THE DEAD P☆P STARS is a Japanese visual kei rock band formed in 1992 by ex-Kamaitachi drummer Kenzi. The group gained early attention through small club appearances and violent behavior that contributed to their menacing charisma within the independent visual kei scene. In 1997, they signed with major label VAP and released the album D.P.S. before returning to the independent music scene the following year. In 2000, they released two singles and an album, marking the departure of original guitarist Hiromi and bassist Seigo. Taiji joined as a support guitarist in 2000 right after they left, though Seigo returned the following year in 2001. Taiji and Hideto became official members in 2003. The band continued to evolve, with Ruiji joining as a permanent bassist in 2007 and Kentarou replacing Taiji in 2010. THE DEAD P☆P STARS maintained a prolific touring schedule despite frequent lineup changes, releasing notable albums such as HEART BREAK BANDITS (2000) and Star☆Ride (2005).
