| Quick Info | |
|---|---|
| Name | Hide |
| Date of Birth | December 13, 1964 |
| Profession | Musician |
| Place of Birth | Yokosuka |
| Home Town | Kanagawa Prefecture |
| Country | Japan |
| Date of Death | 1998-05-02 |
| Place of Death | Tokyo, Japan |
| Cause of Death | Suicide |
| Manner of Death | Hanging |
| Institute | Zushi Kaisei Junior and Senior High School |
| Siblings | Hiroshi Matsumoto |
Early Years and Education
Hide, whose real name was Hideto Matsumoto, was born on December 13, 1964, in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a saxophonist and his mother a dancer. Hide showed an early interest in music and began playing the guitar at a young age.
He attended Zushi Kaisei Junior and Senior High School, where he met his lifelong friend and future bandmate, Yoshiki Hayashi. It was during this time that Hide’s passion for music truly blossomed, and he began to dream of becoming a professional musician.
Rise to Fame with X Japan
Hide’s big break came when he joined the iconic Japanese rock band X Japan in 1987. As the lead guitarist, Hide’s flamboyant style and virtuosic playing quickly made him a fan favorite. X Japan became one of the most successful and influential bands in Japanese rock history, blending elements of metal, punk, and glam rock to create a unique sound.
Hide’s contributions to X Japan’s music were significant, with his catchy riffs and melodic solos helping to define the band’s sound. His onstage persona, complete with colorful costumes and wild hair, also made him a larger-than-life figure in the Japanese music scene.
Impact on Japanese Rock Scene
Hide’s influence on the Japanese rock scene cannot be overstated. His innovative guitar playing and charismatic stage presence inspired a generation of musicians and fans. X Japan’s success paved the way for other Japanese rock bands to gain international recognition, helping to popularize the genre worldwide.
Hide’s solo career also saw him experiment with different musical styles, from pop to industrial rock, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His solo albums were well-received by both fans and critics, further solidifying his status as a musical icon.
Tragic Death and Legacy
Despite his success, Hide struggled with mental health issues throughout his life. On May 2, 1998, he was found dead in his Tokyo apartment, having taken his own life at the age of 33. His death sent shockwaves through the Japanese music industry and devastated his fans around the world.
The circumstances surrounding Hide’s death remain a topic of speculation and controversy. Some believe that he was struggling with depression and anxiety, while others point to external pressures and conflicts within X Japan as contributing factors. Regardless of the reasons, Hide’s passing left a void in the hearts of many who had been touched by his music.
Relationship with Hiroshi Matsumoto
Hide had a close relationship with his younger brother, Hiroshi Matsumoto, who also pursued a career in music. Hiroshi supported Hide throughout his career, often appearing in his music videos and attending his concerts. The bond between the two brothers was evident in their shared love of music and their mutual respect for each other’s talents.
After Hide’s death, Hiroshi continued to honor his brother’s legacy by preserving his music and sharing it with fans. He also became an advocate for mental health awareness, speaking openly about the struggles that Hide faced and encouraging others to seek help when needed.
Net Worth 2024
As of 2024, Hide’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. The majority of his wealth comes from his music career, including album sales, concert tours, and merchandise. Additionally, royalties from his extensive catalog of songs continue to generate income for his estate.
Hide’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. His impact on the Japanese rock scene is undeniable, and his tragic death serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness in the music industry.
In conclusion, Hide was a pioneering figure in Japanese rock music whose influence continues to be felt today. From his early years in Yokosuka to his rise to fame with X Japan, Hide’s talent and charisma captivated audiences around the world. His tragic death in 1998 shocked the music community but also sparked important conversations about mental health and self-care.
Through his music and legacy, Hide will always be remembered as a true rock icon whose impact transcends borders and generations. His brother Hiroshi continues to honor his memory, ensuring that Hide’s music remains alive for years to come. As fans and fellow musicians reflect on Hide’s life and legacy, they are reminded of the power of music to connect us all and the importance of taking care of our mental well-being.