Next is X Japan

The group that was formally known as X, but later changed their name to X Japan because there was already another US rock band with similar name.

X Japan was a Legend in Japan (and it is still is) and has been known for their rebellious and transforming songs, music and visually stunning concerts and absolutely the most popular. They are the KISS of Japan but with 3x or 4x better and more outrageous outfits and shows. They are the Guns'N Roses of Japan with sold out shows, fanatical fans and awe-inspiring songs.

Started in mid-80's with Yoshiki (drums and piano) and Toshi (vocal). The original name of the group was X.

In 1988 they released their first album Vanishing Vision and hired a second guitarist, Hide. Hide is known as the God of Guitar in Japan; Fans have put his name into other legendary Western Guitarists such as Slash of Gun's N Roses and Satriani.

X also made an effort to invade the American music industry, but their visual presentation was already a passe in the US. They then renamed the band to be X Japan and concentrated their effort in Japan. The band had tremendous sold out and great successes.

Later, Taiji (bass) left the band and was replaced with Heath.

X Japan was famous for their amazing song written by Yoshiki, the 30 minutes long song 'Art of life' .

In 1996 their last album 'Dahlia' was released with another record breaking success. In 1997 Toshi decided to quit the band, in which was the end of X Japan in September 1997. They made a final Goodbye concert in December 97 with their last song 'The Last Song,' one of the most amazing, emotional, the best ballad I've ever listened to.

In 1998 a tragedy happened, Hide commited suicide. This shocking news hit the fans like a thundering twister all over Japan. In order to prevent National outcry and fanatical fans to follow Hide's action, all the remaining members of X Japan had to appear on National TV and discourage all their fans to commit suicide.

I will dedicate the next several posts to X Japan, perhaps of the best rock band in Japan's history and will remains to be a legend forever. Their continous ballad hits have been said to be among the best by American, European, Asian, and Japanese rock fans.

Clearly songs like 'Say Anything', 'Endless Rain', 'Tears', 'The Last Song', 'Forever Love', 'Crucify My Love' and many others have been placed among legendary songs like 'November Rain', 'Don't Cry' by Guns N' Roses or 'I was made for loving you' by Kiss.