YOSHIKI headlined the music event 'Global Citizen LIVE: Tokyo,' held on Thursday, June 18, at Tokyo International Forum.
'Global Citizen LIVE: Tokyo' is a music event by Global Citizen, the world's largest movement aiming to end extreme poverty. This marked the first time the event was held in Japan, featuring performances by YOSHIKI, &TEAM, AI, and Yuki Chiba. Chris Peppler served as the event's MC.
Since its founding in 2008, Global Citizen has hosted music events worldwide, with stage appearances by global superstars such as Beyoncé, Coldplay, BTS, BLACKPINK, Rihanna, Ed Sheeran, Mariah Carey, Stray Kids, Billie Eilish, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. YOSHIKI now joins this elite lineup as the headline performer for the inaugural Japanese edition.
YOSHIKI's performance began with a powerful drum solo that instantly transformed the atmosphere of the venue. The moment his signature blend of classical elegance and intense rock drumming filled the hall, the audience erupted in cheers, enveloping Tokyo International Forum in electrifying energy.
A sharp guitar riff echoed through the hall, drawing all eyes to the stage—where MIYAVI made his entrance. The crowd roared as YOSHIKI's piano and MIYAVI's guitar united in a resonant performance of the classic 'FOREVER LOVE,' further intensifying the excitement.
Next came the world premiere of the brand-new collaborative track 'DEAD-END DRIVE,' co-created with MIYAVI. Completed only on the day of the performance, the track featured a dynamic clash between YOSHIKI's fierce drumming and MIYAVI's guitar work, creating an unpredictable and gripping performance that captivated the audience from the first note.
The energy surged further during 'Red Swan,' as YOSHIKI's longtime collaborator HYDE took the stage, with MIYAVI continuing on guitar. The audience erupted once again as YOSHIKI's piano, HYDE's vocals, and MIYAVI's guitar intertwined, creating a one-of-a-kind performance. The grand fusion of rock and classical elements sent the crowd into a frenzy.
Next, YOSHIKI welcomed guest vocalist Beverly to perform 'Golden.' Originally known as the theme song for Netflix's 'KPop Demon Hunters' and a global hit in 2025, YOSHIKI performed the song spontaneously in response to fan requests. The powerful yet delicate moment was brought to life by YOSHIKI's beautiful piano and Beverly's soaring vocals.
Midway through the set, the haunting melodies of YOSHIKI's piano and violin merged, spreading the world of 'Kurenai' across the entire venue. Bathed in red lighting, the audience seemed to turn crimson. As Keiju appeared on stage, a wave of excitement and cheers surged through the crowd, further elevating the energy. The momentum carried into 'Rusty Nail,' with Keiju, Kei, Rui, and YUI joining for a lavish stage production that brought the audience's excitement to its peak.
Another standout moment was YOSHIKI's DJ set, which drew significant attention. His performance of 'ART OF LIFE,' fusing classical music with EDM, marked a bold new artistic direction and showcased a groundbreaking stage unlike any in his previous career.
Drums, piano, and DJ—YOSHIKI delivered a breathtaking performance, masterfully switching between three distinct artistic expressions. Far from being confined to the labels of 'rock artist' or 'classical artist,' this performance powerfully affirmed his status as a globally influential artist who has been at the forefront of the international music scene for over three decades from his base in the United States.
The finale, 'ENDLESS RAIN,' saw YOSHIKI's piano resonate through the hall as the audience raised their smartphone lights, transforming the venue into a sea of light. Amid thunderous cheers and endless applause, stage and audience became one, closing the historic first 'Global Citizen LIVE: Tokyo' with an emotionally charged finale.
With star-studded collaborations, a world premiere of a new song, and a one-of-a-kind performance combining drums, piano, and DJing, YOSHIKI embodied the power of music and the mission of Global Citizen, delivering an overwhelming presence as the headline act.
YOSHIKI will next appear as a special guest at 'Japan Expo' in Paris, France, on July 10, celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Then, on July 16 and 17, he will present 'YOSHIKI CLASSICAL 2026' at the prestigious Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. This concert marks the second chapter of YOSHIKI's full-scale comeback world tour. On the 16th, the event will be themed 'Scarlet Night,' and on the 17th, 'Violet Night,' each featuring a unique program. These two special nights will blend the beauty of classical music, the dynamism of rock, and YOSHIKI's signature modern expression.
Additionally, in August, YOSHIKI will host the 'EVENING / BREAKFAST with YOSHIKI 2026 in TOKYO JAPAN' 100th ANNIVERSARY event at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo. Announced as the 100th performance, the event generated massive demand—its initial five shows sold out before general release—leading to the addition of two more performances, bringing the total to seven.
<Global Citizen LIVE: Tokyo Setlist>
1. DRUM SOLO 2. FOREVER LOVE (MIYAVI) 3. DEAD-END DRIVE (MIYAVI) 4. RED SWAN (HYDE / MIYAVI) 5. GOLDEN (Beverly) 6. KURENAI (Keiju) 7. RUSTY NAIL (Keiju / Kei / Rui / YUI) 8. ART OF LIFE 9. ENDLESS RAIN
<YOSHIKI CLASSICAL Los Angeles Concert Overview>
YOSHIKI CLASSICAL 2026 IN LOS ANGELES WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL
“SCARLET NIGHT & VIOLET NIGHT”
Date: July 16 (Thu) and 17 (Fri), 2026 (local time)
Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall
Ticket Details: https://www.yoshiki.net/disneyhall2026
<Dinner Show Event Overview>
Title: 'EVENING / BREAKFAST with YOSHIKI 2026 in TOKYO JAPAN'
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Event
- Organizations: Global Citizen