Tokyo International News Agency

On March 10th, the 24th anniversary of popular visual kei band the GazettE's formation, it was announced that guitarist Aoi has withdrawn from the band, causing a significant stir on social media platform 'X'. Many fans expressed deep sadness and surprise at the end of the long-loved five-member lineup, stating, 'the GazettE is now down to four members,' and 'I loved the five-member the GazettE.' Member RUKI also commented, 'As of today, the GazettE will be a four-member band, including Reita. This decision was reached after a year of struggling and agonizing together as a group,' hinting at the painful nature of their resolution. The announcement of Aoi's departure was made on a special day, the band's anniversary, yet information among fans is convoluted. Some posts questioned the timing, asking 'It makes no sense' and 'Why announce it today?' given that Aoi's departure was reportedly at the end of September last year, b...

Shinya, the acclaimed drummer for popular rock band LUNA SEA, passed away at 6:16 PM on February 17, 2026, at the age of 56. The news of his death was announced on February 23 by his wife, former Morning Musume member Aya Ishiguro, via social media, sending profound sorrow and shock through their vast fanbase. Ms. Ishiguro shared a heartfelt message titled "To everyone who supported Shinya," stating, "My husband, Shinya, the drummer of LUNA SEA, has peacefully drawn his last breath. On his behalf, I extend my sincerest gratitude for the kindness shown to him throughout his life." Shinya had been bravely battling stage 4 colon cancer since 2020, with a brain tumor also discovered last year. He had been diligently undergoing rehabilitation, aiming for a return to live performances in March, when this sudden and tragic event occurred. Following this devastating announcement, social media platforms were flooded with messages of grief from countless fans. Posts such as ...