X Japan (エックス・ジャパン) is one of the biggest metal bands to come out of Japan. They are one of the founders of the Visual Kei movement in the 80s and are one of the first Japanese bands to achieve mainstream success while on an independent label.

Formed in 1982 by drummer Yoshiki and lead vocalist Toshi, X Japan was formerly named as X (エックス). They changed the name to X Japan in an effort to globally spread their music in the USA. X Japan’s music style is predominantly power/speed metal with heavy symphonic elements, which later moved towards a more progressive sound with an emphasis on ballads.

They were most active during the 80s and 90s, until 1997 where they decided to disband and performed their Last Live concert. 10 years later, they reunited and have a new album in the works that has been worked on for years.