Tragedy and Visual Kei: the legacy of X Japan, the masters of J-Rock

Despite the tragedies they faced, their music and legacy continue to inspire fans around the world

Formed in 1977, X Japan rose to fame in the late ’80s, leading the Visual Kei scene with their androgynous look and innovative music. The band, consisting of Yoshiki (drums), Toshi (vocals), Pata (guitar), Heath (bass) and Hide (guitar), combined elements of heavy metal, progressive rock and dramatic ballads, creating a unique sound that captivated audiences .

Their album “Blue Blood” (1989) established them as icons, with hits like “Kurenai” and “Endless Rain” becoming timeless J-Rock anthems. The band dominated the charts and sold out major arenas, cementing their place as one of the biggest Japanese bands of all time.

The tragedy, however, will mark the history of X Japan. In 1997 guitarist Hide tragically died, leaving an irreparable void in the band and the musical community. The band broke up in 1997, but reunited in 2007 for sporadic shows.

In 2011, bassist Taiji Sawada committed suicide by hanging himself. The band continued, releasing the album “The Last Live” in 2016, a tribute to its deceased members.

X Japan profoundly influenced J-Rock and Visual Kei, inspiring bands such as Dir En Grey, L’Arc~en~Ciel and Gackt. Their music and style continue to influence contemporary artists and attract new fans, cementing their legacy as one of the most important bands in Japanese rock history.

What is Visual Kei?

Visual Kei is more than a trend, it’s a true artistic movement in Japanese rock. It emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by an extravagant look, heavy makeup, elaborate hair, and dramatic clothing that does not follow gender standards.

The emphasis of Visual Kei groups is on performance, with very theatrical performances, a lot of energy and staging.

The music can range from heavy rock to ballads, but the visuals are what brings it all together.

Pioneering bands like X Japan used influences from glam rock, punk and even kabuki theater to form this aesthetic.

OX Japan is a legendary band that has left an indelible mark on the history of J-Rock. Despite the tragedies they faced, their music and legacy continue to inspire fans around the world.

Watch the video with comments by journalist and music producer Charley Gima, created for the channel FuteRock Formula.

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Source: Terra

Earl

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.