YOSHIKI Discusses Creativity and X JAPAN with Billy Corgan on New Podcast

YOSHKI appears on the latest episode of The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan.

In the interview, YOSHIKI and Corgan discuss the origins of X JAPAN and the visual kei movement. YOSHIKI explained his desire to break conventions, stating he wanted to "destroy all stereotypes." Corgan recalled his first trip to Japan in the early 1990s, describing X JAPAN's visual impact as so distinct it seemed like they were from another planet. He credited the band with much of visual kei's development.

YOSHIKI detailed his classical piano training and diverse rock influences, from KISS to David Bowie. He described composing X JAPAN's music by writing out detailed scores, building rock songs like an orchestra. The conversation covered the band's rapid rise from small venues to the Tokyo Dome and their decision to start their own label to maintain creative control.

The discussion also touched on YOSHIKI's work with legendary Beatles producer George Martin and the period after X JAPAN's dissolution. YOSHIKI spoke about considering a move behind the scenes before a performance for the Emperor's anniversary reignited his desire to return to the stage.

Near the end, the two artists debated creativity in the age of AI. YOSHIKI argued for the importance of human imperfection and spontaneous expression. Corgan agreed, noting that audiences seek the unique moment an artist creates.

YOSHIKI CLASSICAL 2026 will be held at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles on July 16 and 17.

Tickets and details for the Los Angeles concerts are available on the official website.

Source: PR Times via YOSHIKI PR事務局