musical innovator". He is the first and only Japanese artist to be honored with a hand and footprint ceremony at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood since the tradition began in 1927. Time magazine named YOSHIKI one of the Most Influential People of 2025 in the TIME100 list.
Yoshiki's solo career includes several classical studio albums and collaborations with artists such as George Martin, Bono, will.i.am, St. Vincent, the Chainsmokers, Skrillex, Ellie Goulding, Stan Lee, Roger Taylor and Brian May of Queen, Gene Simmons and KISS, Nicole Scherzinger, and Sarah Brightman.
His worldwide projects include a song dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the Emperor of Japan’s reign, the official theme song for the World Expo, Hollywood film soundtracks, and the official theme song for the prestigious Golden Globe Awards. Led by YOSHIKI, X Japan has sold over 30 million albums and singles and sold out the 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome a record-breaking 18 times. He was the first Asian musician to perform at the world’s greatest music halls including Madison Square Garden, Wembley Arena, and solo performances at Carnegie Hall.
YOSHIKI is also known for his work as a record producer, film director, fashion designer, winemaker, and founder of the 501(c)(3) charity Yoshiki Foundation America. He was named one of Forbes Asia's 30 Heroes of Philanthropy and was awarded Japan's Medal of Honor for his ongoing charitable activities.
