YOSHIKI’s new documentary “YOSHIKI: Under the Sky” has been released to critical acclaim. (photo courtesy of TCL Chinese Theatres)

Legendary Japanese musician and first-time music documentary director YOSHIKI’s cement handprints and footprints were unveiled at a special ceremony at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on Jan 9. YOSHIKI is the first Japanese artist to receive the rare honor from the Chinese Theatre since the tradition began nearly 100 years ago.

YOSHIKI was introduced by Matt Pinfield, distinguished radio host on KLOS-FM, Los Angeles’ top rock station, before his tablet was permanently placed in the TCL theatre’s forecourt at 6925 Hollywood Blvd.

YOSHIKI’s cement prints were placed directly next to those of Kobe Bryant and Jennifer Aniston, in the same area of the courtyard as Tom Hanks, Kevin Costner, Johnny Depp, Robert de Niro and Al Pacino.

“We were so excited to do this special unveiling,” Brett Fellman, TCL Chinese Theatre’s president of film and marketing said. “There was a lot of anticipation for this event from the fans who visit our theatre daily from around the world. We expect this to be one of our most popular attractions.”

Eager fans from around the globe lined up hours before sunrise to get a close view of the international superstar as he celebrated the historic event surrounded by friends and colleagues from the entertainment industry. Demand to see the legendary artist was so high that large black curtains were placed at the entrance to the forecourt to prevent crowds from disrupting traffic on Hollywood Boulevard.

YOSHIKI’s international popularity has exploded, and the musician was recently chosen by entertainment giant Sanrio to create the worldwide theme song for “Hello Kitty’s” 50th anniversary celebration this year, which will be released this coming spring.

YOSHIKI is one of just over 300 artists to be immortalized in the nearly 100-year history of the iconic Chinese Theatre to receive this prestigious honor. He was selected as “one of the most influential musicians and composers in Japanese history” and in recognition of his achievements in music, fashion, and film over decades, as well as for his continued philanthropic efforts.

YOSHIKI’s acclaimed directorial debut film “YOSHIKI: Under the Sky” will begin streaming in the U.S. through Magnolia Home Entertainment under their Magnet Label on TVOD in March and SVOD in May on Amazon Prime Video.

The TCL Chinese Theatre is located at 6925 Hollywood Blvd. For information, visit tclchinesetheatres.com.