At a press conference held on Friday, August 22 at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, YOSHIKI announced that he will give a special live performance on November 20 at Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage site in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. This concert will mark his first overseas performance since undergoing his third neck surgery in October of last year.
The event, titled “Hegra Candlelit Classics,” will take place on a mystical stage surrounded by ancient tombs built approximately 2,000 years ago, lit by thousands of candles. As one of Japan’s most celebrated composers, pianists, and drummers, YOSHIKI has sold out world-renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York and Royal Albert Hall in London, receiving high acclaim for his powerful stage presence. This concert will be a truly exceptional evening where the fusion of rock and classical music will echo through a setting steeped in ancient history — a one-of-a-kind experience globally.
The first half of the night will feature Grammy-nominated trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf, who has captivated audiences at festivals around the world. YOSHIKI will headline the event, closing the show.
YOSHIKI was named to TIME magazine’s “TIME100: Most Influential People in the World” in April 2025. In 2024, he became the first Japanese artist to leave hand and footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. In addition to music, he is active globally in fashion, film, wine production, and charity, with his influence continuing to grow across multiple fields — leading to this prestigious opportunity.
During the press conference, YOSHIKI shared:“As many of you may know, I underwent neck surgery in October of last year and am still going through careful rehabilitation. I was unsure how or when I would return to performing, so I initially hesitated when I received the offer. But I realized this concert could carry great meaning, not just personally but also for future cultural exchange between Japan and Saudi Arabia. I feel truly honored and excited to perform in such a historically significant setting. I owe this all to my fans.”
The concert date, November 20, is also YOSHIKI’s birthday, adding even more personal significance to the occasion. The Hegra stage has hosted only the most renowned artists in the world, including Andrea Bocelli and Ludovico Einaudi. Now, YOSHIKI joins them as the newest artist selected for this rare and prestigious honor. The music performed amid the ancient ruins and glowing candlelight is expected to transcend time and culture, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
At the conclusion of the press conference, YOSHIKI gave a special live piano performance on stage.“If only I could bring rain for peace across the world… I’d like to play ‘ENDLESS RAIN,’ which I hope to perform in Saudi Arabia as well.”
As he began playing, the room filled with emotion, moving fans and media alike.
Concert Information – Hegra Candlelit Classics
Official Event Page
Date: November 20, 2025 (Local Time)
Time: Doors open at 6:30 PM / Concert begins around 10:45 PM
Venue: Hegra, AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Ticket Prices: General Admission: 600 SAR ( $160 USD)
Premium Admission: 900 SAR ($240 USD)
Register on the official event site to receive the latest ticket updates
YOSHIKI Official Site: https://www.yoshiki.net/
YOSHIKI YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/yoshikiofficial
YOSHIKI Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoshikiofficial/
