Yoshiki - recovering from back surgery

Drummer, pianist and founder of popular rock group X Japan, YOSHIKI (43), flew in by helicopter to watch his "Team Yoshiki & Dome Project" car in the Super GT Series race at Suzuka Circuit on Sunday.

Yoshiki was wearing a neck brace and has his left arm in plaster, following surgery in late July in the U.S. on a slipped disc in his spine. He revealed that he would have to get the disk replaced within the next 3 years, and that if nerve damage in his arm did not heal in the next 2 years, then it would be permanent. He said doctors cautioned him not to raise his arms too high or twist his body left and right when practicing drumming.

Still Yoshiki is upbeat, saying the difficulties he faces are nothing compared to when the band split up in 1997 or when guitarist HIDE was found hanged in his apartment the next year.

He spoke of his involvement in the live video website Ustream.tv, and said he hopes to put out a best-of album before the end of the year, which will include some new songs he is working on now.

After watching his team car come in 4th, Yoshiki went to see Ise Shrine, also in Mie Prefecture, and prayed for a recovery in his health. Yoshiki also revealed that he has prepared his will given the risks involved with his spinal injusries, and that nearly 1/4 of his assets will be used for the benefit of his long-term fans.

>I also hope for Yoshiki's speedy recovery. His fans love him and I love him too. Just hope he doesn't over-work himself too much and injure himself again.

はやく　よく　なってね! - Get well soon!