The band index - logo

Discover Every Band, Feel Every Beat

X Japan  Live Banner

X Japan

Upvote Your Favorite Band Today!

Be the first one to vote X Japan!

What's your take on X Japan's sound? Share your thoughts! 🤘

Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

PATA

2007

Guitar

SUGIZO

2009

Violin

Guitar

TOSHI

2007

Lead vocals

YOSHIKI

2007

Drums (drum set)

Piano

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Eddy

1985
1985

Guitar

heath

1992
1997

Bass guitar

heath

2007
2023

Bass guitar

hide

1987
1997

Guitar

PATA

1987
1997

Guitar

TAIJI

1985
1985

Bass guitar

TAIJI

1986
1992

Bass guitar

Tomo

1982
1985

Guitar

TOSHI

1982
1997

Lead vocals

XENON

1985
1986

Guitar

YOSHIKI

1982
1997

Drums (drum set)

Piano

吉田良文

1985
1985

Guitar

堀功

1987
1987

Guitar

宇高光

1985
1986

Bass guitar

徳応アツシ

1984
1985

Bass guitar

村上悟

1986
1987

Guitar

泉沢裕二

1982
1985

高井寿

1985
1985

Guitar

高井寿

1986
1986

Guitar

Story of X Japan

X Japan: A Rock Revolution

X Japan, the legendary Japanese rock band from Chiba, burst onto the scene in 1982, the brainchild of drummer/pianist Yoshiki and vocalist Toshi. Initially known as X, they started with a potent blend of power/speed metal, infused with symphonic grandeur. But their sonic journey didn't stop there. They evolved, embracing progressive rock and crafting heart-wrenching ballads, creating a unique sound that set them apart.

X Japan was a pioneer in more ways than one. They were one of the first Japanese bands to reach mainstream success without the backing of a major label. They also spearheaded the visual kei movement, a Japanese subculture that embraced flamboyant and theatrical aesthetics, comparable to Western glam rock.

Their 1988 debut album, "Vanishing Vision," released on Yoshiki's own Extasy Records, solidified their lineup – bassist Taiji, lead guitarist Hide, and rhythm guitarist Pata joined the founding duo. 1989 saw them achieve major breakthrough with their second album, "Blue Blood." The following year, "Jealousy" further cemented their dominance, but in 1992, Taiji left the band. He was replaced by Heath, and the band officially changed their name to X Japan, embarking on a new chapter.

They released the groundbreaking "Art of Life" in 1993 – a single, 29-minute masterpiece that showcased their artistic evolution. In 1995, X Japan shed their signature visual kei look for a more casual approach, releasing "Dahlia" in 1996, a powerful album that, like its two predecessors, topped the charts. Their last concert, held on December 31, 1997, at the Tokyo Dome, was a grand finale to five consecutive sold-out New Year's Eve concerts at the iconic stadium.

After a decade-long hiatus, X Japan returned in 2007, reigniting their passion with the new song "I.V." Their impact on Japanese rock music, and global music in general, is undeniable. X Japan remains a force to be reckoned with, a band that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Learn more about X Japan

Bands you may like

Follow us on
Contact Usprivacy policy
©2024
The Band Index
- ALL RIGHTS RESERVED