Yoshiki
Encyclopedia
, better known by his stage name
YOSHIKI, is a musician
, songwriter
and record producer
. He is primarily known as leader and co-founder of the heavy metal
band X Japan
, for which he plays drums and piano and writes most of the music. After the band disbanded in 1997 he participated in several other musical acts and produced for numerous artists. In 2007 X Japan
reunited and he has been performing with them since.
(then called X) with his childhood friend Toshi
in 1982. Four years later, he founded his own independent
label, Extasy Records
, in order to distribute the band's music. Their breakthrough came in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood. After three more albums and several tours, the group broke up in 1997 but releases of arranged material and reissues continued (X Japan reunited in 2007).
Aside from his work with the group, Yoshiki has also collaborated with several noted artists such as Queen
drummer Roger Taylor
, Beatles
producer George Martin
, and various others on the international Kiss
tribute album Kiss My Ass
. As a producer, he has provided several bands with first time recording contracts through Extasy Records, i.e. Luna Sea
, Glay
and Zi:Kill
.
After X Japan disbanded, his next major endeavor was expected to be work with the band Violet UK, but the release of a debut album was postponed repeatedly. Beside a symphonic concert performed in 2002 and released on DVD
in 2005 (which contained arrangements of old X Japan songs along with music supposedly created for Violet UK), no major publication of the group has yet surfaced.
In 2003, Yoshiki worked with the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls
, Nicole Scherzinger
, for his Violet UK project. She sang the English version of "I'll Be Your Love" live with the Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra. The track also appeared on the 2003 various artists album Exposition of Global Harmony.
Yoshiki remained active as a producer, i.e. for the bands Dir en grey
and TRAX
and also briefly joined the pop band Globe
. He also contributed the theme song for the Expo 2005
and music for the movie Catacombs. More recently, he helmed the "JRock Revolution" festival in Los Angeles, California
. during which his participation in the supergroup
S.K.I.N. alongside pop/rock artists Gackt
and Miyavi
, and Luna Sea
guitarist Sugizo
was announced.
Yoshiki confirmed that X Japan
would reunite in 2007, with a new single and a tour. On October 22, 2007 they appeared together for the first time in over 10 years at a public filming of the promotion video for their new single "I.V.
" which was created for the movie Saw IV
.
On September 20, 2007, at a Catacombs preview in Japan, it was announced that Yoshiki would be producing the rock musical
Repo! The Genetic Opera
and its soundtrack
, along with composing one extra track for it.
In March 2008, X Japan performed shows on three consecutive nights in Japan's Tokyo Dome
.
In May 2010, Yoshiki made a surprise appearance at Anime Central
in order to present the premiere of the film Yoshiki History Through X Japan, in addition to publicizing an upcoming X Japan performance at Lollapalooza
in Chicago
.
X Japan has since performed at Yokohama's Nissan Stadium
and completed their first North American tour, which began on September 25 in Los Angeles and continued with stops in San Francisco, Oakland, Vancouver, Toronto, Seattle, Boston, Chicago and New York City.
The first performances of Toshi feat. Yoshiki were held on January 24 and 25, 2011. They were high-end dinner shows, where the attendees were served a French meal by renowned chef Mikuni Kiyomi, and enjoyed a piano duet by Toshi
and Yoshiki, an orchestra was also utilized. It was also announced that the duo would release their first songs earlier that month.
On February 8, Yoshiki and Jay FR (producer of "Tokyo Girls Collection
") announced "Asia Girls Explosion", a fashion and music show. The event took place on March 6 at Yoyogi National Stadium and was the debut of the "Yoshikimono", a kimono designed by Yoshiki. Special guest models included Ai Tominaga
, actresses Kaori Momoi, Olivia Palermo
, Jessica Stroup
, Shenae Grimes
and AnnaLynne McCord
, and musicians Heath and Marilyn Manson
. The musical performances included Violet UK's first performance in Japan and X Japan's first performance of "Scarlet Love Song
".
On March 14, 2011, Yoshiki decided to auction off one of his used Kawai
signature crystal pianos, of which all proceeds will be sent to provide aid to the victims of March 11's Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
Also, currently all donations to his non-profit organization, Yoshiki Foundation, are being sent to the Japanese Red Cross
.
Originally announced on January 27, 2011, "Yoshiki Radio" launched on May 27 on Sirius XM's the Boneyard. The hour long program hosted by Yoshiki, airs the first Sunday of every month at 9p.m. ET and will feature "his favorite music, including Japanese acts, and spotlight elements of Japanese pop culture". Yoshiki recorded the first episode during his repeat appearance at Anime Central
on May 21.
On July 21, 2011 at San Diego Comic-Con International, Yoshiki unveiled his comic book series, Blood Red Dragon. The series is a collaboration with comic book legends Stan Lee
and Todd McFarlane
, and stars a fictionalized version of Yoshiki.
The Tokyo Madame Tussauds
unveiled a life-sized wax figure of Yoshiki, that reportedly cost around 19 million yen to make, on November 10.
cymbal
s, and Evans
drumheads. Yoshiki has his own signature model of drumsticks availabile on Tama's Japan website.
In addition to this kit, Yoshiki also plays a Tama Artstar Custom kit in a chrome finish in a similar setup as the above kit, but he rarely uses it. On his recent tours, he is seen playing with four octobans and two synthesizer
s (all in clear acrylic) in his current setup.
Crystal II Glad Grand Piano CR-40A. The piano has 88 keys at 7¼ octaves with 3 pedals. The piano also has an Aliquot system with fine ivory white keys and fine ebony black keys. The piano has a translucent acrylic resin and a private chair attachment. The piano has a height of 39 inches, a frontage of 58.5 inches, a depth of 72.2 inches, and a weight of 935 pounds.
Stage name
A stage name, also called a showbiz name or screen name, is a pseudonym used by performers and entertainers such as actors, wrestlers, comedians, and musicians.-Motivation to use a stage name:...
YOSHIKI, is a musician
Musician
A musician is an artist who plays a musical instrument. It may or may not be the person's profession. Musicians can be classified by their roles in performing music and writing music.Also....* A person who makes music a profession....
, songwriter
Songwriter
A songwriter is an individual who writes both the lyrics and music to a song. Someone who solely writes lyrics may be called a lyricist, and someone who only writes music may be called a composer...
and record producer
Record producer
A record producer is an individual working within the music industry, whose job is to oversee and manage the recording of an artist's music...
. He is primarily known as leader and co-founder of the heavy metal
Heavy metal music
Heavy metal is a genre of rock music that developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s, largely in the Midlands of the United Kingdom and the United States...
band X Japan
X Japan
is a Japanese heavy metal band founded in 1982 by Yoshiki and Toshi. Originally named X , the group achieved their breakthrough success in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood...
, for which he plays drums and piano and writes most of the music. After the band disbanded in 1997 he participated in several other musical acts and produced for numerous artists. In 2007 X Japan
X Japan
is a Japanese heavy metal band founded in 1982 by Yoshiki and Toshi. Originally named X , the group achieved their breakthrough success in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood...
reunited and he has been performing with them since.
Biography
Yoshiki formed X JapanX Japan
is a Japanese heavy metal band founded in 1982 by Yoshiki and Toshi. Originally named X , the group achieved their breakthrough success in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood...
(then called X) with his childhood friend Toshi
Toshi (musician)
, better known by his stage name Toshi , is a Japanese singer and musician. He is best known as vocalist and co-founder of the heavy metal group X Japan. The band elevated to legendary status in Japan, until its disbanding in 1997. Toshi then went on to have an extensive solo career...
in 1982. Four years later, he founded his own independent
Indie (music)
In music, independent music, often shortened to indie music or "indie" is a term used to describe independence from major commercial record labels or their subsidiaries, and an autonomous, Do-It-Yourself approach to recording and publishing....
label, Extasy Records
Extasy Records
Extasy Records is a Japanese record label founded in April 1986 by Yoshiki Hayashi, co-founder of the heavy metal band X Japan...
, in order to distribute the band's music. Their breakthrough came in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood. After three more albums and several tours, the group broke up in 1997 but releases of arranged material and reissues continued (X Japan reunited in 2007).
Aside from his work with the group, Yoshiki has also collaborated with several noted artists such as Queen
Queen (band)
Queen are a British rock band formed in London in 1971, originally consisting of Freddie Mercury , Brian May , John Deacon , and Roger Taylor...
drummer Roger Taylor
Roger Meddows-Taylor
Roger Meddows Taylor , known as Roger Taylor, is a British musician, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He is best known as the drummer, backing vocalist and occasional lead vocalist of British rock band Queen. As a drummer he is known for his "big" unique sound and is considered one of...
, Beatles
The Beatles
The Beatles were an English rock band, active throughout the 1960s and one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed acts in the history of popular music. Formed in Liverpool, by 1962 the group consisted of John Lennon , Paul McCartney , George Harrison and Ringo Starr...
producer George Martin
George Martin
Sir George Henry Martin CBE is an English record producer, arranger, composer and musician. He is sometimes referred to as "the Fifth Beatle"— a title that he often describes as "nonsense," but the fact remains that he served as producer on all but one of The Beatles' original albums...
, and various others on the international Kiss
KISS (band)
Kiss is an American rock band formed in New York City in January 1973. Well-known for its members' face paint and flamboyant stage outfits, the group rose to prominence in the mid to late 1970s on the basis of their elaborate live performances, which featured fire breathing, blood spitting,...
tribute album Kiss My Ass
KISS My Ass: Classic KISS Regrooved
-Charts:Album - Billboard Singles - Billboard -External links:*...
. As a producer, he has provided several bands with first time recording contracts through Extasy Records, i.e. Luna Sea
Luna Sea
Luna Sea is a rock band from Kanagawa, Japan, formed in 1989. The band was initially founded by bassist J and rhythm guitarist Inoran, when they were in high school. They soon recruited lead guitarist and violinist Sugizo, drummer Shinya and vocalist Ryuichi, a lineup that has remained the same...
, Glay
Glay
Glay is a rock/pop band from Hakodate, Hokkaidō, Japan formed by guitarist Takuro and vocalist Teru in high school in 1988. Glay primarily composes songs in the rock and pop genres, but they have also composed songs using elements of different styles such as reggae and gospel...
and Zi:Kill
Zi:Kill
Zi:Kill was an influential Japanese visual kei rock band active from 1987 to 1994 . The core members were vocalist Tusk, bassist Seiichi and guitarist Ken. They were featured in a chapter of Karl Taro Greenfeld's novel Speed Tribes...
.
After X Japan disbanded, his next major endeavor was expected to be work with the band Violet UK, but the release of a debut album was postponed repeatedly. Beside a symphonic concert performed in 2002 and released on DVD
DVD
A DVD is an optical disc storage media format, invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba, and Panasonic in 1995. DVDs offer higher storage capacity than Compact Discs while having the same dimensions....
in 2005 (which contained arrangements of old X Japan songs along with music supposedly created for Violet UK), no major publication of the group has yet surfaced.
In 2003, Yoshiki worked with the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls
Pussycat Dolls
The Pussycat Dolls are an American pop girl group and dance ensemble based in Los Angeles; currently consisting of Lauren Bennett, Vanessa Curry, Kristal "Lyndriette" Smith, Tiffany "Taz" Zavala, Kia Hampton and Paula Van Oppen. The Pussycat Dolls were founded by choreographer Robin Antin in 1995...
, Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Prescovia Elikolani Valiente Scherzinger is an American singer-songwriter, dancer, record producer, model, and actress. Scherzinger is perhaps best known for being the lead vocalist of the Pussycat Dolls....
, for his Violet UK project. She sang the English version of "I'll Be Your Love" live with the Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra. The track also appeared on the 2003 various artists album Exposition of Global Harmony.
Yoshiki remained active as a producer, i.e. for the bands Dir en grey
Dir en grey
Dir En Grey is a Japanese metal band formed in 1997 and currently signed to Firewall Div., a sub-division of Free-Will. As of 2011, they have recorded eight full-length records...
and TRAX
and also briefly joined the pop band Globe
Globe (band)
Globe is a dance-oriented Japanese pop band, formed in 1995 by producer and songwriter Tetsuya Komuro. Originally consisting of Komuro, Keiko Yamada and Marc Panther, the group's singles consistently hit the charts...
. He also contributed the theme song for the Expo 2005
Expo 2005
Expo 2005 was the World's Fair held for 185 days between Friday, March 25 and Sunday, September 25, 2005, in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, east of the city of Nagoya. It was a Specialized International Exhibition under the scheme of the 1972 protocol of the Convention relating to International Exhibitions...
and music for the movie Catacombs. More recently, he helmed the "JRock Revolution" festival in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles , with a population at the 2010 United States Census of 3,792,621, is the most populous city in California, USA and the second most populous in the United States, after New York City. It has an area of , and is located in Southern California...
. during which his participation in the supergroup
Supergroup (music)
In the late 1960s, the term supergroup was coined to describe "a rock music group whose performers are already famous from having performed individually or in other groups"....
S.K.I.N. alongside pop/rock artists Gackt
Gackt
is a Japanese singer-songwriter, actor, voice actor and author. Usually referred to by his mononymous stage name, he is known for his career as a solo artist and as the former vocalist for the defunct visual kei rock band Malice Mizer....
and Miyavi
Miyavi
, better known by his stage name , is a Japanese visual kei musician. His work as guitarist for Dué le Quartz and his successful solo career have established him as an accomplished musician in the Japanese music scene.- Early life :...
, and Luna Sea
Luna Sea
Luna Sea is a rock band from Kanagawa, Japan, formed in 1989. The band was initially founded by bassist J and rhythm guitarist Inoran, when they were in high school. They soon recruited lead guitarist and violinist Sugizo, drummer Shinya and vocalist Ryuichi, a lineup that has remained the same...
guitarist Sugizo
Sugizo
, born , is a Japanese musician, singer-songwriter and record producer. Referred to by his stage name Sugizo, he is best known as lead guitarist of the rock band Luna Sea, who were popular in the 1990s. He started his solo career in 1997 and has since collaborated with many artists...
was announced.
Yoshiki confirmed that X Japan
X Japan
is a Japanese heavy metal band founded in 1982 by Yoshiki and Toshi. Originally named X , the group achieved their breakthrough success in 1989 with the release of their second album Blue Blood...
would reunite in 2007, with a new single and a tour. On October 22, 2007 they appeared together for the first time in over 10 years at a public filming of the promotion video for their new single "I.V.
I.V.
"I.V." is a single released by X Japan on January 23, 2008 as a digital download. It is the band's first new song since "The Last Song" released in 1998. "I.V." is the main theme for the film Saw IV, which was released on October 26, 2007.- Overview :...
" which was created for the movie Saw IV
Saw IV
Saw IV is a 2007 Canadian-American horror film and midquel to 2006's Saw III. It was directed by Darren Lynn Bousman and written by newcomers Patrick Melton, Marcus Dunstan and Thomas Fenton. The film was released in North America on October 26, 2007...
.
On September 20, 2007, at a Catacombs preview in Japan, it was announced that Yoshiki would be producing the rock musical
Musical film
The musical film is a film genre in which songs sung by the characters are interwoven into the narrative, sometimes accompanied by dancing. The songs usually advance the plot or develop the film's characters, though in some cases they serve merely as breaks in the storyline, often as elaborate...
Repo! The Genetic Opera
Repo! The Genetic Opera
Repo! The Genetic Opera is a 2008 horror-rock opera musical film directed by Darren Lynn Bousman. The film is based on a play written and composed by Darren Smith and Terrance Zdunich....
and its soundtrack
Repo! The Genetic Opera (soundtrack)
Repo! The Genetic Opera: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is the soundtrack to the 2008 rock opera horror/post-apocalyptic science fiction film of the same name.The entire album is in the form of a rock opera, where every song is part of the same story...
, along with composing one extra track for it.
In March 2008, X Japan performed shows on three consecutive nights in Japan's Tokyo Dome
Tokyo Dome
Tokyo Dome is a 55,000-seat baseball stadium located in Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.The stadium opened for business on March 17, 1988. It was built on the site of the Velodrome which was next door to the site of the predecessor ballpark, Kōrakuen Stadium...
.
In May 2010, Yoshiki made a surprise appearance at Anime Central
Anime Central
Anime Central is an anime convention that is held yearly in Rosemont, Illinois, United States. It is one of the fastest growing anime conventions in the U.S. and has ranked as the 3rd largest North American anime convention since 2010. The convention is like many other anime conventions; it runs...
in order to present the premiere of the film Yoshiki History Through X Japan, in addition to publicizing an upcoming X Japan performance at Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza is an annual music festival featuring popular alternative rock, heavy metal, punk rock and hip hop bands, dance and comedy performances, and craft booths. It has also provided a platform for non-profit and political groups. The music festival hosts more than 160,000 people over a...
in Chicago
Chicago
Chicago is the largest city in the US state of Illinois. With nearly 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous in the US, after New York City and Los Angeles...
.
X Japan has since performed at Yokohama's Nissan Stadium
Nissan Stadium
The is a sports venue in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.The Yokohama City Office planned multi purpose about the rest place for flood by the Tsurumi River, which included the construction of the main stadium of major sport events - the 53rd National Sports Festival of Japan in Kanagawa...
and completed their first North American tour, which began on September 25 in Los Angeles and continued with stops in San Francisco, Oakland, Vancouver, Toronto, Seattle, Boston, Chicago and New York City.
The first performances of Toshi feat. Yoshiki were held on January 24 and 25, 2011. They were high-end dinner shows, where the attendees were served a French meal by renowned chef Mikuni Kiyomi, and enjoyed a piano duet by Toshi
Toshi (musician)
, better known by his stage name Toshi , is a Japanese singer and musician. He is best known as vocalist and co-founder of the heavy metal group X Japan. The band elevated to legendary status in Japan, until its disbanding in 1997. Toshi then went on to have an extensive solo career...
and Yoshiki, an orchestra was also utilized. It was also announced that the duo would release their first songs earlier that month.
On February 8, Yoshiki and Jay FR (producer of "Tokyo Girls Collection
Tokyo Girls Collection
The , sometimes abbreviated as TGC, is a semiannual fashion festival launched in 2005. The fashion event showcases the seasons fashionable streetwear by domestic brands, and are usually modeled by popular celebrities from various entertainment scenes not by professional models...
") announced "Asia Girls Explosion", a fashion and music show. The event took place on March 6 at Yoyogi National Stadium and was the debut of the "Yoshikimono", a kimono designed by Yoshiki. Special guest models included Ai Tominaga
Ai Tominaga
is a Japanese fashion model and actress.- Career :She has appeared on the cover of Vogue in her native country and in runway shows for John Galliano, Vivienne Tam, Anna Sui, Christian Dior, Karl Lagerfeld, Gucci, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Dolce and Gabbana, Givenchy, Elie Saab, Alexander McQueen...
, actresses Kaori Momoi, Olivia Palermo
Olivia Palermo
Olivia Palermo is an American socialite, model and actress. She was a cast member of the reality television show The City.-Career:...
, Jessica Stroup
Jessica Stroup
Jessica Leigh Stroup is an American actress and fashion model. Stroup is best known for her role as Erin Silver on The CW television series 90210, a spin-off to the original Beverly Hills, 90210...
, Shenae Grimes
Shenae Grimes
Shenae Grimes is a Canadian actress. She currently portrays the role of Annie Wilson on 90210, a spinoff of Beverly Hills, 90210. Prior to that she played Darcy Edwards on Degrassi: The Next Generation...
and AnnaLynne McCord
AnnaLynne McCord
AnnaLynne McCord is an American actress. Known for playing a range of vixen-type roles, McCord first gained prominence in 2007 as the scheming Eden Lord on the FX television series Nip/Tuck, and as the pampered Loren Wakefield on the MyNetworkTV telenovela American Heiress...
, and musicians Heath and Marilyn Manson
Marilyn Manson
Marilyn Manson may refer to:* Marilyn Manson , an American rock musician* Marilyn Manson , the American rock band led by the singer of the same name...
. The musical performances included Violet UK's first performance in Japan and X Japan's first performance of "Scarlet Love Song
Scarlet Love Song
"Scarlet Love Song" is a song released by X Japan on June 8, 2011 as a digital download. It was composed specifically to be the theme song for the animated movie adaptation of the Buddha manga, which was released May 28, 2011. The song, first performed at "" on March 6, 2011 at Yoyogi National...
".
On March 14, 2011, Yoshiki decided to auction off one of his used Kawai
Kawai
The of Japan is best known for its grand and upright pianos, electronic keyboards and electronic synthesizers. The company was established in August 1927, and has its headquarters in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.-Pianos:...
signature crystal pianos, of which all proceeds will be sent to provide aid to the victims of March 11's Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
Also, currently all donations to his non-profit organization, Yoshiki Foundation, are being sent to the Japanese Red Cross
Japanese Red Cross
The ' is the Japanese affiliate of the International Red Cross.The Imperial Family of Japan traditionally has supported the society, with Empress as Honorary President and other royal family members as vice-presidents. Its headquarters is located in Tokyo and local chapters are set up in all 47...
.
Originally announced on January 27, 2011, "Yoshiki Radio" launched on May 27 on Sirius XM's the Boneyard. The hour long program hosted by Yoshiki, airs the first Sunday of every month at 9p.m. ET and will feature "his favorite music, including Japanese acts, and spotlight elements of Japanese pop culture". Yoshiki recorded the first episode during his repeat appearance at Anime Central
Anime Central
Anime Central is an anime convention that is held yearly in Rosemont, Illinois, United States. It is one of the fastest growing anime conventions in the U.S. and has ranked as the 3rd largest North American anime convention since 2010. The convention is like many other anime conventions; it runs...
on May 21.
On July 21, 2011 at San Diego Comic-Con International, Yoshiki unveiled his comic book series, Blood Red Dragon. The series is a collaboration with comic book legends Stan Lee
Stan Lee
Stan Lee is an American comic book writer, editor, actor, producer, publisher, television personality, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics....
and Todd McFarlane
Todd McFarlane
Todd McFarlane is a Canadian cartoonist, writer, toy designer and entrepreneur, best known for his work in comic books, such as the fantasy series Spawn....
, and stars a fictionalized version of Yoshiki.
The Tokyo Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds is a wax museum in London with branches in a number of major cities. It was founded by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud and was formerly known as "Madame Tussaud's", but the apostrophe is no longer used...
unveiled a life-sized wax figure of Yoshiki, that reportedly cost around 19 million yen to make, on November 10.
Drums
Yoshiki is a full endorser of Tama Drums, ZildjianAvedis Zildjian Company
The Avedis Zildjian Company is a cymbal manufacturer founded in Istanbul by Armenian Avedis Zildjian in the 17th century during the Ottoman Empire. At nearly 400 years old, Zildjian is one of the oldest companies in the world...
cymbal
Cymbal
Cymbals are a common percussion instrument. Cymbals consist of thin, normally round plates of various alloys; see cymbal making for a discussion of their manufacture. The greater majority of cymbals are of indefinite pitch, although small disc-shaped cymbals based on ancient designs sound a...
s, and Evans
D'Addario
D'Addario is a manufacturer of musical instrument strings, primarily guitar strings, currently headquartered in Farmingdale, Long Island, New York...
drumheads. Yoshiki has his own signature model of drumsticks availabile on Tama's Japan website.
- Drums - Tama Artstar II: Clear Acrylic (Custom finish):
- 10"×10" Tom
- 12"×11" Tom
- 13"×12" Tom
- 14"×13" Tom
- 16"×16" Floor Tom
- 18"×16" Floor Tom
- 14"×6.5" Steel Snare
- 24"×16" Bass Drum (x2)
In addition to this kit, Yoshiki also plays a Tama Artstar Custom kit in a chrome finish in a similar setup as the above kit, but he rarely uses it. On his recent tours, he is seen playing with four octobans and two synthesizer
Synthesizer
A synthesizer is an electronic instrument capable of producing sounds by generating electrical signals of different frequencies. These electrical signals are played through a loudspeaker or set of headphones...
s (all in clear acrylic) in his current setup.
- Cymbals - ZildjianAvedis Zildjian CompanyThe Avedis Zildjian Company is a cymbal manufacturer founded in Istanbul by Armenian Avedis Zildjian in the 17th century during the Ottoman Empire. At nearly 400 years old, Zildjian is one of the oldest companies in the world...
- 14" A Zildjian Quick Beat Hi-Hats
- 18" A Zildjian Rock Crash (x2)
- 18" A Zildjian Medium Crash
- 20" A Zildjian China Low
- 20" A Zildjian China High
- 20" K Zildjian Medium Ride
- Drumheads - EvansD'AddarioD'Addario is a manufacturer of musical instrument strings, primarily guitar strings, currently headquartered in Farmingdale, Long Island, New York...
- Toms - G2 Clear (Batter), G1 Clear (Resonant)
- Snare - G1 Coated (Batter), Hazy 300 (Resonant)
- Bass - EQ3 Clear (Batter)
- Drumsticks - Tama
- Yoshiki Signature: Yoshiki's signature drumsticks made from hickory. They are available in a black or grey finish, with the grey version featuring a non-slip coating.
- Hardware - Tama stands, YamahaYamaha DrumsYamaha Drums is a subsidiary of the Yamaha Corporation founded in 1967. The company manufactures acoustic and electronic drum kits as well as percussion instruments, marching band equipment, and drum hardware.-Production:...
pedals- Tama Roadpro Boom Cymbal Stand w/Counterweight (x5)
- Tama Roadpro Straight Cymbal Stand
- Tama Roadpro Snare Stand
- Yamaha FP-910 Strap Drive Bass Drum Pedal (x2)
- Tama Iron Cobra Velo-Glide Hi-Hat Stand
- Tama Hi-Hat Attachment
Piano
Yoshiki usually performs on a KawaiKawai
The of Japan is best known for its grand and upright pianos, electronic keyboards and electronic synthesizers. The company was established in August 1927, and has its headquarters in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.-Pianos:...
Crystal II Glad Grand Piano CR-40A. The piano has 88 keys at 7¼ octaves with 3 pedals. The piano also has an Aliquot system with fine ivory white keys and fine ebony black keys. The piano has a translucent acrylic resin and a private chair attachment. The piano has a height of 39 inches, a frontage of 58.5 inches, a depth of 72.2 inches, and a weight of 935 pounds.
Albums
- Yoshiki Selection (December 12, 1991)
- Eternal MelodyEternal MelodyEternal Melody is the first classical album released by Yoshiki Hayashi on April 21, 1993. All music was written by Yoshiki, produced and arranged by famed Beatles' producer George Martin and performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. It was later mastered at Abbey Road Studios...
(April 21, 1993) - A Music Box For Fantasy (July 25, 1993)
- Yoshiki Selection II (April 11, 1996)
- Eternal Melody II (March 23, 2005)
Singles
(with V2, January 19, 1992)- "Amethyst" (November 3, 1993)
- "Foreign Sand" (with Roger TaylorRoger Meddows-TaylorRoger Meddows Taylor , known as Roger Taylor, is a British musician, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He is best known as the drummer, backing vocalist and occasional lead vocalist of British rock band Queen. As a drummer he is known for his "big" unique sound and is considered one of...
, June 1, 1994) - "Sex and Religion" (with Violet UK, December 19, 2005)
- "Blue Butterfly" (with Violet UK, October 3, 2007)
- "Rosa -Movie Mix-" (with Violet UK, April 29, 2009, theme song for GoemonGoemon (film)Goemon is a 2009 Japanese historical fantasy film written and directed by Kazuaki Kiriya. It is loosely based on the story of Ishikawa Goemon, a legendary outlaw hero who stole valuables from the rich and gave them to the poor...
)
Soundtracks
- Catacombs (October 7, 2007, produced by Yoshiki, "Blue Butterfly" with Violet UK)
- Repo! The Genetic OperaRepo! The Genetic Opera (soundtrack)Repo! The Genetic Opera: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is the soundtrack to the 2008 rock opera horror/post-apocalyptic science fiction film of the same name.The entire album is in the form of a rock opera, where every song is part of the same story...
(September 30, 2008, produced by Yoshiki)
Home videos
- V2 Special Live Virginity 1991.12.5 (with V2, March 25, 1992)
- Anniversary (May 18, 2000)
- Symphonic Concert 2002.12.4 with Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra feat. Violet UK (March 30, 2005)
Various artists compilations
- Kiss My Ass: Classic Kiss RegroovedKISS My Ass: Classic KISS Regrooved-Charts:Album - Billboard Singles - Billboard -External links:*...
(June 21, 1994) - Tribute SpiritsTribute SpiritsTribute Spirits is a hide tribute album released on May 1, 1999. It collects cover versions by various artists, among them most members of hide's former band X Japan....
(May 1, 1999) - Ai Chikyu-haku presents Love the Earth (March 30, 2005)
With globe
- "Seize the Light" (November 27, 2002)
- 8 Years: Many Classic Moments (November 27, 2002)
- "Get It on Now" (feat. Keiko, March 26, 2003)
- Level 4LEVEL 4Level 4 is a studio album from the Japanese pop-rock/trance group Globe, released on March 26, 2003.It was the only Globe album to feature former X Japan drummer Yoshiki, who joined the band shortly after its previous album, Lights 2. However his only contribution to the album is the single,...
(March 26, 2003)
Other work
- The Inner Gates (Baki, December 16, 1989, piano on "In My Heart")
- Habit of Sex (EX-ANS, June 21, 1990, piano on "Different Malice")
- Shake Hand (L.O.X, June 25, 1990, all drums as Rei Shiratori)
- "Ima wo Dakishimete" (今を抱きしめて, NOA, November 3, 1993, produced & composed by Yoshiki)
- "Rain" (GlayGlayGlay is a rock/pop band from Hakodate, Hokkaidō, Japan formed by guitarist Takuro and vocalist Teru in high school in 1988. Glay primarily composes songs in the rock and pop genres, but they have also composed songs using elements of different styles such as reggae and gospel...
, May 25, 1994, produced & lyrics by Yoshiki, composed by Yoshiki & TakuroTakuro (musician)Takuro Kubo is one of the guitarists and leader of the popular Japanese rock band Glay. He is the main composer and lyricist of Glay's songs....
) - "Moment" (Hideki SaijoHideki Saijois a Japanese singer and television celebrity most famous for singing the Japanese version of the Village People's hit song Y.M.C.A., called Young Man. Although the original version was camp, Saijō's version was intended to seriously inspire "young men"....
, August 6, 1997, produced & composed by Yoshiki) - "Begin" (Shoko Kitano, June 23, 1998, produced, lyrics & composed by Yoshiki)
- "Bara to Midori" (薔薇と緑, Shoko Kitano, October 28, 1998, produced, lyrics & composed by Yoshiki)
- "Akuro no OkaAKURO NO OKAis a single released by Dir En Grey on January 20, 1999. It is among the first to feature remixes and was released simultaneously along with "Yurameki" and "-Zan-"...
" (Dir en greyDir en greyDir En Grey is a Japanese metal band formed in 1997 and currently signed to Firewall Div., a sub-division of Free-Will. As of 2011, they have recorded eight full-length records...
, January 20, 1999, produced by Yoshiki) - "YuramekiYURAMEKIis a single released by Dir En Grey on January 20, 1999, simultaneously along with "Akuro no Oka" and "-Zan-". The single peaked at number 5 on the Oricon music charts in Japan....
" (Dir en grey, January 20, 1999, produced by Yoshiki) - "-Zan--ZAN-is a single released by Dir En Grey on January 20, 1999, simultaneously along with "Akuro no Oka" and "Yurameki". The single peaked at number 6 on the Oricon music charts in Japan....
" (Dir en grey, January 20, 1999, produced by Yoshiki) - "Cage" (Dir en grey, May 26, 1999, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Yokan" (Dir en grey, July 14, 1999, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Shinku no Hana" (深紅の花, Shizuka KudōShizuka Kudois a Japanese singer and pop idol born in Hamura, Tokyo. She debuted as member no. 38 of the Onyanko Club in May 1986 and went on to a successful solo career with 11 no.1 hits.-Biography:...
, November 8, 2000, produced & composed by Yoshiki, lyrics as Tomoya Tachibana) - "Pearl" (Shiro, July 5, 2000, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Happy Driving" (Revenus, August 23, 2000, executive produced by Yoshiki)
- "Chemical" (Beast, September 27, 2000, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Toumei na Jibun" (透明な自分, Shiro, November 29, 2000, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Sen no Hitomi" (千の瞳, Revenus, February 7, 2001, produced by Yoshiki)
- "Vision" (Beast, April 11, 2001, executive produced by Yoshiki)
- "Flower' (Revenus, May 9, 2001, produced by Yoshiki)
- HumanisticHumanistic (album)Humanistic is the debut album by Abandoned Pools. It was released in September 2001. Though two songs were co-written by Pete Pagonis, the album is considered a solo work of Tommy Walter's in which he used new material, as well as several songs he'd worked on beforehand in both Tely and Metromax,...
(Abandoned PoolsAbandoned PoolsTommy Walter is an American musician and songwriter, best known for his Alternative rock band, Abandoned Pools, as well as being the former bassist and one of the founding members of Eels....
, September 25, 2001, executive produced by Yoshiki) - "I WouldBeliever (Laura Dawn album)Believer is a 1999 album by Laura Dawn. It was released by the now-defunct Extasy International Records, an offshoot of the Extasy Records label created by X Japan drummer Yoshiki, and distributed by Warner Bros.-Tracklist:#Free and Lonely Life 4:33...
" (Laura DawnLaura DawnLaura Dawn is an American political activist and singer/songwriter. She has been the Cultural Director for MoveOn.org since March 2004 and was named the organization's National Creative Director in 2007.-Musical work:...
, October 9, 2001, produced by Yoshiki) - "Before the Beginning" (Dashuru Aja, February 26, 2002, executive produced by Yoshiki)
- ZerøspaceZerøspaceZerøspace was the second album from the Kidneythieves, released on March 26, 2002. It includes a slightly reworked version of their 1998 cover of Patsy Cline's "Crazy" which originally appeared on the Bride of Chucky soundtrack....
(KidneythievesKidneythievesKidneythieves is an American alternative and industrial rock band led by Free Dominguez and Bruce Somers . Also present in the band are Chris Schleyer , Christian Dorris , and Sean Sellers .- History :...
, March 6, 2002, executive produced by Yoshiki) - Tribute to Masami Yogore Naki Buta Tomodachi he!! (Various Artists, September 20, 2002, drums on "Kokoro Talk" by L.O.X as Rei Shiratori)
- "I'll Be Your Love" (Dahlia, October 29, 2003, produced, lyrics & composed by Yoshiki, Expo 2005Expo 2005Expo 2005 was the World's Fair held for 185 days between Friday, March 25 and Sunday, September 25, 2005, in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, east of the city of Nagoya. It was a Specialized International Exhibition under the scheme of the 1972 protocol of the Convention relating to International Exhibitions...
theme song) - "ScorpioScorpio (song)"Scorpio" also can refer to a song by Dennis Coffey and the Detroit Guitar Band"Scorpio" is a single released by South Korean rock band TRAX. It was recorded and released in two versions: Japanese and Korean....
" (TRAX, December 15, 2004, produced & composed by Yoshiki) - "Rhapsody" (TRAX, April 20, 2005, produced & lyrics by Yoshiki)