YOSHIKI to Perform National Anthems at Historic 2025 MLB Opening Day in Tokyo

TOKYO – Internationally acclaimed composer, rock musician, and philanthropist YOSHIKI has been selected by Major League Baseball (MLB) to perform both the American and Japanese national anthems at the highly anticipated 2025 MLB Opening Day in Tokyo. The event, set for March 18 at the iconic Tokyo Dome, will see the reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, take on the Chicago Cubs in a historic showdown.

This special occasion will mark YOSHIKI’s first public performance since undergoing his third major neck surgery in October 2024. Known for his intense and physically demanding performances as a rock drummer and classical pianist, YOSHIKI’s return to the stage is a testament to his resilience and passion for music. His performance is expected to symbolize unity and the enduring connection between Japan and the United States through sports and culture.

The 2025 MLB Opening Day holds particular significance as it will feature some of Japan’s most celebrated baseball stars. The Dodgers’ roster includes Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto—three Japanese players returning to their home country for this monumental event. Meanwhile, the Cubs will showcase Japanese talents Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, further elevating the excitement for baseball fans worldwide.

YOSHIKI is no stranger to historic performances. In 1999, he composed and performed “Anniversary” in honor of the 10th anniversary of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan’s accession to the throne, delivering the piece in front of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. His cultural impact extends beyond music, as demonstrated by his 2023 achievement of becoming the first Japanese artist to be immortalized in Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre, where his hand and footprints were placed alongside the world’s biggest stars.

Speaking on this latest honor, YOSHIKI stated, “I feel honored to be part of this major event. I’ve performed the American anthem at Dodger Stadium and Carnegie Hall, but this will be my first time performing the Japanese national anthem in front of a live audience. This will also be my first performance since my neck surgery, but I will do my best to honor these beautiful songs and contribute to the special bond between the U.S., Japan, and the rest of the world.”

With an audience spanning the globe, YOSHIKI’s performance at MLB Opening Day 2025 is set to be a powerful moment, highlighting the intersection of music, sports, and international unity.

SOURCE YOSHIKI