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YOSHIKI, the drummer and leader of X Japan, has been closely following the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires and has actively shared ways for fans to help. Now, YOSHIKI has donated 500 thousand dollars to support the victims of the wildfires. The fires, which began on January 7, have caused significant damage, with three fires nearing containment at the time of the donation announcement: the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, and Hughes Fire. At the time of writing, the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire are left.
The donation, made through YOSHIKI’s 501(c)(3) non-profit, will benefit seven organizations: MusiCares®, World Central Kitchen, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, American Red Cross, Motion Picture & Television Fund, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and Entertainment Community Fund.
Based on our assessment, these organizations will not only assist with immediate relief efforts but also provide long-term support for those impacted, including emergency aid, medical care, and recovery for the local entertainment community.
YOSHIKI, who began his career in Japan but has lived in Los Angeles for nearly 30 years, shared his personal feelings about the ongoing crisis:
I canceled all of my appearances overseas because I want to be here in LA to support my friends and community. I have lived in Los Angeles for almost 30 years, and it breaks my heart and gives me severe depression to see the city burning like this.
I was hearing sirens and helicopters flying over, all day and night. I was also forced to evacuate, but thankfully my place did not burn, although many friends have lost everything. It’s hard to comprehend what was going on here.
I’m deeply affected by this tragedy, and I’m praying for all those who have suffered from this tragedy. As I’ve been saying over the years, ‘Helping people helps yourself as well.’ I will keep supporting.
On January 25, YOSHIKI also shared how the situation caused him to feel depressed and how his “mental state is improving a little”.
Earlier today, YOSHIKI also shared that he has been diagnosed with depression and expressed his anxiety about participating in the volunteer event tomorrow.
YOSHIKI’s generosity has made a profound impact on the organizations benefiting from his donation, with leaders praising YOSHIKI’s commitment to crisis relief.
Laura Segura, Executive Director of MusiCares®, expressed deep gratitude, noting that YOSHIKI’s ongoing support provides essential resources for music professionals in need. Similarly, Linda Roth from World Central Kitchen highlighted how YOSHIKI’s local community support fuels their efforts. Cedars-Sinai’s Arthur J. Ochoa acknowledged the crucial role of YOSHIKI’s donation in aiding their wildfire relief work.
Anne McKeough from the American Red Cross also emphasized the importance of YOSHIKI’s contribution, which helps provide relief to those devastated by the fires.
The donation to aid Los Angeles wildfire victims adds to YOSHIKI’s history of philanthropy, which includes raising over 10 million dollars for Ukraine by encouraging fan donations, a 10 million yen donation for Taiwan earthquake victims, and various other efforts to assist those impacted by disasters.
YOSHIKI’s philanthropy continues to offer hope and aid to countless individuals affected by these tragedies, while at the same time, inspiring fans.
Update 2025-01-31: Added reference to YOSHIKI sharing his depression diagnose.