Steven Hiroyuki Aoki (born November 30, 1977) is an American DJ and record producer, recognized as North America’s top-grossing EDM artist in 2012 by Pollstar. Known for collaborations with artists like BTS, Linkin Park, Afrojack, and Louis Tomlinson, he has also remixed tracks for stars like Kid Cudi.
His debut album Wonderland earned a Grammy nomination in 2013. In 2019, he published his memoir, Blue: The Color of Noise. Aoki founded the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, supporting global humanitarian causes, and was named one of the Most Impactful Asians in 2024.
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Steve Aoki Net Worth
Steve Aoki has a net worth of $120 million and earns $30-40 million annually. He lives with his wife in a 16,000-square-foot home in Henderson, Nevada, which he purchased for under $3 million at a 2014 auction.
The property, originally listed for $12 million, was transformed into Aoki’s Playhouse. Aoki performs 200-250 shows in active touring years. He is also an early investor in Uber and SpaceX, adding to his financial success.
Early Life
Steve Aoki was born in Miami, Florida, and raised in Newport Beach, California. He is the son of Rocky Aoki, founder of Benihana, and Chizuru Kobayashi, with siblings Kana Grace, Kevin, and half-sister Devon Aoki.
Aoki graduated from Newport Harbor High School in 1995 and earned dual B.A. degrees in women’s studies and sociology from UC Santa Barbara. While at UCSB, he organized underground concerts at The Pickle Patch and founded a chapter of the Revolutionary Anti-Imperialist League. By his early 20s, he launched his record label, Dim Mak, inspired by Bruce Lee.
Career
Steve Aoki built a large following by performing 250 shows annually, including a 2012 Deadmeat Tour across 55 cities in the U.S. and Canada.
He founded Dim Mak Records in 1996, named after Bruce Lee. Aoki has remixed songs for Jackson 5, Drake, Kanye West, and others. His albums include “Wonderland” (2012), “Neon Future” series (2014-2020), and “Steve Aoki Presents Kolony” (2017). Aoki also runs The Dim Mak Collection and hosts the YouTube show “The Neon Future Dinner Series”, featuring celebrity guests.
Personal Life
Steve Aoki was engaged to Australian model Tiernan Cowling in 2010, marrying in Maui in 2015. They split in 2018 due to Aoki’s demanding tour schedule.
Aoki’s half-sister is actress and model Devon Aoki, and Yumi Nu, a model and singer, is his niece. In 2022, Aoki was chosen for the dearMoon lunar spaceflight mission, which was canceled in 2024. Aoki also signed up for cryopreservation, discussing it in a 2022 interview with Peter Diamandis.
Why is Steve Aoki so famous?
Steve Aoki is famous for his dynamic presence in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. Known for his high-energy performances, Aoki has built a massive following globally. His collaborations with renowned artists across genres, such as Linkin Park, Lil Jon, and BTS, have further cemented his status. Additionally, Aoki’s influence extends beyond music, with investments in companies like Uber and SpaceX, as well as his fashion line and charity work. His electrifying performances and entrepreneurial spirit have made him a household name.
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Conclusion
Steve Aoki is a man whose life beats to the rhythm of his high-energy tracks. He has created a world where music, art, and business intersect, giving back to society through his foundation. As an artist, his canvas is vast and varied, but each stroke he makes is vibrant, leaving a mark that resonates across industries and communities.
FAQ about Steve Aoki
- What kind of music does Steve Aoki produce?
- Steve Aoki is known for electro-house music but has produced and played a wide range of genres, including various forms of electronic dance music.
- Has Steve Aoki won any awards for his music?
- Yes, Aoki has received several awards and nominations, including Grammy nominations for Best Dance/Electronica Album.
- Does Steve Aoki have any other businesses besides his music career?
- Apart from music, Aoki is an entrepreneur with his clothing line, Dim Mak Collection, and investments in various sectors.
- What inspired the name ‘Dim Mak Records’?
- ‘Dim Mak’ references Bruce Lee’s “death touch,” a nod to Aoki’s childhood hero and his impactful approach to music and business.
- How does Steve Aoki incorporate his philanthropic work into his music career?
- Aoki integrates philanthropy with his music by donating portions of his concert revenues to charities and raising awareness through his foundation and social platforms.
