To say they were the most influential band in recent Japanese history would be a vast understatement.

one of the best bands in japan ever. literally, they revolutionized japans music style

The best band ever to grace this planet! Hide R.I.P you will live forever in our hearts!
yoshiki possibly the best drummer ever

YOU RULE!

X-Japan started out as a band called Noise. At the age of only twelve the leader of the band Yoshiki Hayashi and the vocalist and co-founder of the band Toshimitsu Deyama decided to form a band. Yoshiki being the great musician he is had begun to write lyrics and probably music at an even younger age. After his father commited suicide at age 33 Yoshiki wrote the song "Tears" for his father at the age of only ten. The song went on to become one of X-Japan greatest and most famous ballads.

In 1985 the band's name was changed to X. The first firm lineup of the band developed. The members at the time were Toshi on vocals, Pata and hide on guitar, Taiji on bass and Yoshiki on drums and piano. In 1985 the band released their first single "I'll Kill You" on Dada Records. X was known for visual kei (a music genre that involves feminine looks and obscure music) which was not praised during that time. Yoshiki founded his own record label EXTASY RECORDS in 1985 to ensure production for X (he gets even more amazing doesn't he?).

In 1988 the band's first album "Vanishing Vision" was released. This album brought into play some of the most recalled heavier songs for the band. Songs such as Phantom of Guilt and Sadistic Desire. It also brought to us the highly favorited rock ballad Alive. The band also made a cameo appearance in the comedy movie "Tokyo Pop" in 1988.

In 1989 X was signed to Sony Records and their 2nd album "Blue Blood" was released. This album provided Endless Rai...

1980's Glam rock/Hair metal from Japan.
Not quite new or revolutionary, just a hair metal band that formed after the whole hair metal era.