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This group (who was originally named X, but later, due to legal reasons, was forced to change their name to X-Japan) is arguably one of the most legendary rock bands in Japanese history. They started the rock movement known as "visual kei", and basically introduced heavy metal to main stream Japanese music listeners. Even thought heir major label debut was 1989, they were extremely popular in the rock music scene even while they were still indies (with their original bassist Taiji, later to be replaced by Heath). Though they toned down their image as time went by, X-Japan continued to stay fairly true to their rock roots all throughout their career as a band. The group disbanded in 1997, releasing their last single, and holding a huge concert finale at the Tokyo Dome. Even before the breakup of the group, all of the various members had their own projects: Toshi had a solo career singing primarily ballads. Hide had a very successful rock solo career (later on with band Spread Beaver). Pata had some solo material, but would end up working with Heath on a rock project called Dope HeadZ. Yoshiki produced a variety of different material, including his famed Violet UK project, but never really released anything in the way of solo material. Yoshiki would also collaborate with pop group Globe for a short time, before leaving due to musical differences. After Hide's death in 1998, a one-time reunion was held by the group for his funeral proceedings.