Heath, the bassist of rock band X Japan, has died aged 55.
The news was announced in a statement issued by his band earlier this week, which stated that he died on October 29 after a battle with colorectal .
‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of X Japan’s esteemed bass player Heath after his battle with colorectal cancer, on October 29th, 2023, at the age of 55,’ the band wrote.
‘His cancer was found during an examination in June of this year.
‘Despite his efforts to battle the disease, his condition declined suddenly in October, and he took his last breath in the hospital.’
The statement went on: ‘We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who cherished Heath throughout his lifetime.
‘We, the members of X Japan have personally bid farewell to Heath, but are still deeply saddened and dismayed by his sudden loss.’
The statement went on: ‘Heath’s obituary was originally scheduled for release later in November in accordance with his family’s wishes, but it is being announced earlier due to unwarranted media coverage.’
The funeral details remain undisclosed with a small ceremony of ‘immediate family’ set to take place.
Written on their official website, the band’s members wrote their own heartfelt tributes to Heath, real name Hiroshi Morie.
The band formed in 1982 with drummer and pianist Yoshiki and lead vocalist Toshi.
Heath joined in 1992 after bassist Taiji left, with the band also including lead guitarist Hide and rhythm guitarist Pata.
Hide died in 1998, being replaced as lead guitarist by Sugizo
X Japan has released five studio albums, six life albums and 21 singles, and reportedly sold over 30million records.
