On November 20 (local time), YOSHIKI headlined the “Hegra Candlelit Classics” concert at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hegra in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, his first full performance since undergoing his third cervical spine surgery last October and his first overseas appearance since the procedure. This historic concert commemorated the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia, with YOSHIKI becoming the first Japanese artist to perform at the ancient ruins, symbolizing a new “bridge of cultural exchange” between the two nations.
YOSHIKI was formally invited by the Saudi Arabian government in recognition of his global artistic influence. Members of the Saudi royal family, the Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, dignitaries, and fans from around the world gathered to witness the landmark moment. His powerful performance received overwhelming praise, with attendees describing themselves as “blown away” and “moved to tears.”
The concert took place at Hegra, a complex of ancient tombs built approximately 2,000 years ago and Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prestigious stage - previously reserved for world-renowned masters such as Andrea Bocelli and Ludovico Einaudi - became the setting for an extraordinary evening. YOSHIKI’s piano melodies blended seamlessly with the stillness of the ancient site, illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that completely captivated the audience.
During “Kurenai,” the ruins were illuminated in deep crimson, producing a breathtaking fusion of history and music. Inspired by the profound energy of the location, YOSHIKI told the audience, “This place has given me such strong inspiration,” and premiered his new song “LARMES,” meaning “tears” in French. Its emotional sound echoed through the venue. He also performed “THE SEINE,” a new composition completed in August.
A total of 12 pieces were featured in the program, including his signature works “ENDLESS RAIN,” “Kurenai,” and “ART OF LIFE.”
YOSHIKI also collaborated with world-renowned trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf. Just hours before the concert, they surprised the audience by debuting a new co-written piece titled “ALULA.” The intertwining piano and trumpet created a stunning “sonic dialogue” against the dramatic backdrop of the ancient ruins, leaving listeners captivated.
As the first Japanese artist to perform at this venue, YOSHIKI expressed his deep gratitude, saying it was “a true honor to be here,” especially on a night that also marked his birthday. The day before the concert, a talk session titled “YOSHIKI at AlUla Music Hub” was held as part of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs-certified “70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” The session offered a meaningful exchange of ideas on fostering cultural, musical, and artistic collaboration between the two nations.
As international cultural exchange becomes increasingly important, this performance and the surrounding events highlight YOSHIKI’s significant role as a bridge between Japan and Saudi Arabia. After the concert, he expressed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “It’s because of all of you that I’ve been able to stand here until today,” once again affirming the power of music to connect people across borders. The night echoed throughout the World Heritage Site, marking the beginning of a new and memorable chapter in YOSHIKI’s storied career.
<Hegra Candlelit Classics – Set List>
1.ALULA feat IBRAHIM
2.TEARS
3.AMETHYST with BEVERLY
4.紅
5.MIRACLE with ASHLEY
6.LARMES
7.SWAN LAKE
8.THE SEINE with ASHLEY
9.RED SWAN with BEVERLY
10.REQUIEM
11.ART OF LIFE
12.ENDLESS RAIN
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