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HEATH, beloved bassist of X JAPAN, has passed away at 55

The music world has been struck with somber news as it came to light that HEATH, the bassist for the legendary rock band X JAPAN, has passed away. At 55 years old, his death was unexpected and has left fans and fellow musicians in a state of mourning. The tragic revelation surfaced through investigative efforts by the publication "Women Seven."

X JAPAN's leader, YOSHIKI, conveyed his grief through social media on November 3, accompanied by a photograph in mourning attire. His sudden return to Japan, canceling all scheduled commitments, including an 'Award of Honor' ceremony in the United States, was an emergency driven by this unforeseen bereavement. His journey led him to a certain facility in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where he faced HEATH in silence, bidding a final, wordless farewell.

Close acquaintances of HEATH unveiled that he had been battling ill health since the beginning of the year. A medical consultation revealed cancer, which was unfortunately found at an advanced stage. By late October, only a short time after the discovery, HEATH had succumbed to the illness. The rapid progression of his cancer left no time to inform even his bandmates of his condition or the ensuing battle.

Despite various issues that led to X JAPAN's inactivity since 2018, including internal strife among members, it was HEATH, as sources close to him recount, who held onto the hope of reuniting the band until his very last moments.

The upcoming issue of "Women Seven," releasing on Thursday, November 9, will delve deeper into HEATH's role as an irreplaceable figure within X JAPAN, his relationship with the members, the current estrangement between YOSHIKI and Toshl, and what the future holds for X JAPAN in the wake of HEATH's absence.

HEATH's departure is not just the loss of a band member but the fading of a dream for many loyal fans who had hoped to see X JAPAN together once more. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the music of X JAPAN and the hearts of those who supported them throughout the years.