Alok
Biography
Alok Achkar Peres Petrillo, known professionally as Alok, is a Brazilian DJ and record producer who has become one of the most prominent figures in the global electronic music scene. He was born on August 26, 1991, in Goiânia, Brazil, to parents who were pioneers of the psytrance genre in the country, founding the Universo Paralello festival. His name, which means "light" in Sanskrit, was suggested by the spiritual guru Osho during a trip his parents took to India.
Career Beginnings
Alok's career began at the age of 12, alongside his fraternal twin brother Bhaskar Petrillo. Influenced by their parents, they initially focused on psytrance, performing together under the name Logica. At 19, Alok decided to pursue a solo career, shifting his focus towards house music. He is credited with pioneering "Brazilian Bass," a subgenre that blends elements of house and techno with a distinct Brazilian flavor.
Rise to International Fame
Alok's international breakthrough came in 2016 with the release of his single "Hear Me Now," a collaboration with Bruno Martini and Zeeba. The track became a massive viral hit, accumulating hundreds of millions of streams and charting in numerous countries. This success propelled him into the global spotlight and established him as a leading artist in electronic dance music. Following "Hear Me Now," he released a string of successful tracks, including "Never Let Me Go" and "Big Jet Plane."
Musical Style and Achievements
Alok's music is characterized by its mix of house, EDM, deep house, and future house, with his "Brazilian Bass" sound being a key identifier. He has collaborated with a wide array of international artists, including Jason Derulo, John Legend, Tove Lo, and The Rolling Stones. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including being named "Best DJ in Brazil" by House Mag in 2014 and 2015. He has consistently ranked among the top DJs in the world in DJ Mag's annual poll, reaching the 4th position.
Record Label and Other Ventures
In 2019, Alok founded his own record label, Controversia, in partnership with Spinnin' Records, to promote Brazilian bass music. Beyond music, Alok is also a notable figure in the gaming world, having become a character in the popular game "Free Fire." He is recognized for his significant social media presence, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and Spotify.
Philanthropy
Alok is also known for his philanthropic work. He founded the Alok Institute, which supports social and environmental projects in Brazil and Africa, having donated millions to these causes. He has also been involved with the United Nations' Global Compact in a partnership focused on climate change and sustainability. He is an ambassador for the charity organization Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras, which aids vulnerable communities.