X Japan were one of the first visual bands in Japan and also one of the most popular. They started in the mid-80's with the union of school friends Yoshiki (drums and piano) and Toshi (lead vocals). After that they joined with a couple other guys and formed the band X.
They released the two singles I'll Kill You and Orgasm and made it on two compilation albums with other Japanese newcomer bands. At that time Pata (guitar) and Taiji (bass) joined the band.

In 1988 they made their first album Vanishing Vision and hired a second guitarist, hide. The album was released on Yoshiki's new record label Extasy. It was a great success and they changed to Sony Records. More albums - Blue Blood and Jealousy - and more touring followed.

With Jealousy they tried to come out in America, but no one there wanted visual bands. They renamed the band X Japan because in America, there was already a band called X. The band had great success in Japan and the members also made solo projects.

At this time Taiji (bass) left the band and was replaced by Heath. Yoshiki wrote the 29 minutes-long song Art of Life which was the first record on their new label Atlantic Records.

In 1996 finally came their last album Dahlia. In the spring of 1997 Toshi (vocals) decided to quit the band for 'artistic and religious reasons', so they announced their disbandment in September 1997. They played a final goodbye concert in December.

The members made different solo projects. In 1998 a tragedy happened: hide committed suicide for unknown reasons. The fans were shocked. Yoshiki drew back from public.

On June 4, 2007 it was confirmed that the band will reunite, with a new single "Without You" and a tour tentatively scheduled for later this year.

Source: www.sponichi.co.jp/entertainment/news/2007/06/04/01.html