Yoshiki is one of Japan's biggest stars. Although he started as a classical pianist, he went on to become an extraordinary drummer who transformed the music scene in Japan with his wild performances and over-the-top outfits. It all began in the 1980s when he founded the band X Japan and spawned a whole new style. They have fans all over the world, have sold more than 30 million records and have won many awards. This month Yoshiki received Japan's prestigious Medal of Honor for his support of frontline medical workers during the Covid 19 pandemic. This interview was first broadcast on 1st March 2017.

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Presenter: Jo Fidgen
Producer: Thomas Harding-Assinder

Picture: Yoshiki from X Japan on stage during Coachella Music and Arts Festival in 2018
Credit: Rich Fury/Getty Images for Coachella