I Spent a Week with Japan's Biggest Rock Star

[@AbroadinJapan]

NOTIFICATION SQUAD: 7 years ago when I first arrived in Japan, amidst my frustrating attempts to learn Japanese I started watching an anime series after I got home from work. It was a hilarious show called GTO (Great Teacher Onizuka), and at the start of each episode it kicked off with an iconic theme tune called "Drivers High" by the band L'arc en Ciel. If somebody had told me back then I'd be spending a week with the frontman, Hyde, all these years later, I would have laughed them out of my treacherously small apartment. This was easily one of the most surreal experiences in my time in Japan so far, I had an absolute blast meeting a rock legend who means so much to so many people - and of course, teaching him some swear words along the way. Best of all, it felt great to take Natsuki along for the ride as well. His shocked expression said more than words ever could! I hope you enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit watching his dream come true!

[@Kage-jk4pj]

Chris is a weeeaboo confirmed!

[@neaaat5545]

first

[@UndeadAlex]

Never been this early for one of your videos, so glad youtube showed it.

[@malusa123]

as surreal as having such individuals as ryotoro and natsuki to star on your platform?

[@markmclean8858]

I like you even more now. Drivers High is great and GTO is great.

[@ruki4929]

Chris looks like a dad that won a VIP ticket by accident

[@Funny1Bone]

Literally thought the same thing! Love Chris but damn, couldn't he dress a bit more metal to meet a Rockstar! lol

[@wayward4657]

A proud dad and Natsuki is his obsessed son

[@Astralwolf23]

Awww haha brilliant xD

[@archmaiden]

Lmao

[@auroranix4162]

"call me daddy ;)" Chris plz make that ur merch...

[@ayojo7458]

Thinking about how Natsuki got to meet HYDE because he decided to talk to a random foreigner years ago :')

[@BeastMode-tr8nf]

Hahahaha, YES, maybe its destiny.

[@daxterquiny]

+

[@cherryberry8719]

Story of a lifetime

[@alexkwps]

Like a magic

[@miru2583]

@@alexkwps life is a *baloon*

[@sorathetroll]

Wow, hyde is literally the most popular singer in Japan I think and you met him!?!?!? I'm legit mind blown and this is just way beyond my expectation!!

[@gamersxpro1234]

Sora The Troll JEALOUSY

[@Mattarii]

Lol

[@m.s5f]

omg its sora

[@qwertxzy]

SILENT JEALOUSY

[@GSE1916]

Collaboration pls

[@catvibe]

People are commenting how Hyde has aged.. he’s 50, he’s allowed to look old.. I still think he looks great, so energetic and productive.. a whole new album (in english), new songs, a week long performances.. how many 50-year-old rockstar can achieve those?

[@catvibe]

By the way I still remembered the time I fell in love with Hyde in the mv stay away many years ago.. he looked like a high school boy when he’s already 30yro.

[@barrymckockinner9292]

He looks good for 50

[@sleepybear1065]

He’s one good looking 54 year old. People are just bitter sometimes

[@user-bv7mk8id5t]

He’s in his 50’s!? 😮 Well to me he’s aging well then.

[@GoddessOfWhim2003]

in 2023, he's 54 and still all manners of sexy

[@Alecsandor]

Chris, did you conduct a serious interview with an extremely famous musician while wearing....cargo shorts?

[@AbroadinJapan]

AND I'D DO IT AGAIN

[@gluv208]

Lol!!!!!

[@TubbysWorld4413]

@@AbroadinJapan I thought it was a serious project.😂

[@imolaunger]

I was thinking the same thing 😂 I hate cargo shorts with a passion. But on Chris... they kind of grew on me.

[@YaaayaaaYEET]

Unbelievable

[@ryuuichiwu3662]

I felt so happy for Natsuki when he finally met Hyde This is such a nice thing you and Hyde did for him, Chris

[@AbroadinJapan]

Still waiting on my coffee though.

[@ryuuichiwu3662]

Abroad in Japan I’m sure he’ll get you that coffee soon 😔

[@aSmelly1]

@@AbroadinJapan well, you've got that photo on your side, so you can do some blackmail/bargaining. I'd say youre in a good spot.

[@Bitscreed]

@@AbroadinJapan Did you at least get those potato chips he also promised?

[@damaryscesani7743]

@@AbroadinJapan 😂😂 Lol!! I would have given you more for that honor.

[@Kinochan28]

Hyde: What´s your name? I´m Natsuki Hyde: Nacchan Natsuki * *dies* *

[@kylefenrick7842]

kinomoto chan I got a happy tear when they met. I could feel the happiness through the video

[@otakuhime3119]

21:39

[@こるか-x6c]

Nacchan is adorable♡lol

[@TessCheung]

Haha HYDE is funny person

[@ひぃる-n1e]

HYDE is cute(*^^*)

[@Usapyon_0719]

HYDE 様！５０歳にしてもホンマに顔が変わらないよね🥰1991年ラルクアンシエル活動開始からずっとファンで、話す声を聴くだけでドキドキします。これからも応援するから、頑張って下さい！

[@oyano]

While traveling in Kyoto, I saw Hyde and his friends just walking around and I freaked out thinking whether I should walk up to him since everyone else seemed to respect his space. I decided to use the once in a lifetime opportunity to ask for pictures and an autograph. Amazingly nice guy really, and when I told him my name he heard "Akina" (it's Athena) and I rolled with it, because it's HYDE. So happy to see him still active and awesome!

[@Rose-ko4op]

Lucky☺️

[@IskandarTheWack]

Did you change your name?

[@sammiechuu]

Not that it matters, but "Akin na" in Filipino means "(It's/You're) mine now." :D

[@IskandarTheWack]

@Omega Sake Homie, don't kink shame just cuz you're vanila asf.

[@triririt7944]

Dude, i think you just spent your whole life's luck 😂

[@420bakersarmy]

Hyde is lucky to get to pose with an international celebrity like Natsuki

[@jbiliHacker]

hahaha

[@RealLilVodka]

That’s what I was thinking 😂

[@DefinitelyNotBender]

You're delusional

[@Boasill]

@@DefinitelyNotBender And you don't understand humour

[@DefinitelyNotBender]

@@Boasill nothing here was humorous.

[@fry8h]

A man who dreamed about being a manga artist is now becoming the character from the manga itself. What a cool way of life.

[@embrace7052]

ikr what a turn of events

[@thelemonddropskid5445]

He looks like my grandma. Creepy

[@SeaSerpentLevi]

@@thelemonddropskid5445 can you granma give me an altograph and i can sell it as if it was hyde's tho

[@inaminute1826]

@@SeaSerpentLevi giga Chad big brain hours sigma grind set 👆 reb pilled. Based.

[@Blueboi1108]

@@thelemonddropskid5445 he's like 50

[@erikhendrickson59]

One thing I've learned by reading LOTS of musician biographies is that many of these mega-famous music acts we see are actually extremely shy and introverted in their personal life, with their on-stage persona acting as a sort of release valve for all the things they're too shy to do in their normal life.

[@higoodbye7545]

I've been playing in bands since forever, and it's true and funny that the most quiet and introverted guys can get up on stage and absolutely shred a guitar and get lost in the music like it's second nature

[@barrymckockinner9292]

Autism

[@insanecamel986]

Hyde, 50 years old: climbing speakers, baseball batting bottles Me, 30: struggling to get out of bed everyday

[@TravelingWithKiwi]

What's wrong with you? Why are you talking about me -_-

[@tyomies6168]

Its called exercise. I highly recommend it.

[@insanecamel986]

@rally vincent during recording i mean

[@elifinrenklidunyas8507]

Funfact: im 15 and same with you

[@insanecamel986]

@@elifinrenklidunyas8507 we're fragile buddies.

[@partysuvius]

Hyde’s makeup artist is insanely good. Makes him look like he’s still in his 20s when he performs.

[@lamoskgr]

Honestly

[@saracecchinelli3740]

Also genes

[@supremecucumber1983]

Hyde looks like a goddess back on his 20's. He's a unique beauty.

[@jessicamills5050]

Black and Asians seem to age like a fine wine 😭

[@petergbrooks]

@@jessicamills5050 Hyde is black?

[@namidakoh1027]

Hyde’s generations of JRockers are just legendary. Hyde, Gackt, Hide, and Yoshiki. Timeless awesomeness!

[@JSinuYasha]

Yes!!!!!

[@tamaramcrae4037]

Namida Koh hide!😭😭

[@starrynightfall00]

I 100% agree!! They are legends :')

[@d.r.robinson9599]

oh yeah Gackt....

[@TenouGaby]

Legends that are all rocking my playlist.

[@siwensui]

Just watched this video 2/10/2023 - a week after The Last Rockstars (Yoshiki, Hyde, Sugizo, Miyavi)'s show in NYC! Amazing show!!! So jealous of you spent a whole week with Hyde! He's such a kind person! also I want to show you - he has 2 Tshirt sells at the concert - both has "R U FXXKIN READY?!" on it hahahaha, so it was YOU gave him the idea! and he used it! such a fun story! :)

[@herpderpington6309]

Natsuki fanboying was the most innocent thing I’ve seen all year

[@jenniferjulian4141]

I would have been fangirling big time, and be proud of it.

[@shiroiichigo]

I wish i was Natsuki

[@haliaeetus8221]

🤡 I thnk I hav 2 brain cells left afta watchin dis vid

[@icipher6730]

@@haliaeetus8221 yee

[@lordwetcardboard]

why do you have my profile pic

[@EscortaBayu]

And u didn't asked him the secret of immortality...

[@zarah_hydeist]

Damn, he forgot! =)

[@production0014]

I also really want to ask about it to him 😋

[@ひぃる-n1e]

I wanted you to ask him🤭

[@production0014]

@@ひぃる-n1e I wish I can 🥺🥺

[@JackgarPrime]

I guess that'll have to wait until he interviews Araki someday.

[@3katfox]

Okay, so, HYDE is SOOOOOO famous that I managed to find out about him and L'arc en ciel in a small farming town, in the middle of nowhere Michigan in 2004. With no cable TV, Dial up internet, and the nearest anime store over 2 hours away! His music meant everything to a weird girl in a hick town! GO HYDE!!

[@meepymoof]

I love this😂

[@Hespdow]

That's absolutely amazing

[@keylanoslokj1806]

smashing the weirdos/weebos is the easiest way

[@ZombieSlayerTakashi]

Wow then yes he will succeed in the states.

[@ssbb6942]

Small town michigan represent lolol

[@TheSolfilm]

This guy is incredible and I never heard of him before. All this energy and the guy is 53 !

[@rechiddoeggu2949]

do you good sire, watch anime? he sing the OST of GTO, DNA, Gundam Double 00, Full Metal Alchemist and so many more. Some of the good old classic anime. He's been singing OST for anime before it was cool my good sire.

[@TheSolfilm]

@@rechiddoeggu2949 Ok, I didn't know about that. I watched GTO and Full Metal Alchemist. What is DNA ?

[@librasgirl08]

I know him for more than 2 decades now, went to a concert in Berlin some years ago. Gosh, it was incredible to experience him on stage. He knows how to control an audience, to animate them. Incredible live performer and not bad as actor as well. Watch Kagen no tsuki and you will have "cape of storms" stuck in your head!

[@Mornomgir]

Reckon you never seen Bruce Dickinson.

[@tartatovsky]

@@TheSolfilm DN.Angel. Its a manga/anime about a mild mannered kid named Daisuke Niwa who awakens to an alter ego Phantom Thief named Dark Mousy (which was apparently an inherent trait in his family). It had a 26 episode anime adaptation if im not mistaken

[@danshia8564]

It's incredible how he has this "very powerful anime character" aura while on stage but back stage he's very humble and chill.

[@danielclark1859]

They're pretty much all like that.

[@scottsaville9512]

You've got it backwards. Anime characters have "very powerful musician" auras. A lot of the "cool" Japanese character designs are based on rock stars. The cast of most final fantasy games for instance.

[@m0rtez713]

"Kono powa!" - Jotaro Kujo

[@ImTheMan0fSteel]

@@scottsaville9512 I'm sorry but no... Those styles came from manga and anime. Not the other way around. Those styles have been around for decades in anime and manga. Rock music like that is relatively recent in japan. Those types of styles in manga came first.

[@Blockistium]

he has the energy of that one really cool uncle that you don't want to bother because he's got so much going on but he still makes time for you for some reason

[@jmsantos1317]

yeah, he's so cool

[@degidoga]

HYDE is a superstar that Japan is proud of. I would like to thank you for being picked up by me as a Japanese person‼

[@RaeneTheFaerie]

@jimmyjammy wimmywammy Could it be a difference in generations?

[@phosphenevision]

@jimmyjammy wimmywammy well he's famous in japan not england, if you watch anime chances are you've heard one of his songs before because he's made countless anime soundtracks.

[@powerface71]

So Japan likes old people to be their rock stars?? Strange. . .

[@RaeneTheFaerie]

​@@powerface71 That's funny, why are you acting like Western (as well as, other nations) music doesn't have any old people in the rock industry? What country are you from where rock music is in its infancy and only has 20 year olds for rock stars? Genuinely curious since English seems to be your second language.

[@RaeneTheFaerie]

@jimmyjammy wimmywammy Makes sense that you wouldn't have heard of him then. From my experience, England looks like a lot of grasslands and doesn't have as much diversity if you're not in London. You also wouldn't be exposed to Visual Kei(?) unless you had a social circle that was into anime.

[@visualdarkness]

It is surely nice for stars to meet people that doesn't freak out in their presence and rather treat them as a fellow human being. Hyde seemed really relaxed with the interviews and actually enjoying it.

[@BusyAngel9999]

Rather than his appearance or status, I'm amazed at how young and fresh his speaking voice sounds . Now that's a feat

[@megha5176]

True !

[@SharJ24]

Probably because he isn't into heavy drugs or an alcoholic like American rock stars have a reputation for.

[@magicarp79]

He seems like a humble & laid-back guy.

[@isismg4119]

As he says. Always eating candy 😁♥️

[@BusyAngel9999]

SharJ24 well j rock stars are also notorious for their alcohol and cig/tobacco abuse lol and Asia beats America in terms of both 😬

[@NyonyaRekomen]

you can tell hyde is a legit legend japanese rockstar , because you can even found grandmas came to his concert mingling with other youngsters. i also his fan since i was in a middle school. he is really different now because he getting old,but back in the day around 2000 era he is super hot! he still hot tho..

[@analeighbunny93]

For me the smile era 2004 to around season's call 2006 when its peaked. He is too damn beautiful to handle.

[@Sharon_Clawson]

Same here, I heard his song when I was middle school. And so I was hook to every since then. I’m now 33 years old and I’m still a fan of his.

[@niki_niki_niki]

Wait how old is he? It's the first time I hear about him tho he looks quite young

[@ksjdoiwfehfueu]

i’m 19 and i tot he looks super young, he’s damn hot for a 51 y/o dude.

[@itsforceboy_]

i’m watching this 4 years late, but i couldn’t stop smiling watching this (to the point where my cheeks started to hurt haha). i only just recently discovered HYDE, but the journey of listening to all his music has been so wonderful and very inspiring. as an american, i think he can definitely make it big over here. it was so nice seeing how much he appreciates overseas audience and fans and i hope he knows we appreciate him just as much. i hope everyone can discover HYDE at some point. what a legendary artist!!

[@rarearc92]

i think you wont regret to know about his band as well.. 🎉

[@UnpossiblePOG]

Anybody noticed that Natsuki's hands were shaking when he was with Hyde? Also FYI, Hyde chose Chris as youtube documentry channel because he has more international audience and on it, he can use swear words unlike BBC and other news channels.

[@stephaniem8278]

Yeah that was a smart move on Hyde's part. And yes, I noticed too.

[@DM-kv9kj]

Hyde did seem very bored and a bit annoyed by it all though.

[@Quixoticelixer009]

@@DM-kv9kj What made you realize that? I think so, too. For example when he said that natsuki has so many requests..like wow 5 minutes of his life..

[@jenniferjulian4141]

I would have been shaking too.. Probably pass out

[@Helloooooooooooooo371]

I totally understand him 😁

[@Jixxor]

I cant believe there is actually official HYDE shirt "Are you Fxxking Ready?" after this video in which Chris suggested it. Thats... more than cool.

[@SoundsOfSushi]

Chris has some clout

[@decorousdonut]

Where is it??? Edit: NVM GOT IT store.vamprose.com/product/1478/T-SHIRT Edit 2: OMG EVEN ON THIS YOGA MAT AAAAA store.vamprose.com/product/1405/YOGA-MAT

[@pinkyboy8576]

I will buy to wear it at retreat

[@anthea5040]

I want a t-shirt that says "fuckface"

[@vegitoda4738]

@@anthea5040 Didn't Eminem have something like that?

[@sevgim38]

How is it possible that Hyde still looks THIS young. He just never ages.

[@glitchedexe]

i heard from rumors that japanese people start to look old alot later than usual people for some reason, so yea... Not sure if thats really true though. But from what i saw until now, i guess its kinda true?

[@Kokuto_Cinoten]

I actually see some age, compared to when I saw first him in ready steady go mv, then again make up really helps hide some wrinks

[@gfdsa2866]

Because he's a Vamp??

[@leniss]

I think he does look his age, its just he has a modern hairstyle

[@gfdsa2866]

Well he still looks ok than most 50-year olds

[@おぐらなるみ]

HYDEさん大好きです！今年もツアー行きました！カラーを描くのは出来ないけど、カラーをイメージさせることはできるんじゃないか。泣きました😂カッコ良すぎる！！絵も大変お上手なHYDEさんですが、音楽の方が楽しい！と思ってくださったおかげで、今こうやってHYDEさんの音楽を聴くことができているとおもうと😂感謝の気持ちでいっぱい🥰ファンも自分がコントロールできる状態でないとだめ、というのもすごく貴重なお話でした！それを真剣な表情でお話されている姿もかっこいいです！！ たくさんの貴重な映像、お話、ありがとうございました😊❤

[@cyqry]

Chris meets a real life rockstar in the flesh, and the first thing he does is talk about how much he loves fried chicken? Gotta hand it to him, the man's got his priorities straight.

[@cyqry]

@@chiharu_3uqTrg Its definitely worth checking out his other videos, lots of really good content to be found.

[@robertp457]

He wants to make sure Hyde understands what kind of a man he's talking to. Any person that says "I don't like fried chicken" should be looked on with some suspicion.

[@jimmymackenporsche695]

Well he did make fried chicken his topic on his first speech contest

[@Neerepha]

Omg Hyde?!?! Hyde?!?! How the hell did you managed to do that?! You fucking amazing British KZbinr, I love you so much!! I've been loving Hyde (and Gackt) for 17 years. I understand how Natsuki feels, it would just be too surreal for me to handle.

[@AbroadinJapan]

We have a mutual connection who put us in touch!

[@T3m33p]

@@AbroadinJapan Risottoro?!

[@TurtleGamers1]

@T3m33p That scheming mastermind! He's scary for sure.

[@1337hacks]

@@T3m33p He wanted to get Chris killed because Hyde is an actual vampire disguised as a rock star

[@Dockhead]

sam? sam hyde?

[@poopsanchez6449]

I think the crazier part is that Hyde is 51 years old currently, and 50 when this was filmed. Damn man. I've been aware of Hyde for years now, and he's always looked extremely young. But I guess that age is starting to show a little bit. Dude looked 20 for 20 years.

[@production0014]

He stuck in 20 yo 😆

[@ThomasinaJefferson-ke7xs]

That plastic surgery sure didn’t help. I thought he was an old woman lol

[@poopsanchez6449]

@@ThomasinaJefferson-ke7xs Or... hyde’s just asian. Asians dont crack.

[@zakur0hako]

it's fine i just hope he will embrace his aging gracefully without forcing himself to look like 20 years old

[@denaoc]

@@ThomasinaJefferson-ke7xs which plastic surgery? 🙃🙃

[@マシュードーラン]

Been a fan of his and L’Arc since the early 2000’s! Always and forever!!! Yoshiki, Gackt, Mana so many major superstars that are celebrated around the world by those privileged enough to venture into music outside of their conservative preferences and countries

[@OfLaSoul]

I never even heard of Hyde, but god damn, those 25 mins flew by like nothing! He really does have a certain aura about him.

[@NarikoKawakami]

SAME

[@corpsechan]

Ever seen fma? He sings many of their ops

[@maulana_clan]

Ever heard of L'Arc~en~Ciel? He is the singer.

[@KimmyR3]

if you've watched anime, you've probably heard a few of their songs. (GTO, SamuraiX, Gundam, FMA - to name a few.)

[@jimjimbot]

count me in, i know Hyde is laruku vocalist. but didn't know he's still exist solo-ing until now.

[@rakh3942]

"You're suddenly speaking Japanese." Mission failed. We'll get 'em next time

[@ericshun2552]

he looks like a DEVIL MAY CRY character.

[@キレイカ]

Funny. DMC5 used his song mad qualia as the theme song.

[@lamarswain255]

they actually made a song for DMC4, its called Drink It Down

[@dandiaz19934]

OMG, I was thinking the same thing!

[@Gumby518]

Or an intense Joker.

[@shrumbus]

@@キレイカ He made it specifically for DMC 5 it wasn't just used

[@bannero]

dude i've been listening to l'arc~en~ciel lately, im so hooked with their music, i never realized they are japan's biggest rockband from 1991, i wish i knew earlier, now I really wish I could go to their concert in the future when I visit japan

[@maguigarcia8034]

Justo igual estoy yo, los conocí en abril de este año. Y sigo enganchada con su música, sólo que no tengo planes de visitar Japón y pues creo que nunca los veré en vivo. Saludos

[@megandollevoet8857]

So this is the face of the singer who sang "Ready Set Go" in Fullmetal Alchemist. My childhood questions have been answered.

[@VictorLugosi]

Magic_Megan it’s the face that’s been changed by surgery so no..

[@more7642]

@@VictorLugosi he didn't change much tho.

[@misaamane2850]

It's *Ready Steady Go

[@megandollevoet8857]

@@misaamane2850 lol yes, yes Misa. I know what it is called. I realized the mistake in the title shortly after I posted the comment. Now, go back to Death Note, Misa. Fullmetal Alchemist isn't your realm.

[@bobywaitt]

Then, you are late knowing it ✌️😁

[@timpyrules]

Im 100% convinced the only reason Chris agreed to this was to set up a meeting where Natsuki could meet Hyde

[@JaydevRaol]

😁

[@SilverBlazeX]

That's the real reason 😂

[@Helloooooooooooooo371]

Ahahahah that's a good reason 😁❤️

[@DebChan89]

😆😆😊😉👍💕

[@production0014]

I'm pretty sure because HYDE is the most popular rock star in Japan

[@sparksterable]

The best thing for Christmas, getting to see a documentary from a Japanese spy man. very nice.

[@aeriederecosplay7198]

Agreed hahaha

[@lobster5364]

Agreed hahaha

[@bradleyhardeman8644]

OH... MY... GOD! I saw HYDE live in Atlanta, GA opening for Starset, and their performance was SURREAL. THIS IS SO COOL.

[@holaburger6075]

This dude looks like the Japanese Bon Jovi.

[@Vercingetorix.Rising]

Looks way cooler than bon jovi

[@CTE-6000EagleVeryHeavyFighter]

Jon Jovi

[@Helloooooooooooooo371]

Yes, you are right 😍😍😍 both are cool, handsome but HYDE is such a precious creature 💖

[@junichiroyamashita]

He looks like the antagonist of a NTR doujin.

[@production0014]

Yeah! He is so much 💯💥💥

[@GambitPit]

I think Hyde must have enjoyed this interview, it's very different from the typical Japanese interview style that he's probably done a million times. I think you helped him out a fair deal with the ideas and book too :) he seemed genuinly excited with those

[@hastinsholikhah6101]

I think so too!

[@amerhasri1982]

*This man is 52 years old* Mad repect

[@aloysfudanshi]

*respect

[@sideside9040]

@@aloysfudanshi *repect

[@ginglee4199]

@@sideside9040 depect

[@kuroneko9327]

Whattttttttttt !!?????? My dad is 52

[@somekindofdude1130]

Halford is 70

[@minnieivey8636]

I’m a 69 year old disabled woman and I love Hyde!! I always like hearing PelleK singing Anime but Hyde is the real thing! Americans will Love Him!!🥰

[@amitasitanggang5765]

He is 51. Still feel like he's in his 30's. Immortality is real!

[@segment9007]

There are a lot immortal animals in the world, aging is not natural, it is a disease.

[@bananasaur5209]

@@segment9007 Not a lot of "animals" only bacteria and fungi.

[@segment9007]

@@bananasaur5209wrong.

[@roryharland5435]

@@bananasaur5209 Turritopsis dohrnii and rough eyed rockfish of the top of my head, both are not bacteria or fungi.

[@ORUMAITO17]

@@segment9007 salamander?

[@sasharussell786]

The fact that he is so kind is just awesome! Even though he was obviously nervous at times he was kind and respectful.

[@goldenpeninsula]

Wow Chris, how much better can it get?!? First the Fukushima documentary, then a week with Hyde... Looks like you keep topping yourself! I've seen Hyde with his other band "Vamps" at the Indigo at the O2 in London and was really gobsmacked how many Japanese fans came all the way from Japan to see him! That is Fan dedication on a whole new level!!I wished there were more interviews with him, but man, this is already superb stuff!!! Thank you so much!!

[@rumblefish9]

One ok rock?

[@tygonmaster]

@@etherdog Bugger me! Literally anything British can make (and do make) sound dirty you must admit....

[@theflyingcrud]

I actually teared up a bit when he was speaking about finding music. I'm no professional musician but had a similar experience when I realized I had found 'it'. I will play drums until I'm not physically able to. Probably saved my life, no joke.

[@artofpootan]

There's more USA fans of Hyde than he might realize

[@leeg.2684]

I first knew of him because of the film Moon Child, and then, later I attended a VAMPS concert in Seattle, WA.

[@tamaramcrae4037]

Right? I have a lot of his songs in my iPhone lmao

[@Icebearbear]

Had his songs on my ipod

[@headlyl]

My idol, Korean superstar Jaejoong idolizes and looks up to Hyde so of course I've long appreciated his amazing talents. Jaejoong has become friends now with Hyde and you can see the love and respect in his eyes when they are together. He gave Hyde an extremely costly designer bracelet of his own and when Hyde found out how much it cost he tried to give it back but Jaejoong refused, because it symbolized his great love and respect for Hyde.

[@more7642]

There's even more his russian fans since L'Arc-en-Ciel made several anime-openings back in the day. L'Arc-en-Ciel, Gackt, Dir En Grey, The Gazette are well-known here in Russia among japanese pop-culture enthusiasts.

[@ggoodd32503]

Natsuki: "By sheer chance I will be in Japan today, UN-BEH-LIEVEABLE!" XD Adorable

[@stonerdemon]

So this is what Final Fantasy characters do for a living between game releases: rockstars.

[@Mansion1of7]

Imagine a Persona style game, but it's final fantasy, and instead of being a student you're a rockstar.

[@christinafalla5762]

Haha true

[@kritsadanchaleekarnchanasr649]

Don't call him that. We don't like it. Who are you? Do you even KNOW him exactly? 彼にそれを呼ばないでください。気に入らない。あなたは誰？あなたも彼を正確に知っていますか？Original fans.

[@unh0lys0da16]

@@kritsadanchaleekarnchanasr649 It's banter / a joke it's not meant as an insult or as disrespect

[@KhronicD]

@@kritsadanchaleekarnchanasr649 I suggest not taking everything so seriously. In the end, no matter how famous a person is, they're still human. You're doing neither yourself or him any favors by making it seem like there's anything more than talent and a HELL of a lot of hard work at play. It's okay to be a fan. Don't be an obsessed fan.

[@SaraHera88]

I've been listening to him for almost 20 years now. He's a treasure.

[@RayMak]

He is so humble!!!

[@manyborn_blood]

Hyde is such an amazing person. He treats his fans really good and appreciates them.

[@cybertree8184]

why are you everywhere

[@charlesedwards2856]

I think that’s true with a lot of performers, especially rockstars. They have to be so hyped up while on-stage that they are super chill and humble when offstage. He reminds me of my personal favorite Japanese metal band, BABYMETAL. While a lot of their stuff is filtered in interviews, you do see their normal personalities come through and they are really sweet, love to laugh, and are humble. Then you put them on-stage and they are a force!

[@alicodm5120]

Why are you commenting?

[@jenniferjulian4141]

He really is💖

[@Phobiabat]

I love how hyde actively listens to him and looks right at him, shows he is interested in what chris is saying. Also he started from motley crew. I love the man

[@josh371]

Yeah as soon as he said he was a Crue fan that was instant respect from me.

[@stelliana_vkei]

The singer from Motley Crue did a cover of one of his band’s songs! Blurry eyes!

[@SakugaAsu]

@@stelliana_vkei Vince Neil did a cover of Blurry eyes, I am adding to the English Tribute Album that the English version came from as well! Vince Neil's Blurry Eyes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpCkp51ugNKnerc My English cover of another one of their popular songs, it's called Flower I believe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4bFpop7mt2YbM0

[@aginggergown6303]

Believe it or not, this is quite a rare video. An interview with Hyde

[@burnttoast4813]

Without his sunglasses on too!

[@morikawarie4674]

I have no idea why he’ve accepted the offer. Awesome!

[@femmeNikita27]

@@beatritos Or people who knew him have came across this channel and this video at random? Im in here due to the fact that I'm looking for info useful for my students who are passionate about Japan and would love to go there and learn japanese. I like his music but I had no idea that he has ever had any interview as this one.

[@femmeNikita27]

And well maybe I can add to this that I started to listen to him while living in Sweden, so... well, so much for Europeans not knowing who he is or not listening to this band ;-)

[@TheCyberloki]

@@beatritos Well for me it worked. I qam german and i watch anime all my life but never got into Hydes music. After that video right now i think i need to listen into it ^^

[@Mit2uba.]

His energy is so immaculate the way he portrays himself as an artist who is able to create “color” is beautiful he was born to be a rockstar WE LOVE HYDE!!! 🖤

[@Felice_Enellen]

Hyde: *_"But in America nobody knows who I am."_* I don't think he understands just how many people grew up watching anime late at night on Toonami, or fansubbed on their PC. Pretty much every anime fan in North America could recognize his voice within seconds.

[@reizer05]

He not boast true humble guy

[@munmunyee]

I disagree. Hyde's voice has changed from his 90s to 00s recordings. Again, Hyde is trying to branch into America solely as himself, without L'arc en Ciel. To my (limited) knowledge, Hyde doesn't have a song on his solo-artist repertoire that was an anime song.

[@winxxee1965]

@@munmunyee mad qualia was the opening song for devil may cry I think, but im not sure that counts. Maybe it was a trailer or something nevermind

[@Felice_Enellen]

@@reizer05 That's true. He is probably showing Japanese-style humility. Although I find it frustrating at times, it is a part of Japanese culture that I truly appreciate. The excessive bragging in western culture is embarrassing. Shameful, even.

[@lovelace5286]

I just saw your comment and I#m currently doing a project on Anime shaping black masculinity. Regardless of wherever your black or not I just want to know where you all first started watching anime and where do you watch it now? (please, I really need this) Also if you want to email me about your experience with anime email me at [e-mail] Thank you!!!

[@WeiRdO618]

I saw the video title: "Japan's Biggest Rock Star", and instant thought, "HYDE? ... no way it's going to be Hyde that would be crazy how on earth would Chris manage to do a video with Hyde?". I was so happy to be wrong.

[@auniquehandle]

Yeah, how the hell lol i'm curious.

[@Lahrs]

im guessing to appeal to audiences outside japan like what hyde wanted?

[@zackdreak1870]

@@Lahrs it's a very smart idea to do.

[@thebigmuffin6632]

Same! Fuck yes I am happy haha

[@StopDropandLOL]

Natsuki’s face was priceless. No idea who this guy is but if it excites Natsuki it’s good enough for me.

[@grubbybum3614]

He didn't get much time. Chris should've let Natsuki sit in on one of the interviews, and ask some questions

[@SugizoSamaLuna]

XJapan, luna sea, larc en ciel and glay are some exemple of legendary bands in Japan. Specially larc en ciel is very popular overseas with the anime fans because many of your songs has played on the great animes like fullmetal alchemist and rurouni kenshin as well.

[@codyo.2702]

Natsuki’s happiness is our happiness.

[@こるか-x6c]

He is adorable:)

[@kann0nsfyre657]

I've discovered this channel today and binge watched the shit out of it. Thank you for shedding light on Hyde, he's got another fan. And so do you mate, loving all your videos. Have a lovely Xmas dude.

[@redmm5256]

How is Hyde so elegant and humble behind the scenes?! I’m shook...

[@lizxloreley]

He's very kind, gentle and humble guy.

[@curious_ember]

Reminds me of Maria Brink from 'In this Moment'

[@simonjohnson4704]

I don’t think Hyde even realised that that was the guy that sang Life is Balloons. He must be kicking himself now...

[@proudsonofheaven]

Simon Johnson best fuckin comment mate

[@Bulbagaba992]

The Natsuki!!!

[@nathanmarineau3993]

And somehow, I love Natsuki even more.

[@cometmoon4485]

That's a great song, but you can't beat "Cycle Bicycle".

[@JUPITER11119]

What made this so impressive is that Chris never put himself below Hyde during their interviews. They were equals in every way from beginning to end. It just goes to show that confidence earns respect, even from someone as famous and accomplished as Hyde. Definitely something for me to remember.

[@systemhasfailedus841]

"Confidence earns respect" wow well said. I have to keep this in mind😊

[@JUPITER11119]

@@systemhasfailedus841 Sure does. :) Especially self-respect (and vice versa). I think it goes: Self-respect=>Confidence=>Others' respect

[@sakurakou2009]

will I dont know about the MC but hyde is rich , so I think he is just humble , some celebrities want special treatment just for being rich and famous

[@SeaSerpentLevi]

I think its also because hyde is such a nice person If it was someone else in his position it could have been different

[@stereodan7180]

Yes, I learned something from this

[@courtneyderouen]

After just discovering Hyde a few days ago, I’m floored by his vocals. He has an absolutely incredible voice! I wish him all the best in pursuing his fame here in America. If he ever toured TX, I would 1000% attend his performance. Love him! Love his style and ability to adapt, change and continue to bring newness to his music. Much respect

[@ohheyitsgrace94]

Have you checked out his band L'Arc~en~Ciel?! If you haven't, please do 😊

[@toefu6182]

Japan Concerts be like: Rock : Overwhelming womanly screams Cute Anime Songs: Overwhelming manly screams

[@Hetzerg]

The men audience in anime concert are creeps. Weebs.

[@joshua7225]

@@Hetzerg when life is tough people tend to pursue digital characters

[@carmcam1]

one of my most unforgettable moments in japan, a girl group performing in Osaka where the audience are mostly adult men, some are even dancing to the songs. I was questioning reality when i saw it.

[@dracuella]

@@carmcam1 I just love that about Japan. I saw a documentary about Japanese culture in the world outside Japan and there was a bit about how non-Japanese anime fans and their affection for anime was conceived by Americans and Japanese respectively. The video showed a guy showcasing his room which was nothing short of a shrine to a particular anime. When prompted, he reenacted the intro dance to the anime in a not too choreographed way but clearly knowing all the moves. The American reactions were all along the line of: - 18ish teen boy:"dude, wtf. Just stop already." - late twenties woman: "jesus, cringy *embarrassed laughter*" - 20-something male anime fan: "eh, basic weeb. It's guys like him that give the rest of us a bad name" - Man, mid 30s: "eternal virgin walking! *laughter*" etc. However, all of the Japanese reactions were either positive, surprised, or a bit of both: - Male, older teenager, very surprised: "Wow, he even knows the dance? He must really like this anime!" - Woman, 20s: "Really? Anime is this popular outside Japan!? I had no idea!" - Male pensioner: "Is this young man living in Japan?" *When answered no* "So how is he watching anime?" *explaining about dvds sold abroad and streaming services* "And he prefers these (anime) to American ones? Well, that makes me feel proud!" - Woman 30-something: "I know this anime, it's really cute! I like the song, too!" *proceeds to do some of the dance moves, the guy in the video was doing, too* Amazing ^____^

[@animerocks2468]

@@carmcam1 That sounds amazing though?

[@stevphiericardo2790]

What kind of madman dares to interview a legend wearing shorts

[@codyo.2702]

Stevphie Ricardo Then tells HYDE to draw him, lmfao

[@lunasea8908]

The most notorious dude, he even missed BBC live broadcast because of he did not charge his phone

[@udontknowme6731]

Even worse, CARGO shorts

[@KupoKaachan]

The legend himself, Chris! Lol

[@JasonB808]

A Brit

[@cameronharrington6813]

Keep in mind this guy went through all of his childhood thinking he was a manga artist only to discover music after graduating (presumably high school). It's never too late to find your thing. It will come for us all.

[@一皮脱いだ桜田]

Cameron Harrington thx for info

[@こるか-x6c]

HYDE talks about when he decided to become a rockstar from 9:13

[@production0014]

Yes, he did and proved as a Super Rockstar 😎✨✨

[@TessCheung]

I think HYDE has a plan to finished his dream.

[@production0014]

@@TessCheung No, Never 😭

[@TaiMizuki]

Hyde is like an angel in disguise. A sheep in wolf's clothing. Bless him. Seems like a really down to earth guy. I never heard of him before but I'm glad I came across this. Not generally my style of music but I definitely like this guy as a person.

[@StudioNama]

The best part part was watching Natsuki's genuine geek-out over someone he's a fan of! Watching people enjoy the things they love. Tis a beautiful thing.

[@spookyfish5044]

Agreed! It’s heart- warming!

[@AccountInactive]

"In America nobody knows who I am." Me: 30 remembering FMA opening theme song

[@Liquessen]

Or Spirit Dreams Inside, from the Final Fantasy movie

[@eldirtyfaygo5395]

But that's larc en ciel as a whole band. Hyde alone, I hate saying this never made a crack in the states. Don't get me wrong I love Hyde but I feel like he's new songs are way too Americanized to the point of caricature. I loved his first 3 solo albums! They were awesome but his new stuff is too engrish for me. I feel like Miyavi made a better transition. Hyde could have easily done a better transition to the states if he tone down the character and sticked to his laruku appearance.

[@AccountInactive]

@@eldirtyfaygo5395 Can't be much worse than how DeG turned out >>

[@darylchua2168]

Attack on Titan too. :3

[@mozes88]

@@eldirtyfaygo5395 Dont get me wrong, i dont know this dude, but hearing his music... Its typical Japan and will never be big in America or the EU. Offcourse there will be fans here.

[@jomontanee]

11:14 Considering Hyde/Laruku has been active since early 90's, his fans are young. It means he still manages to charm the youngsters with his music and rockstar power. 💟💞 BY THE WAY, HAPPY 51 YEARS BIRTHDAY TO HYDE. 🧡🧡💛💛 (JAN 29TH)

[@BeanMachine360]

HES 51? he doesnt look it at all

[@araaoyoutubechannel5809]

This January 29, he is 51yo.

[@WhiteFeathers669]

Almost 51, still 50 years old right now ahaha.

[@DebChan89]

😁👍💞

[@ecoria-x9113]

@@BeanMachine360 It's from his time in the band VAMPS, that damn vampire life gave him immortality :P Check out L'arc~en~Ciel too if you don't know them, he's the singer there, on top of his solo work as HYDE

[@Annapaz25]

It's funny how Hyde says that no one knows him in America. I've known him, I've been a big fan of his, for a little over 20 years now. 💙

[@SakugaAsu]

Same

[@FelicianoCookie]

Same here, ever since I first heard the English version of "Spirit Dreams Inside" back in 2001 :D

[@vandalg282]

Like most Japanese acts in music, they aren't exactly popular. You know him because you're a fan of his work, and yet if you passed famous actors or singers from other countries, you'd wouldn't even give them a second look. America is what establishes and popularizes acts.

[@defmike5580]

Same here! Dir en grey, Malice Mizer, Gackt, Buck-Tick and X Japan.

[@anglethitasol5012]

Y yo soy fan mexicana 🇲🇽 de hyde ❤

[@amnos180188]

The fact that Hyde went straight to calling Natsuki 'Nat-chan' on their first meeting XD

[@yakuza2123]

That is supposed to be disrespectful according to traditional japanese culture.

[@amnos180188]

@@yakuza2123 From what I know it's disrespectful if you use that term for people older than you esp when you just met the person.

[@stankyyboi]

honestly he probably just forgot his name and knew it started wit "nat" lol

[@Azazantei]

@@amnos180188 Yeah it only disrespectful if you said Chan to older person because technically you placing yourself higher or older than that person. I mean Hyde was 51 Years old, it was still better to use San prefix because obviously, but it was Okay? For him to use Chan.

[@snuffles7492]

i would have died if i were him

[@TheZero696]

He interviewed a celeb while dressed as if he's just out to hang out with his friends

[@codyo.2702]

Well, it sounds like they're friends now (:

[@andonbrown385]

Celebs are just humans known by a lot of humans, it's not special

[@wildcliffe4712]

Love it

[@Dassy_1]

@@andonbrown385 100 percent my high IQ friend *tips fedora*

[@cokedupcat]

@@andonbrown385 This celeb in particular has earned his way to fame hes made it his life is what many people dream of. That in itself is intimidating. Its a little different depending on which celebrity it is.

[@Cifra876]

Dear Chris, it has been a pleasure following your journey from showing the swear-words phrasebook to a teacher on a bench, to gifting it to one of Japan's most iconic stars. I am so happy for you, that through hard work and persistence, you achieved so much. I wish you an inFUCKINGcredible 2020.

[@ZPerpetua]

Natsuki has the expression of a man who’s life just peaked in that one moment when Hyde gave him a high five.

[@ar7257]

hyde is my teenage rockstar. he was reaallly famous here in Indonesia back then. I spent my emo phase with alot of Laruku's songs

[@huzaifahismail469]

L'arc en ciel was the first jrock I listen to... still my fav band

[@michaelkato8999]

huzai fah music is haram in islam - Sheikh Hakiim

[@huzaifahismail469]

@@michaelkato8999 😦😦😦

[@sir_prize_ma_the_farcar4547]

@@michaelkato8999 😂😂😂😂😂

[@VyNguyen-wy3ov]

Ha ha! Me also has my emo phases in 2008-2009 . I listened and I as know love with rock seriously. Not heavy mental but alternative rock, and new mental.

[@TribunalxWarrior]

Natsuki's present: not fitting Chris's cargo shorts: unpurchasable For everything else there is the Hyde master card

[@RayMak]

Hyde is King

[@nist_x]

Long Live The King 👑 from a humble Hydeist x ❤️

[@thorgodofblunder5928]

He kind of reminds me of Brenden Urie before his shift in style

[@jenniferjulian4141]

Hands down!

[@yohunalarukist9937]

You're right and mad when you're on a stage

[@solargomez634]

YES he is!!!!!!!

[@jamesnewman4351]

Didn't know who this guy was until i watched this . Now i listen to Hyde on a daily basis. Oh and i'm 53 as well 😊

[@Josh-cm8vp]

Wow. I can’t imagine how much confidence it must take to interview such a famous person in Japan. You made it look effortless. Good job.

[@ericgraham8150]

I thought so too.

[@MissesWitch]

I can't imagine how many fans are jealous now, You even got Hyde to draw a picture for you! But I think he really enjoyed being with you, Someone who's not really a fan but respects him and treats him like a normal human being! Must be hard with all that fame to find someone like that!

[@adamwest8711]

Shouting “are you fucking ready” to a home crowd who have no clue what he’s on about is about as metal as it gets. Pass the bat Hyde.

[@manyborn_blood]

Hyde always says this so I think they already understand. But maybe he should get those t-shirts made lol

[@production0014]

Hi 🙋 Here is if you would like to try HYDE's music kzbin.info

[@egosirius]

I like how Hyde listen in English and respond in Japanese with some English words, that's amazing

[@gaiusjuliuspleaser]

So this is basically a video of Natsuki vigorously living out his Hyde fantasy through Chris.

[@jimmathin1669]

I consider Hyde as a legend He's an inspiration to the people especially when He is still singing at age of 51. More power to you Hideto Takarai

[@kosmaslemo]

Wut This dude is 51???

[@tatiannawilliams6733]

wait hes 51?!?!? *HE LOOKS 40 HELLO GOD?* like seriously his voice still sounds young he looks like hes just started wrinkling not 2 mention his energy like im not even that lively and imma b 20 this june

[@oofoof7707]

51?!??? He looks like hes in is late 20’s or 30’s.........I COULD NEVER

[@TheKinar]

51 and still stage diving..unbeliveble

[@jto5343]

Hyde!!! America knows who you are! We love you very much! I’m an American and I’ve loved your music for over 15 years! 🖤🤘🏻

[@thanosdarkseid8695]

liar! too true legends of japan are black metal gods SABBAT longest living band of any

[@Evanthebat15]

I've been listening to Hyde-san for more than a decade now and never knew he's color-blind as well! I am also color-blind (one of the rarer ones, I can't see a lot of the primary colors) but love drawing and just like he said, that moment of realizing that you can't see color...so how do you bring color to everyone around you? For Hyde-sama it was music, for me it was writing fanfics. I just love how humble and chill he's always been, can also see why Gackt-sama and Hyde-sama are such close friends. He's def big here in America and all over the world, especially for those of us in the anime community.

[@anggieanggraeni5400]

I grew up listening to L'Arc~en~Ciel, he was my first love I've been become a fan since I was 16 y/o and now I am 35 y/o, married and have a kid already this man played important role in my life, I respect him very much I'm so happy to see he's still rocking the stage until now eventhou he's aging already I was once interviewed Hyde when he visited Indonesia, and it was become the most unforgettable moment in my life I wish him all well, even he's not young anymore but his stamina is so great Love you Hyde!

[@thatanxiousone6792]

similar here, I got to know about L'Arc~en~Ciel when I was cca 17-18 yo and I am 32 now. You can totally tell he has aged, but one could say that adds to the respect. He has been working on his career so much. And is nice to see him still going on (similar with Dir En Grey).

[@Chizuru94]

Same. But I'm 26 now and found him with about 10-12 years old also through the movie Moon Child, then his band VAMPS and Larc and the movie Kagen no Tsuki

[@EternalEris]

Same. I was a big fan of L'arc, malice mizer, dir en grey, etc etc. Downloading it through kazaa and limewire. Gackt was my crush though

[@RealLilVodka]

So loud on stage, yet so extremely soft spoken in person.

[@MrChm116]

Remember Milli Vanilli ???

[@rohankishibe8637]

面白かったー！別にHYDEのファンとかじゃなかったけど、ライブ行ってみたくなっちゃったwこの動画はもっと評価されるべき！ 全然日本語のコメントないけど見てる日本人いるのかな？？

[@denisetaylor4528]

i was lucky enough to catch the live stream from LA - The Last Rock Stars (Hyde, Sugizo, Yoshiki & Miyavi)-on veep, and the live interview afterwards.... i've had your 'I spent a week with japan's biggest rock star' flagged to watch later for a while now, so what better time to watch but now. wow, great job! Natsuki fair dinkum cracked me up! but not only a legend, what a genuinely nice guy Hyde is! this really made me smile! - so thank you!

[@NoWay23548]

Ahh, the times before Corona.

[@bettyflores7743]

Good times

[@ojc8902]

Ahh a comment from the times before Corona got even worse

[@vicomi999]

@@prvtthd401 ah yes a comment from earth time travelers before what's left of Humanity abandoned earth

[@cappycat215]

MetalUnistoned God : ahh a comment when my children were tasked with an unbelievably hard test that I brought upon them and look at where they are now.

[@cupcake9575]

@@cappycat215 ahhh a comment from when earth was still a thing

[@Arahansannihilation]

Hyde is Johnny Depp of Japan, I couldn't help but notice he has Depp's demeanor minus the Heard.

[@Hydeist1992]

True.

[@Helloooooooooooooo371]

Yes but much better than Depp.

[@DebChan89]

Yes, this is so true 💖🙃😊 HYDE THE BEST 💖

[@TessCheung]

I don't think so.HYDE has himself style.

[@kosmos150]

Have you seen his cosplay of Jack Sparrow at the Haloween concert in Japan? ;)

[@illusionofshadows204]

I've known of Hyde for almost 15 years now and Hyde has definitely been increasing his popularity in the US. I went to a show where he was the opener. Hyde jumped into the crowd and made his way pretty far in! He held my hand while he was standing face to face with me while I sang along with him! I'm pretty as sure my face looked like Natsuki's when he met him haha After that show, everyone around me was amazed by his performance and his willingness to jump into the crowd to interact with fans. He made a LOT of new fans in Denver, Colorado that night!

[@Riknos]

Wow that's an awesome experience! Just goes to show how Hyde cares about the fans with his interactions

[@aminaelkateb1147]

Aww lucky you !😭💜💜

[@GoddessOfWhim2003]

Hyde-san is so beautiful inside and out. i've been a fan since L`Arc~en~Ciel when i first saw Full Metal Alchemist and heard Ready Steady Go. in 2023 with the birthday of The Last Rockstars and the explosion of the internet/social media, i've been able to reconnect with him musically. still trying to buy his music from Japan but it's kind of hard