X Japan bassist Heath has passed away at the age of 55. The veteran musician died in late October after a battle with cancer, but news of his passing is just making the rounds.
Born Hiroshi Morie, Heath joined X Japan in 1992 and stayed with them until their breakup in 1997. He rejoined the band when they reunited in 2007 and remained an active member until his death.
According to JRock News, Heath was diagnosed with cancer at the beginning of this year, but kept his condition secret from his bandmates.
X Japan leader Yoshiki recently canceled a November 1st appearance at an awards gala in San Francisco, stating “someone close to me passed away.” It is now reported that Yoshiki flew to Tokyo to pay his respects to his longtime bandmate.
Heath replaced X Japan’s previous bassist Taiji, who had left the band earlier in 1992. Tragically, Taiji died in 2011, following the deaths of classic members Hide in 1998 and Terry in 2002.
X Japan have not released a full-length album since 1996’s Dahlia. However, the band has released sporadic singles since reuniting in 2007. This past summer, they unveiled “Angel,” their first new song in eight years, with reports of a new album on the way.
As early pioneers of the visual kei movement, X Japan found enormous success in Japan with their striking look and power-metal anthems. They are reported to have sold more than 30 million albums during the course of their career. The band last performed live in 2018, including two sets at Coachella that year.
Our condolences go out to Heath’s family, friends, and bandmates during this difficult time. Revisit his work in X Japan in the videos for their classic hit “Rusty Nail” and the more recent “Jade” below.