YOSHIKI Reflects on Music, Life, Legacy & His New Collaboration ‘Forever Love (Live)’ With Josh Groban: Interview
Billboard JAPAN sat down with YOSHIKI to talk about how the collaboration came together and what's next.
YOSHIKI and Josh Groban have collaborated on a new rendition of "Forever Love (Live), originally released by X JAPAN in 1996. The ballad was performed live at YOSHIKI CLASSICAL 2026 IN LOS ANGELES AT WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL "VIOLET NIGHT" on July 17, 2026. YOSHIKI first met Josh at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016, and he decided to include Josh in the concert after seeing him perform earlier in Japan.
YOSHIKI lowered the key of the song for Josh, who sang it in his comfortable range, creating a powerful dynamic sound for the listener. Writing the song in 1996, YOSHIKI was living a chaotic life, feeling pessimistic about his own future, but he believed that love was eternal and named the song "Forever Love." He feels thankful for the support he has received throughout his life and believes that creating music and philanthropic work gives his life meaning and saves him.
YOSHIKI is constantly taking on challenges and living his life to the fullest, inspired by the support he receives from his fans and friends. He plans to keep releasing music and collaborating with various artists, striving to make the most of his existence and the purpose of life.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
