Watch YOSHIKI Perform Rock Version of Japanese National Anthem at 2026 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix

By BHM | Published: Apr 01, 2026 4:50 PM EDT

(BHM) YOSHIKI - composer, classically trained pianist, and Japan's biggest rock star - amazed global racing fans with his performance of "Kimigayo", the Japanese national anthem, at the start of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship Series Aramco Japanese Grand Prix Race at the Suzuka Circuit on Sunday, March 29.

Celebrated as "one of the most influential composers in Japanese history", YOSHIKI created a unique fusion of his classical abilities and signature hard rock drumming style for an unforgettable live show in front of 130,000 spectators, the highest attendance since F1 resumed in 2009, which was broadcast to 180 countries.

The special arrangement of "Kimigayo," performed with piano and drums, began with a serene classical piano melody, evoking quiet beauty. As the drums joined, it built into a powerful rock-infused crescendo, bringing intense tension and overwhelming impact to the moments just before the race started.

Following the performance, the crowd gave a thunderous ovation, and the official F1 broadcast commentators said, "Wow, I loved that! I felt that in my bones!"

On social media, reactions included comments such as "YOSHIKI PLAYING THE ANTHEM!!! GOATED OH MY GOD," "YOSHIKI adding double bass and blastbeats to the Japanese anthem wasn't on my bingo card, but it was cool," and "It's truly an incredible arrangement-it sounds amazing!!!!!" Alongside these, many praised it as "the coolest rock-style national anthem ever" and "absolutely incredible," with admiration spreading worldwide.

Further reactions described it as "a truly historic performance," "You won over the audience and set new standards!" "Now THIS is how a national anthem gets done," and "That was one epic rock-themed national anthem!" Comments such as "YOSHIKI's arrangement perfectly matched the F1 pre-start atmosphere" continued to flood in, generating widespread acclaim both in Japan and internationally.

After the performance, YOSHIKI immediately boarded a helicopter to return to Tokyo for final rehearsals before his sold-out three-day residency April 3-5 at Tokyo Garden Theater, which serves as the kickoff of his Yoshiki Classical 2026 World Tour.

Last week, The Music Center's Walt Disney Concert Hall announced it will host YOSHIKI for two exclusive nights on July 16 and 17, 2026. Titled "Scarlet Night" and "Violet Night", these performances mark YOSHIKI's highly anticipated U.S. return following his third cervical spine surgery in late 2024. YOSHIKI will change the set list for each performance, making this an unforgettable experience for fans. The concert series represents a "rebirth" for the artist, blending his signature cinematic compositions with the unmatched acoustics of Los Angeles' most iconic architectural landmark.