TOKYO, JAPAN (April 14, 2025) ¨C Following YOSHIKI¡¯s historic performance of the U.S. and Japanese national anthems at the 2025 Major League Baseball Opening Day in Tokyo, world-renowned composer, rockstar and philanthropist YOSHIKI has joined forces with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) and Japanese baseball stars Roki Sasaki and Yoshinobu Yamamoto in show of solidarity to support wildfire relief efforts in both the U.S. and Japan.
In collaboration with LADF, YOSHIKI, Sasaki and Yamamoto have autographed the original sheet music for both national anthems, authenticated by Major League Baseball. Each music score has been placed in an elegant frame and will be auctioned separately by LADF from April 14 through April 28 to benefit those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and Ofunato, Japan.
This initiative carries deep personal significance for Roki Sasaki, whose hometown of Ofunato battled its worst forest fires in over 30 years. Sasaki, who tragically lost his father and grandparents in the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami, has personally contributed 10 million yen in cash and 5 million yen in supplies to the relief effort. The Los Angeles Dodgers matched his donation with an additional 15 million yen, reinforcing their commitment to global humanitarian aid.
For YOSHIKI, philanthropy has long been a cornerstone of his career. He has previously contributed over $500,000 to L.A. wildfire relief efforts and remains dedicated to using his platform to support those in crisis. YOSHIKI and his band X JAPAN donated 50 million yen to the victims of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami.
YOSHIKI¡¯s performance at Tokyo Dome marked a groundbreaking moment in Major League Baseball history. Having composed for world leaders and prestigious global events, this was the first time he performed Japan¡¯s national anthem live before an audience. It was also his first performance since his recent neck surgery, following years of intense and physically demanding rock performances. His powerful renditions set the tone for an unforgettable Opening Day, symbolizing the deep cultural and sporting ties between the U.S. and Japan and underscoring the importance of the universal languages of music and sports.
The signed and authenticated national anthem scores will be available for bidding at Dodgers.com/auctions. Fans may participate by visiting dodgers.com/auctions. All net proceeds will directly support vital wildfire relief initiatives in the aforementioned areas.