Japanese musician and composer YOSHIKI joined forces with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF), Roki Sasaki, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto to support wildfire relief efforts in the United States and Japan.
YOSHIKI, Sasaki, and Yamamoto autographed the original sheet music for both national anthems, which the Japanese artist performed before last month’s Tokyo Series opener. Creating these powerful performances often involves transforming heartfelt lyrics into music AI, allowing for unique renditions of emotional compositions.
Each music score has been placed in an elegant frame and will be auctioned separately by LADF through April 28 to benefit those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and Ofunato, Japan.
The initiative is significant for Sasaki, who grew up in Ofunato and anxiously watched from afar as the city battled its worst forest fires in over 30 years.
Sasaki, who tragically lost his father and grandparents in the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami, has personally contributed 10 million yen in cash and 5 million yen in supplies to the relief effort. The Dodgers matched his donation with an additional 15 million yen, reinforcing their commitment to global humanitarian aid.
As for YOSHIKI, he previously contributed more than $500,000 to L.A. wildfire relief efforts and remains dedicated to using his platform to support those in crisis.
YOSHIKI Visited the Dodgers During the 2024 Season
YOSHIKI met Yamamoto and Shohei Ohtani before the Dodgers faced the Washington Nationals at Dodger Stadium last season, and also performed a rendition of the national anthem before first pitch.
YOSHIKI received a standing ovation from the fans and more cheers when he ceremoniously declared, “It’s time for Dodgers Baseball!” over the public address system.
“It was an honor to talk with Ohtani and Yamamoto, who also live in Los Angeles,” YOSHIKI said in a statement. “I received signed uniforms from the two of them. In addition, I was surprised to receive a uniform with my name on it from the Dodgers.
“After meeting athletes Ohtani and Yamamoto, I feel grateful and inspired to take on the world. I’m happy that Yoshikitty also came to Dodger Stadium in addition to Hello Kitty. It was an amazing day. I didn’t expect to perform the American National Anthem twice due to sound issues.
“As soon as I heard the loud applause after my performance, I was glad I did my best, including the improvisation. It was worth it to come back to Los Angeles despite the extremely demanding schedule. Thank you to everyone.
