YOSHIKI Reflects on Music, Life, Legacy & His New Collaboration ‘Forever Love (Live)’ With Josh Groban: Interview
YOSHIKI and Josh Groban have released a live collaboration on “Forever Love”, recorded after they performed it together in Los Angeles. The new version marks 30 years since the song’s 1996 release and brings English lyrics into its verse, aiming to connect with listeners in both Japanese and English.
YOSHIKI said he first met Groban in 2016 and chose him for the performance because he felt Groban’s voice would suit the song. He lowered its original key by a seventh after listening to dozens of Groban’s recordings. YOSHIKI also reflected that he wrote the song during a difficult period, believing his music might outlast him; he said listeners’ support has helped him carry on.
- YOSHIKI and Josh Groban released a live version of “Forever Love”.
- The collaboration marks 30 years since the original song’s release.
- YOSHIKI adapted the key and lyrics for the performance.
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YOSHIKI is a Japanese musician, composer and songwriter, best known as a founding member of the rock band X Japan. “Forever Love” is one of his best-known songs, first released in 1996; he wrote it during a difficult period in his life.
Josh Groban is an American singer known for his powerful voice and performances in several musical styles. YOSHIKI said he met Groban in 2016 and later chose him to sing the song because he thought their voices would work well together.
The song’s Japanese and English lyrics bring together two languages and audiences. YOSHIKI has said that listeners’ support has helped him continue making music, and that he hopes his work will endure beyond his lifetime.