Steve Aoki
Biography
Steven Hiroyuki Aoki is an American DJ, record producer, music programmer, and record executive. He was born on November 30, 1977, in Miami, Florida, but grew up in Newport Beach, California. He is the third child of Rocky Aoki and Chizuru Kobayashi. His father was a former wrestler who also founded the Benihana restaurant chain.
Career Beginnings and Dim Mak Records
Aoki attended the University of California, Santa Barbara, and graduated with two B.A. degrees, one in feminist studies and the other in sociology. In his early 20s, Aoki built his own record label, which he named Dim Mak in honor of his childhood hero, Bruce Lee. He also ran a revolutionary underground music venue out of his college apartment, which he called the Pickle Patch. By his early 20s, he had built his own record label, Dim Mak Records, and developed a roster of indie rock and dance acts.
Rise to Fame and Musical Style
Aoki's solo career took off in the late 2000s with a series of successful remixes and collaborations. His debut studio album, "Wonderland," was released in 2012 and featured guest appearances from a wide range of artists. He is known for his energetic and theatrical live performances, which often include throwing cake at fans, spraying champagne bottles, and riding inflatable rafts on the crowd. His music is characterized by its heavy drops, catchy melodies, and fusion of various genres, including electro house, dubstep, and trap.
Notable Albums and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Aoki has released several successful albums, including the "Neon Future" series, which explores themes of technology and futurism. He has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, such as Linkin Park, will.i.am, Afrojack, LMFAO, Iggy Azalea, and the Backstreet Boys. Some of his most popular tracks include "A Light That Never Comes" with Linkin Park, "Just Hold On" with Louis Tomlinson, and his remix of Kid Cudi's "Pursuit of Happiness."
Other Ventures and Philanthropy
Beyond his music career, Steve Aoki is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. He has his own clothing line and has invested in various tech companies and e-sports organizations. In 2012, he founded the Aoki Foundation, which supports organizations in the brain science and research areas with a specific focus on regenerative medicine and brain preservation. He is also a vocal advocate for animal rights and has worked with PETA.