steve aoki journey

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How Steve Aoki Is Building a Universe Beyond Music

By Charisma Madarang

Charisma Madarang

Steve Aoki has been a household name for the last two decades, but that hasn’t stopped him from perpetually experimenting — bounding from one sound to the next — and challenging how his music is consumed, understood, and memorialized.

“There’s no one doing what I’m doing,” he tells Rolling Stone when reflecting on HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix , an expansive 23-track album released Friday. The ambitious project simultaneously spans country, latin, and dance — building on Aoki’s early roots while embracing today’s appetite for genre-breaking music. Paris Hilton , Akon , Ángela Aguilar, Danna Paola, Greeicy, Galantis, JJ Lin, Hayley Kiyoko, Galantis, Timmy Trumpet, and John Martin are featured throughout the record, which dropped alongside a new music video for “ Us ,” a country-dance track featuring Ernest.

A large part of Aoki’s innovation has expanded to his storytelling beyond music. While the first installment of 2022’s punk-infused HiROQUEST: Genesis introduced the protagonist Hiro and followed his pursuit to capture magical rings and save the world, Double Helix , builds on this universe — introducing a new antagonist and with it an opportunity for Aoki to engage fans with his passion for card collecting.

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His obsession has manifested into a HiROQUEST Collectors Edition, which arrives Nov. 21, and offers fans an official CD, graphic novel, and four “Kolex” trading cards from a 12-card set. Like the new album, the novel — which Aoki wrote with former Creative Director for Marvel Comics and Eisner Award recipient Jim Kreuger — depicts the tale of Hiro’s journey through five mythological realms and showdown with his arch-nemesis, Hyro. Aoki adds that eventually, he plans to build the storyline into a television series.

“I’m really excited to tell the story. I want people to really follow me on the journey beyond the music,” say Aoki. “I want people to be part of that story early, because the story is just starting.”

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The Electrifying World of Steve Aoki

Introduction: Steve Aoki – The EDM Maestro

In the electrifying world of electronic dance music , Steve Aoki stands as a beacon of innovation and exhilarating performance. His journey from a Grammy-nominated DJ to an entrepreneurial icon and a record label pioneer has marked him as a standout figure in the music world. This article delves into the multifaceted career of Steve Aoki, exploring his musical evolution, his impact on the industry, and his role as a cultural influencer.

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Steve Aoki’s journey from Miami to the global stage is a story of passion and perseverance. Born to a Japanese wrestler and restaurateur father and a musically inclined mother, Aoki’s multicultural upbringing in Newport Beach, California, played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic sensibilities. Immersed in diverse musical influences, he developed an eclectic taste that would later define his music. This section will explore Aoki’s formative years, detailing how his early influences and experiences shaped his approach to music and performance.

The Birth of Dim Mak Records

In the pivotal year of 1996, Steve Aoki embarked on a remarkable venture, the establishment of Dim Mak Records , a label destined to become a foundational pillar in the music industry. Named in homage to his childhood hero, Bruce Lee, and his famed martial arts technique, Dim Mak emerged as a symbol of Aoki’s indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering determination. Consequently, this label has played a crucial role in launching the careers of numerous prominent artists, thereby showcasing Aoki’s exceptional ability to recognize and nurture emerging talent. In this expanded exploration, we will delve deeper into the narrative of Dim Mak, examining how it has evolved over the years and significantly, its influential role in sculpting the contemporary music landscape.

Aoki’s Signature Sound: A Fusion of Styles

Steve Aoki’s music, a vibrant and dynamic blend of electro house, dubstep, and progressive house, is characterized notably by its energetic basslines and memorable melodies. His tracks, such as the renowned “Boneless” and the emotive “Just Hold On,” have achieved international acclaim, topping charts across the globe. Furthermore, his collaborations with diverse artists like BTS and Linkin Park not only showcase but also amplify his versatility as an artist. In this section, we aim to expand upon his unique musical style. Specifically, we will discuss his most popular tracks, delve into his approach to remixes, and explore his collaborations with various artists. Additionally, we will investigate how Aoki’s sound has evolved over time, reflecting his eagerness to experiment and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of EDM.

Decoding the Iconic Tracks of Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki, a maestro in the world of electronic dance music, has gifted the music scene with an array of iconic tracks. Each song not only showcases his unique style but also cements his status as a trailblazer in the industry. In this section, we delve into some of Aoki’s most memorable and influential tracks, exploring the essence of what makes them stand out in the vast landscape of EDM.

“Delirious (Boneless)” ft. Kid Ink

Kicking off with one of Aoki’s most recognizable hits, “Delirious (Boneless)” featuring Kid Ink, is a track that truly captures the energetic essence of Aoki’s style. Released in 2014, this song combines catchy lyrics with a pulsating beat, making it an instant favorite in clubs and festivals around the world. The collaboration with Kid Ink adds a unique blend of hip-hop to the mix, showcasing Aoki’s versatility and willingness to cross genre boundaries.

“Just Hold On” with Louis Tomlinson

Transitioning to a more melodic yet equally impactful track, “Just Hold On,” created in collaboration with Louis Tomlinson of One Direction, marked a significant moment in Aoki’s career. This 2016 hit melds Aoki’s electronic beats with Tomlinson’s pop sensibilities, resulting in a heartwarming anthem about resilience and hope. The track’s widespread appeal is a testament to Aoki’s ability to connect with a diverse audience.

“Waste It On Me” ft. BTS

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Aoki teamed up with global K-pop sensation BTS for the 2018 hit “Waste It On Me.” This track stands out for its fusion of Aoki’s EDM expertise with BTS’s unique style, creating a cross-cultural musical experience. The song’s catchy melody and meaningful lyrics resonated with fans worldwide, further solidifying Aoki’s reputation as a global music influencer.

“Turbulence” with Laidback Luke ft. Lil Jon

Another notable track in Aoki’s repertoire is “Turbulence,” a collaboration with Laidback Luke featuring Lil Jon, released in 2011. This high-energy track is quintessential Aoki, blending pulsating beats with Lil Jon’s distinctive vocals. It’s a song that embodies the spirit of EDM and has become a staple in Aoki’s live performances, known for energizing crowds and creating unforgettable moments.

The Unforgettable Aoki Experience

Experiencing a Steve Aoki concert is, in essence, embarking on an extraordinary adventure. Known for his boundless energy and dynamic shows, Aoki’s live performances are nothing short of a visual and auditory spectacle. Indeed, his concerts are a dazzling array of lights and sounds, offering an immersive interaction that captivates the audience. Notably, his iconic cake-throwing antics and inflatable raft crowd-surfing are not just acts; they are vivid expressions of his larger-than-life personality. Consequently, this part of the article aims to provide a more detailed description of what it’s like to attend an Aoki performance. Specifically, we will delve into the mesmerizing visual effects, elaborate stage design, and the unique, engaging ways he connects with his audience, creating an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Icon: Beyond Music

Steve Aoki’s influence, remarkably, extends well beyond the confines of music. Through his philanthropic work with the Aoki Foundation and his vocal advocacy for various social causes, he demonstrates a deep commitment to making a positive impact. Therefore, this section will offer a more in-depth exploration of his charitable initiatives. Moreover, we will examine his perspectives on social issues and how he effectively uses his platform to promote change and awareness. Significantly, from supporting critical brain health research to fervently advocating for inclusivity and positivity, Aoki’s off-stage endeavors are as impactful and meaningful as his music. This multifaceted approach underscores his status not just as a musical icon but as a proactive, influential figure in broader societal contexts.

Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki is more than an artist; he is a visionary who has left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond. His innovative approach, dynamic performances, and commitment to social causes have solidified his status as an icon. This final part will summarize his journey, emphasizing the lasting impact he has made on the music industry and his role as a trailblazer in the EDM world.

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Steve Aoki Discusses His Journey to Superstar DJ and New Documentary ‘I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead’

As part of the Tribeca Film Festival, I'll Sleep When I'm Dead bowed to a standing ovation at its New York premiere on April 15.

By Paul Cantor

Paul Cantor

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But to Steve’s chagrin, he does not have an especially close relationship with his pop; the elder Aoki sires seven children with three different wives, and divorces his mother in 1981. When Steve begins making waves in L.A.’s early 2000’s electro scene, he is, at least by some critics, written off as just another rich kid playing with his daddy’s money. In reality, Rocky offers help, but only in the form of hard work, hiring Steve to peel onions at the restaurant, like any other low-level employee.

Steve Aoki Marries Tiernan Cowling

In this, the film largely succeeds — using the father/son relationship as its emotional anchor. Elsewhere, it’s bolstered by a more straightforward narrative, that of Steve’s 2014 album release concert at Madison Square Garden . When the concert gets botched, the film feels like an EDM song itself, building up for the drop, before finally, the climactic finish. By the time the credits roll, it ties up rather nicely; Aoki’s life kind of a fairy tale, complete with the happy ending and all. Father would approve. 

As part of the Tribeca Film Festival, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead bowed to a standing ovation at its New York premiere last Friday (April 15). In the bowels of the palatial Beacon Theater, just minutes after capping his emotional coming-of-age documentary screening with a raucous 90-minute DJ set, Aoki spoke with Billboard about the film.   The film was so warmly embraced by tonight. It seemed emotional for you and also your family, who were on hand. Were you scared going into this?

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The film largely explores your relationship with your father, who passed away in 2008. Is there a nugget of advice he gave you that, looking back, still sticks with you today?

He wasn’t really an advice guy. He was more like, “I’m going to spoil you with life experiences when you come with me. And you have to keep your eyes open and you have to retain what you see.” Whenever we would travel, we would see so much shit. More shit than most kids would see. That was exciting. I’m sure that sunk into my conscience and made me want to do crazy shit like jump off of cliffs. My dad was crazy; I want to be just like him.

That’s interesting, because in the film, your wife talks about how you can’t sit still for more than a few hours — very Rocky Aoiki-like. 

I always have a crew around me. When I’m in the studio, I work with a team of people. Musicians, pianists, sound designers, all kinds of people. Songwriters, vocalists — all of them help with the direction. I have a direction and they help with the vision I’m going for. I’m project-oriented, so it’s not like I have so much ADD that I can’t get anything done. If that was the case, I wouldn’t be here. Before, I did everything. I remember starting with just a laptop. 

Just you and Ableton Live.

Speaking of having people around you, the movie also shines a light on the underground electro scene in Los Angeles in the early 2000s.

That period of time, it was sacred. There were no outlets. You had to bring in a camera to film stuff. There were no iPhones. There were Blackberries and shitty camera phones. But photographers, they actually meant something. It was true documentation.

Right. And now we use an Instagram filter to pretend to have a picture that looked like it was from that era. 

It’s harder to build a culture when it’s so accessible. It was small, sacred, hard to get into — not because of exclusivity, but more like once it was packed, it was already too full. But we were so consistent. And that’s something I realized — that in order to build culture in an underground way, consistency is crucial. You have to be consistent with whatever culture you’re building. Keep the integrity going. And then other artists will want to be a part of it. I mean, we couldn’t pay anyone, because we weren’t making any money. It was like $5 a head to get in. And then when me and DJ AM  started doing parties, we were already making money, so all our parties were free. Nobody had to pay. The only thing was, if you didn’t know who was playing, you couldn’t really get in. 

You had to know to know.

It was difficult to get the information. 

It was L.A. cool.

And in a way, the movie is educational; modern EDM fans, they may not really know where a lot of this stuff came from.

The difficult thing is, even with the information, they may not find value in that — knowing the source of it. That’s a bigger problem. Like, how millennials digest information, it’s so fast and so easy and so accessible, that history becomes less important. That’s why I think it’s important that people like you — people who care — constantly bring it back. Justin put the movie together the way he did, because he knew the value of it. I let him into the stories, into that space, but he was able to make it into something where it was like: hey, all you young kids out there, this is your history, this is really cool, and you should take a juicy fucking bite out of it because it’s some good shit.

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Longevity (Steve Aoki Remix)

Inside the superstar DJ's battle to stay on top of the EDM world and win the longevity game.

“IT ALWAYS fucking hurts, no matter how many times you do it,” says Steve Aoki. “Oh yeah, baby. I’m telling my brain to relax through the pain, but it’s telling me to run. Breathe, breathe, breathe.” It’s 102 degrees midafternoon on a blue-sky day in early September in Henderson, Nevada, and Aoki, the superstar DJ known for popularizing electronic dance music (EDM) in America and a budding biohacker, is hard at it, optimizing his mind and body with a workout/ice plunge/sauna trifecta. He’s about 90 seconds into a five-minute ice-bath challenge.

Prior to submerging, Aoki and Cordoza got Huberman Lab –level granular and discussed the differences between a 39 degree plunge and a 42 degree one, and a three-minute duration versus five minutes versus nine. Ice plunges are hot in the longevity-verse because of their benefits, which include a feel-good dopamine glow in the short term and a steelier grit and brighter outlook in the longer term. They may also strengthen your immune system and improve your circulation. In conversation, Aoki is self-deprecating, mostly filterless, thoughtful, and quick to drop profanity. You’d expect him to be shattered from the travel and workout, but he’s psyched to do the five-minute challenge. He decided to Instagram Live it to his 11.6 million followers . By adding a virtual audience, he’s amping up the pressure to perform, which puts him in his happy place.

The thermometer read 39 degrees—ten bags of ice will do that—as Aoki slipped in and started breathing more deeply, inhaling through his nose, out through his mouth. He gives a running commentary. He closes his eyes and is motionless as the seconds tick by. Around four minutes in, he starts shivering. But he’s past the pain, past questioning why, and is calmly accepting the moment. He dips underwater at six minutes and emerges screaming. “Ahhh, it feels like ice went up my nose and into my brain.” Whatever fatigue and jet lag Aoki was feeling are gone, and his eyes sparkle and dance. “It feels so much better than a workout, so fucking good!” he says. “That’s why I do this shit. I feel so fucking alive.”

He’s the ultimate road warrior with a fierce schedule, grinding out 250 shows per year, headlining the top festivals globally, and locking down a residency in Las Vegas, earning $40 million per year. He has been at the peak of a high-energy, youth-driven industry for almost 20 years, winning a spot on DJ Mag ’s coveted “Top 10 DJ” list for the past decade—he is number eight this year . His eighth studio album, Hiroquest: Double Helix, dropped November 17, and earlier this year, he played the closing set of Tomorrowland, the Super Bowl of EDM. “It sounds cringe,” he says, “but I was bawling my eyes out after and oozing love from every pore in my body. I felt emotionally saturated.”

On the surface, the 45-year-old Aoki doesn’t seem like the person to hang out with for insights into the promise and perils of longevity science—he has I’LL SLEEP WHEN I’M DEAD tattooed on the back of his neck. But earlier this year, Aoki took an epigenetic test popular with longevity bros to calculate his biological age, and it revealed that his pace of aging was among the best on the planet. Unlike chronological age, which progresses at the same pace for everyone, biological age, which is how fast our cells deteriorate, is individualized and somewhat malleable. Aoki ranked 22nd on the Rejuvenation Olympics scoreboard , which tracks everyone who has taken the test, alongside antiaging innovators like Ben Greenfield and tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, who created the contest and is known for his extreme longevity Blueprint protocol —think vegan diet, 111-pill supplement regimen, and strict 8:30 P.M. bedtime.

Johnson tweeted out congratulations to Aoki, and an unlikely bromance blossomed. They spent time together talking longevity protocols and tactics. Johnson admitted he was surprised to see Aoki on the leaderboard, because of his nocturnal lifestyle, but that’s the point of the Rejuvenation Olympics, to show that longevity is not one-size-fits-all. “We’re really in the earliest of days trying to figure out how to measure aging, how to slow it, and how to reverse it,” Johnson says in a Zoom interview. “There are lots of emerging patterns, and Aoki is another pattern. Of course, he’s n of 1—but that’s exciting. We don’t know yet with certitude what things work, and that’s what’s fun about this game.” Aoki, of course, offers a more fun version of the game—a game that we all have a vested interest in. “Heck, on the biohacker spectrum, if Bryan is a 10, I’m more of a 2 to 4,” says Aoki. “Sometimes I spike to a 6 or 7.” A hard-partying, sleep-deprived son of excess seems to be aging slower than most of us and upending what we think about healthy lifestyles and longevity science.

Aoki is fighting two seemingly contradictory battles, keeping his career at its peak while also optimizing his longevity—which might require slowing down. “I know I’m very lucky,” he says. “There are not many DJs doing what I do for as long as I’ve done it. The fans might want a newer face, a younger person. Many of the biggest DJs that I looked up to are gone. The culture is unforgiving. Time is unforgiving. That’s why I’m still hustling, touring, in the studio making new music. It’s like you’re swimming upstream, but you have to swim a little faster to stay ahead and push the culture.” He is dealing with a dilemma we all face: how to emphasize our good habits to compensate for the not-so-good. More existentially, can Steve Aoki live fast and die old?

ONE OF THE books in Aoki’s library is the bestseller Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity, by Peter Attia, M.D ., a physician specializing in health span. In it, Dr. Attia posits that there’s something more powerful than exercise and diet: “The most important ingredient in the whole longevity equation is the why. Why do we want to live longer? For what?” He continues by saying that a rule of thumb (he gleaned from a friend) for determining someone’s true age is to listen to them talk: If they talk about the past, about all the things that happened and that they did, they’ve gotten old. If they talk about their dreams, their aspirations, what they’re still looking forward to—they’re young.

Aoki talks incessantly about the future, his next gig, his next song, his next challenge. Dim Mak, the indie music label he founded after college at UC Santa Barbara, is going strong and has evolved into a lifestyle company with comics, television, metaverse, and clothing collaborations. Also a successful producer, he’s collaborated with everyone from Sting to Linkin Park to Snoop Dogg to BTS to Maluma. Aoki has an optimistic approach toward aging, too, which by itself can help lengthen your life by seven and a half years, according to research by Becca Levy, Ph.D., a professor of psychology and epidemiology at Yale.

His outlook is partly informed by his Japanese heritage and culture, in which older people are revered for their wisdom. “It’s a beautiful thing to respect where you are, no matter your age, and to share what you’ve endured,” he says. There are older iconic DJs he looks up to as well. He name-checks Tiësto, 54; David Guetta, 55; and Carl Cox, 61. “They’re still headlining, rocking stages, and people just love the music. It’s beyond generational, and that really inspires me. I’m grateful to the DJs that are still doing it and are years and years ahead of me.”

Aoki wears his heart on his sleeve—okay, his biceps. He even has a song called “Music Means Love Forever” that has almost 10 million streams on Spotify, and there’s no questioning his passion, his why. It’s 2:15 A.M., roughly ten hours after the ice plunge, and Aoki is shirtless again. He’s an hour into his set, bopping around, jumping, and waving his arms in the air onstage at Hakkasan at the MGM Grand. He told me he burns about 1,200 calories per two-hour gig, according to his Whoop fitness tracker, and it’s easy to see how. He’s a blur of constant movement, often climbing on a ledge to rev up the crowd with shouts of “Put your hands up!” and “Everybody fucking scream!” The 3,900-person club is jammed with a Las-Vegas-on-a-Saturday-night grab bag of bachelorette parties, birthday groups, guy-trip squads, and some EDM fans. The dance floor is a seething mass of bobbing heads and waving arms, while the big spenders dance on the sofas at the $6,000 bottle-service tables.

For the EDM uninitiated, Aoki specializes in what he calls “bouncy music,” or more formally, progressive house. The musical flow rises and falls in high-intensity intervals; Aoki plays the choruses of songs the audience will sing along to, then drops some foot-stomping, arm-pumping bass and everyone jams out. The mix of songs veers multicultural and multigenre, from K-pop to country to rock to grunge to pop to rap to reggaeton—what Aoki jokingly refers to as entertainment dance music. During one sequence, he mixes a version of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” into his own remix of BTS’s “Mic Drop” and then into his own remix of Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina.”

A few days later over Zoom, Aoki, nesting in his infrared-light bed, explains that he relishes his residency sets because there’s more art to the “free-form” DJing. He can adapt his playlist based on how a song resonates with the crowd. At huge festivals, there are often guest vocalists, so he has to stick to a “structured” playlist. “Yeah, 90 percent of the time, I’ll change the song to follow the crowd’s emotional journey. If I need to get them engaged, I’ll play what I planned for the 40th song 15th or play a familiar song or a surprising song. I make decisions seconds before I’m gonna mix into the next song. I have like two songs queued up, and I’m like, ‘No, this is the journey I wanna take them on.’ Then I can go on a whole choose-your-own adventure. Part of a good DJ is being able to adapt—and obviously that translates over into your life.”

At Hakkasan, he elevated the crowd’s emotions by shouting out a tribute to the late Avicii, whose birthday it was that night and who died by suicide in 2018, playing the artist’s hit “Levels.” Later, sensing that he needed more feels, he played a dance version of Taylor Swift’s “Love Story,” turning down the volume so you could hear the crowd singing, before a banging bass drop. “I want to get people out of their skins, to rip their shirts off and have fun,” says Aoki. He explains how he connects intimately with the crowd by scanning the dance floor and giving love via eye contact to the EDM diehards who know all the words—“an affair of the eyes”—and by throwing heart signs with his hands.

But the bigger challenges are the nondancers—“the seventh guy in the bachelor party who got dragged to see Aoki and is just standing there.” He says he often “zones in on someone who looks bored” and sees if he can get that person dancing. “If I can infiltrate his mind with beats, with bars, with melodies, if I can get him to put his hands in the air, it’s a moment when you connect and someone falls in love with the music. That gives me a lift.”

AFTER THE WHY, meaning your passion and purpose, Dr. Attia ranks daily exercise, both cardio and strength training , as the next most powerful factor in enhancing health span. The same relentless energy Aoki brings to the stage, he brings to the weight room, with a little less shimmying and arm-waving. Prior to the ice plunge, he did a strength workout with Cordoza, his training partner for the past three years. Aoki’s interest in fitness was his gateway into longevity, and it tracks back to high school—where he played football and badminton—and to his dad, who was a competitive wrestler.

Rocky Aoki, who in 1964 founded Benihana of Tokyo, a wildly popular hibachi chain that was the first of its kind in America, died from liver cancer in 2008 at age 69. Aoki idolizes his dad, who was born in Japan, was an incredibly hard worker and partier, and was both cerebral (a world champion in backgammon) and an adrenaline fiend (a powerboat racer). A year later, Aoki’s friend and mentor Adam Goldstein, the turntable wizard better known as DJ AM, died from an accidental drug overdose. The loss of his dad and then his mentor spurred Aoki to become more interested in his own wellness. He started training and recovering like a competitive athlete.

Then in 2020, his manager and very close friend Michael Theanne died from a heart attack at age 45—the age Aoki is now—making him even more health conscious. With more time at home because of the pandemic, Aoki leaned harder into longevity, gorging on content by researchers and biohackers like Dr. Attia, Gary Brecka, and David A. Sinclair, Ph.D., and interviewing futurists like Peter Diamandis, M.D., and Ray Kurzweil.

Aoki recently went to the tech-forward health start-up Fountain Life, whose motto is “We Make 100 Years Old the New 60,” to get a “total body data upload” that costs about $20,000. It included a full-body and brain MRI as well as other brain, heart, blood, genetic, and microbiome imaging and diagnostics, most of which are enhanced with AI to predict any potential problems. The team of doctors and other experts also recommended exercise, diet, and lifestyle goals. He “uploads” data from the tests annually to track changes and hopefully diagnose any issues with chronic diseases or cancer early.

He also added a hyperbaric chamber (so he can breathe pure oxygen and potentially improve his cognition, memory, and brain processing speed, as well as his sleep) and the previously mentioned infrared-light bed (believed to aid cellular repair, speed recovery from workouts, revitalize mitochondria, and maybe improve memory) to the Playhouse. Because he does all that dance cardio at night, Aoki’s home workouts emphasize strength training.

His gym is in the mid-level of the Playhouse through two soundproof doors. There are a couple weight racks, Rogue dumbbells from 15 to 100 pounds, and lots of medicine balls. Posters of Bruce Lee movies and photos of Lee line the walls. Linkin Park blasts through the speakers. Cordoza is a fitness nerd and coauthored the seminal fitness books Becoming a Supple Leopard and Glute Lab: The Art and Science of Strength and Physique Training. Their workout starts with an elaborate 15-minute warmup that is both gentle and intense. It involves foam-rolling, a mobility flow, some manual shoulder openers, a one-minute dead-hang, ultraslow pushups, goblet squats during which Aoki takes five seconds on the down (or eccentric) part of the exercise, and then rapid-fire jumping jacks and medicine-ball squat slams.

The meat of their workouts, which they do several times a week when Aoki is home, is usually six to eight exercises, prioritizing full-body moves (on this day chinups, Bulgarian split squats, and Romanian deadlifts) with “targeted accessory work” (biceps curls, bench presses, glute abduction). Usually they go for a PR on the first set of the first exercise, for a higher rep count with a lower load until perfect-form failure.

“I record all his PR loads and reps for the main lifts, and we try to beat some of them every training session,” says Cordoza. “It doesn’t always happen, but it gives us a goal. We’re working for progressive overload to build strength, but there’s also a competitive element.” During this workout, Aoki grinds out 15 chinups, which is a new PR, celebrated with a fist bump. But the DJ’s lower back is stiff, so Cordoza modifies the session to include more mobility moves, which means more time to talk, and the conversation turns to motivation.

Aoki says he’s not trying to get jacked but wants to look good, feel strong, and function at his best for as long as possible. Cordoza says Aoki “enjoys pushing himself and never backs down from a challenge.” He’s not kidding. Aoki launches into a story about how his two-month summer tours often include some kind of health challenge for the crew. One summer, he roped his squad into a 100-rep daily challenge (pushups, squats, or situps). If you didn’t do the 100 reps by a set time, you had to pay each person $1,000—roughly $14,000 a pop. Sometimes he had to stop the tour bus and do pushups at the side of the road or do reps in a restaurant to beat the deadline.

On another tour, it was a no-bread and no-fried-food challenge for two months. In 2020, during the pandemic, he did a $30,000 body-fat-percentage challenge with a friend, with the goal to get to single-digit body fat in two months. He dropped from 14.3 percent to 9.3 percent. Aoki seeks challenges that take him out of his comfort zone, things that are truly hard. It’s not about the money—the bets often go to charity, and one summer he doled out $40,000 in missed reps. Instead, he thrives on being held accountable and connecting with friends around a positive activity.

Cordoza says Aoki genuinely cares about other people’s health. “Steve interviews and befriends the smartest minds in the field and is always sharing his strategies and results,” he says. “Health is not a destination but a process—and he’s always working to refine and improve that process.” He has a series of YouTube video interviews with brain experts, started the Aoki Foundation in 2012, and has given $500,000 to help fund research on regenerative brain medicine and brain preservation. He did an ice-plunge workshop with Wim Hof’s team, studied breath practice with Laird Hamilton, and recruited Blake Aldridge, a professional diver, to give him tips on cliff jumping (because he has a recurring side quest to do ten cliff jumps into the ocean). Yeah, it’s a wild mix of different wellness modalities that Aoki mashes up into his own lifestyle. He doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, but he’s science curious and into experimenting, figuring out what works for him, and especially collaborating.

Aoki admits that his Avengers-style health-advice group doesn’t have a consensus on the best diet. Currently he’s mostly vegetarian but eats poultry and fish, although he notes that he’s anxious about mercury and microplastics. He tried Johnson’s vegan diet for a day—and says it was surprisingly filling—but found it too restrictive because he has to eat after 11:00 A.M. (You need energy to dance after midnight.) One takeaway from his playdate with Johnson was the idea of rewarding yourself in ways that are more in tune with your body and not self-destructive. “When you finish a challenge, why celebrate by eating bad food or getting drunk, doing violent things to your brain and liver? I’m trying to think about that more.” What does a healthy celebration look like? “I love my taste buds,” he says. “A perfectly seasoned piece of fish and some quality cheese.”

The workout culminates in a 100-pushups-for-time finisher. It seems like a failure, since after a fast start banging out 40 pushups, Aoki slows way down. He grunts through single reps from 80 to 100 and completes the challenge in four minutes and 35 seconds. He misses his personal best by ten seconds, resulting in him shouting lots of fucks. Later, though, Cordoza tells me Aoki actually set a PR for continuous pushups, so there was a small win.

AOKI GOES STRAIGHT from the workout to the ice plunge—he cajoles Cordoza and me into sharing in the wellness fun, too. Cordoza lasts five minutes, but it’s my first ice plunge and I tap out at four. Then it’s into his sauna. It’s at 230 degrees Fahrenheit—past the red zone on the thermometer. Aoki has dripped some juniper oil onto the rocks and keeps spooning on water, giving the air a foresty scent, but it’s face-meltingly hot. Sauna bathing provides protection against dementia and may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

The talk turns to Aoki’s bugaboo: sleep. One thing almost all longevity experts do agree on is the power of sleep—especially deep sleep, which acts as a power cleanse for your brain, sweeping away metabolic waste, ensuring superior function, and potentially delaying the onset of memory loss and dementia. He says he’s always been someone who doesn’t need a lot of it, and he struggles to stay asleep. Early in his career, he often got by on four hours or less. Sometimes much less. He shares sleep war stories, not in a humblebrag way but with regret, because he knows how important sleep is to brain health. If he DJs three nights in a row—say, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—he might only get a total of six hours.

All his health advisors and biohacker friends kept telling him that he needed more sleep. So Aoki being Aoki, he sought out an expert and connected with Matthew Walker, Ph.D., a professor of neuroscience and psychology at UC Berkeley and author of Why We Sleep. Walker works with select patients as a “sleep concierge.” When Aoki shared his sleep data from his Whoop, Apple Watch, and Oura ring, Walker was concerned, saying he’d seen such low REM duration only in people with alcohol use disorder. To optimize Aoki’s sleep schedule when he’s at home, Walker focused on the boring stuff: going to bed and waking up at the same time each day; setting an alarm for bedtime; making sure the bedroom is dark, gadget-free, and 68 degrees or lower; eliminating screen time an hour prior to bedtime; not having caffeine past the afternoon; and, in concert with Aoki’s physician, suggesting Trazadone, an antidepressant that’s often prescribed to battle insomnia because it regulates the neurotransmitter serotonin and can help people stay asleep longer.

It’s helping. Aoki says he’s logging eight to ten hours when he’s at home and recently slept the longest he has in a while, from his usual bedtime of 1:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M., but his REM numbers are still low. Walker says that stabilizing the duration of sleep is a key first step and that it shows Aoki’s brain is recovering, which is a good sign. “It’s important to point out to patients that you’re not broken,” says Walker. “Your system is perfectly capable of generating sleep, and it can do it in voluminous amounts.” He says that while working with Aoki, he uses the analogy of a producing deck in a music studio: “I’ve got all of these dials, and the first one I want to use is the one on the far left, which is the one that moves all of the other needles. That’s sleep duration. Then once I’ve got you at a healthy amount, I go to the individual dials in the middle and I start playing with them to get a symphony of non-REM and REM.” He investigates Aoki’s sleep data—doing pre-and postmortems—seeking patterns regarding better sleep on days Aoki exercises or goes in the hyperbaric chamber or the sauna, and then he adjusts his tactics.

But there’s still the problem of Aoki’s touring schedule, when he often goes to bed at 5:00 A.M. and may cross several time zones, making establishing a sleep schedule difficult. Ultimately, Aoki needs to keep sleep top of mind when he’s planning his frequency of gigs and travel. “Steve takes sleep seriously now and understands sleep’s integral importance to his health span,” Walker says. “In our culture, there’s still a lot of sleep machismo, and Steve is helping break that down and destigmatize sleep.”

Aoki is adapting: “Now it’s more about the pre-party than the after-party.” There are other tactics, too, like doing more residencies so there’s less travel and more day parties so he can get to bed on time. His goals remain to optimize his sleep schedule while staying productive, “whether it’s 100 or 250 shows a year.”

Back in the sauna, my face burns red and rivers of sweat pour into my eyes. Aoki, ever the empath, notices and says, “Hey, this is a no-hero zone. No shame if you need to get out.” We finish the interview with the door open. We’re still talking sleep, and he mentions a surprising benefit. Aoki is riffing about his creative process and how deep sleep is itself instrumental. “Often I’ll be dreaming and hear a new melody or a beat or a lyric,” he says. “When I wake up, I immediately hum it or dictate a snippet or idea into my phone. Sometimes it’s nothing, but sometimes it’s gold.”

Steve Aoki's new album HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix dropped November 17. Listen to it here.

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Counting over 4 billion music streams to his name, Steve Aoki is a true visionary. Billboard described the 2x-GRAMMY-Nominated artist/DJ/producer and Dim Mak Records founder as “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world.” As a solo artist, Aoki boasts a lauded cross-genre discography that includes 7 studio albums and collaborations with Lil Uzi Vert, Maluma, BTS, Linkin Park and Louis Tomlinson amongst others. In 1996, he established Dim Mak out of his college dorm room, a trendsetting record label, events/lifestyle company and apparel brand. It has served as a launch pad for global acts like The Chainsmokers, Bloc Party, The Bloody Beetroots, and The Kills, in addition to being the home of early releases from acts such as ZEDD and Diplo. As a nightlife impresario, Aoki’s legendary Hollywood club night Dim Mak Tuesdays hosted early performances from future superstars such as Kid Cudi, Daft Punk, Lady Gaga, and Travis Scott. A true renaissance man, Steve Aoki is also a fashion designer, author and entrepreneur. In 2012, he founded THE AOKI FOUNDATION, which primarily supports organizations in the field of brain science research with a specific focus on regenerative medicine and brain preservation. In addition, Aoki has pushed his clothing line Dim Mak Collection to new heights, both with original designs and collaborations with everyone from A Bathing Ape to the Bruce Lee estate. Aoki’s multi-faceted journey is chronicled through the Grammy-nominated Netflix documentary I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (2016) and his memoir BLUE: The Color of Noise(2019). In the summer of 2020, Aoki unveiled his Latin music imprint, Dim Mak En Fuego, continuing to break down musical and cultural boundaries ‘by any means necessary.’

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Steve Aoki, K-pop star T.O.P to fly around moon with Japanese billionaire

Japanese billionaire and space enthusiast Yusaku Maezawa on Friday released the names of eight people — including American DJ Steve Aoki and K-pop star Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T.O.P — who will join him on a commercial space flight around the moon that is planned for next year.

The trip, dubbed the “Dear Moon” project, will mark the first civilian lunar orbital mission, according to Maezawa. Space travel has long been the domain of nation states, but billionaires such as Tesla’s Elon Musk and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (who owns The Washington Post) have recently spent heavily on making such trips a reality for extremely affluent civilians.

The 10 people Maezawa picked — including two backup crew members — were selected from 1 million applicants, he said. Their seats were paid for by Maezawa, whose net worth stood at $1.7 billion as of Friday, according to Forbes .

The crew will use a reusable launch vehicle developed by SpaceX, the American company founded by Musk that has expanded civilian use of space . The ship will not land on the moon, but fly around it before returning to Earth. The trip is expected to last just under six days.

Maezawa, like Musk, has a big presence on Twitter. He holds the Guinness World Record for the most retweeted post and announced the news on the social media platform. In the January 2019 tweet, Maezawa offered to give 1 million Japanese yen, worth about $9,000 at the time, to 100 people each as an expression of thanks for “astonishing sales” at his business. People who wanted to stand a chance at winning the prize had to retweet the post and follow him.

Aoki and T.O.P are part of a multinational cast that also includes a British photographer, a Czech performer and an Indian actor. American Olympic snowboarder Kaitlyn Farrington was named among the backup crew.

NASA’s Orion spacecraft flies by the moon, 81 miles above the surface

“Life is crazy,” Aoki said in footage that depicted the moment he was told he had been selected. “I’m going to go to the … moon!”

Maezawa, who made his fortune by founding a Japanese online retailer, announced that he was heading to the moon outside Space X’s Los Angeles headquarters in 2018. He said then that he would select up to eight artists to join him on the trip, and expressed hope that the trip would lead them to create inspirational art.

On Friday, Maezawa repeated that hope as he announced the crew, saying he was “excited to see what inspiring creations they come up with in space.”

The billionaire also ran a contest seeking a “life partner” to join him on his moon trip, though Maezawa later canceled the competition.

In April, SpaceX launched its first all-private mission to the International Space Station, with its three customers paying $55 million each. Last year, Blue Origin, a SpaceX competitor owned by Bezos, flew the multibillionaire, his brother and two others, setting a record for both the oldest and youngest person to fly to space.

Maezawa himself traveled to the International Space Station last year with a cameraman and assistant, flying on a Soyuz spacecraft that launched from Kazakhstan. He posted videos of his stay in space on his YouTube channel. He played with a yo-yo , painted and flew a paper plane while away from Earth.

HiROQUEST: Book 1 Available Now

Order from these retailers.

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Journey, Steve Aoki, Keith Urban among musical lineup for Las Vegas Grand Prix opening ceremony

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A "first-of-its-kind, star-studded" entertainment lineup for the opening ceremony of the Las Vegas Grand Prix has been announced.

In a news release on Tuesday, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority announced the official lineup for the opening ceremony of the inaugural race, taking place on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Nine musical artists will kick off the weekend with special performances, including Andra Day, Bishop Briggs, J Balvin, Journey, Keith Urban, Steve Aoki, Swedish House Mafia, Thirty Seconds to Mars, and will.i.am. Alongside the musical acts, the Blue Man Group and Cirque du Soleil, two Vegas favorites, will be in attendance, as well as all 20 participating F1 drivers.

The opening ceremony will begin at 7:30 p.m. and is "expected to garner an in-person crowd of nearly 30,000 attendees," according to LVCVA. Additionally, ESPN2 is set to broadcast the ceremony nationally, and it will stream on the F1 YouTube channel globally.

“For the first-ever Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix, it was important for us to create an opening ceremony that balances the spirit of Las Vegas with the global excitement that Formula 1 and these incredible drivers bring to each host city,”   said Renee Wilm, Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. CEO.   “We are proud to be able to work with the very best in the entertainment production space to offer one of the most diverse lineups of beloved musical superstars, which will officially launch the race week festivities.”

“As the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World, it is only fitting that we kick off the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix with an incredible lineup of world-renowned music and athletic talent,” said Steve Hill, President and CEO of the LVCVA. “We are proud to partner with Formula 1 to give the fans in the audience and viewers around the world an unforgettable start to a truly momentous weekend in Las Vegas.”

On Wednesday night, the starting grid will transform into seven high-tech mobile LED stages, where each artist and accompanying dancers will perform. LVCVA states the show will be "complemented by a state-of-the-art lighting display with 1,000 lights and 100 lasers, fireworks, and a curated drone show powered by T-Mobile."

A limited number of tickets are available. To purchase tickets and view remaining options, fans can visit www.f1lasvegasgp.com or contact a sales representative via email at [email protected] .

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3 keys to your dream life (unlock success, health, & connection) | steve aoki.

learn to add the maximum value through collaboration and take your passion to the next level!

Today we dive deep into the extraordinary world of Steve Aoki, a true visionary in the realm of music and beyond. With nearly 3 billion music streams and a Guinness World Record for being the “Most Traveled Musician in a Single Calendar Year,” Aoki’s journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In this captivating conversation, you’ll discover the profound impact of collaboration on creativity and how it has been a driving force behind Steve’s remarkable music career. If you’re eager to explore more of Steve’s wisdom, consider picking up his book, “Blue: The Color of Noise.” It’s a journey you won’t want to miss!

Counting nearly 3 billion music streams to his name, Steve Aoki is a true visionary. Billboard described the 2x-GRAMMY-nominated music producer, artist, fashion designer, entrepreneur, NFT futurist and Dim Mak Records founder as “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world.” A Guinness World Record holder for the “Most Traveled Musician in a Single Calendar Year,” Aoki has performed at nearly every top festival around the world, including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, Lollapalooza, Fuji Rock Festival, Tomorrowland and Electric Daisy Carnival. In 2022, Aoki also graced recent covers of Entrepreneur Magazine, Electronic Musician, and Adweek as their “Visionary of the Year.”

"Whatever you do, don't be passive. Don't give the bare minimum. If you're going to do it you have to give as much as possible." @steveaoki  

And now let’s jump into episode 1523 of The School of Greatness!

"When you give, it's so much more powerful than receiving." @steveaoki  

Some questions i ask:.

• Collaboration seems to be a recurring theme in your career, from music to fashion to gaming. Can you discuss the power of collaboration and how it has influenced your creative process?
• You’ve been referred to as a ‘futurist.’ What does being a futurist mean to you, and how does it impact your decision-making and creative process?
• Collaboration between artists and scientists can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Can you share any memorable experiences or projects where these two worlds intersected to create something extraordinary?
• The line between science fiction and science fact is becoming increasingly blurry. How do you think artists and musicians like yourself can help bridge the gap between these two worlds and inspire innovation?
• You’ve experienced tremendous success as a musician and entrepreneur. What were some of the defining moments or challenges you faced along the way that you believe have shaped your character?

In this episode, you will learn:

• The profound impact of collaboration on creativity and how it has played a pivotal role in shaping Steve’s incredibly successful music career.
• What being a ‘futurist’ means to Steve and how this futuristic mindset influences his decision-making and creative process, offering valuable insights for your own endeavors.
• The remarkable experiences and projects where artists and scientists joined forces, unveiling the transformative potential that emerges at the intersection of these two worlds.
• How artists and musicians can bridge the gap between science fiction and science fact, inspiring innovation and fostering a deeper connection between imagination and reality.
• Insights into the defining moments and challenges faced by Steve on his journey to global success, and how these experiences have contributed to shaping his character and resilience.
• Plus much more…

Show Notes:

Transcript of this episode, music credits:.

MUSIC CREDIT

Kaibu by Killercats

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Yusaku Maezawa

ENTREPRENEUR

“I'm very thrilled to have these amazing people join me on my journey to the moon and excited to see what inspiring creations they come up with in space. ”

Official Website: https://www.yusakumaezawa.com/

Born in Chiba prefecture, Japan in 1975 (age 47), he founded the company, Start Today Ltd. (currently, ZOZO, Inc.) in 1998 and launched the online fashion mall ZOZOTOWN in 2004. The company was listed on the TSE Mothers in December 2007 (3092) and on the TSE First Section in February 2012, and its market capitalization exceeded 1 trillion yen in August 2017. In September 2019, Maezawa stepped down as CEO at the same time as the company released its capital and business alliance with Yahoo Japan Corporation. Immediately after, he established Start Today Inc., and in 2021, he started thirteen of his own businesses, including his own company's business. In December 2021, he became the first Japanese civilian to visit the ISS, spending about 12 days on board.

DJ / PRODUCER

“Since I was a little child I was dreaming of going to the moon. It's becoming more and more real every day. Still hard to believe but very excited and grateful for this amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To the moon!”

Steve Aoki was born in Miami, United States in 1977. Steve is a 2 times GRAMMY-nominated music producer, artist, fashion designer, entrepreneur, NFT futurist and philanthropist. At a very young age, Steve founded his record label Dim Mak which released influential acts like The Chainsmokers and Bloody Beetroots. Steve collaborated also with an extensive list of varied artists, including BTS, Maluma, Snoop Dogg, Linkin Park and more. He was awarded with the Guinness World Record as the “Most Travelled Musician in a Single Calendar Year” in 2012, playing over 250 shows per year with performances at every top festival around the world including Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival and Coachella. Steve is also a pioneer in the NFT world creating his own membership community A0K1VERSE, as well as a well known collector co-founding MetaZoo, a wildly successful trading card game that launched in March 2021.

TOP (Choi Seung Hyun)

“As a Korean artist, I want dearMoon to inspire the world, give people hope, and make anyone with a dream feel that anything is possible.”

TOP (Choi Seung Hyun) was born in South Korea in 1987. TOP is a South Korean rapper, multi-hyphenate musician, award-winning film actor, and avid art collector. He made his debut in 2007 as the lead rapper of the legendary K-pop group BIGBANG. As an accomplished solo artist, TOP has demonstrated his unique artistic capabilities with numerous groundbreaking music videos including <DOOM DADA> and <Turn It Up>. After BIGBANG’s new single <Still Life> in 2022, TOP is currently preparing his first ever full solo album. As an actor, TOP has starred in successful films including ‘Into the Fire’ and ‘Tazza: The Hidden Card’, as well as K-dramas including ‘I Am Sam’ and ‘Iris’, in which he played leading roles and won various accolades domestically and internationally. TOP has devoted his life to collecting art since the age of 19. In 2016, he became the first artist ever to curate an art auction in Hong Kong when he collaborated with world-renowned art auction house Sotheby’s, and was selected as one of the ‘top 50 collectors to watch’ by ARTnews. Most recently, TOP has expanded his entrepreneurial ventures with the launch of his wine brand named T’SPOT.

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY CREATIVE

“I’m doing this to remind all the creative kids out there: It doesn’t matter how you start your journey, but where you aim. We will prove that with imagination, there is no limit to your potential!”

Yemi A.D. was born in Czechoslovakia to a Czech mum and Nigerian father in 1981. Yemi is a multidisciplinary creative force, social innovator and choreographer who teaches people & organizations how to move into their creativity. He designed, choreographed and directed shows and campaigns for Apple, Google, Mercedes Benz, the VMA’s, SNL and CBS. In 2010, he founded JAD Productions, one of the leading creative production companies in Europe which has garnered multiple honors and global awards. Yemi has been dedicated to creating opportunities for disadvantaged children in Indonesia, India and Nigeria and was appointed as Czech Goodwill Ambassador by the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 2019. In 2020 he founded Moonshot Platform Inc., a U.S. based non-profit organization, whose mission is to seek and accelerate young emerging leaders and their endeavours around the world, seeking solutions to 21st Century Grand Challenges and Sustainable Development Goals focused innovations.

Rhiannon Adam

PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST

“Every day I pinch myself; it seems like an impossible dream coming true. I aim to create work that does justice to this transformative experience.”

Official Website: https://www.rhiannonadam.com/

Rhiannon Adam was born in Cvork, Ireland, in 1985. Rhiannon is a photographic artist and currently lives and works between London and the US. In 1992, her parents sold everything they owned and bought a live-aboard sailing boat, Jannes. From that point, her childhood became nomadic, moving from place to place, mainly around South America and the Caribbean. She eventually moved to London as a teenager to live her with aunt, enabling her to begin mainstream education. She later studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design and at the University of Cambridge. Rhiannon's work is centered on research-based, long-form, social documentary projects that make use of analogue photographic processes and archive materials. Her early life experiences have had a lasting influence on her work, with a focus on remote communities, the concept of utopia, and the fine line between fact and fiction. She has been shortlisted for and won numerous awards, including the Meitar Award for Excellence in Photography and was named as one of The Photographers’ Gallery’s New Talents in 2019. Her work has been published widely in the press, including Le Monde, The Telegraph, the BBC, The British Journal of Photography, Stern, Huffington Post, and the New York Times. She is the author of three books - Big Fence / Pitcairn Island (Blow Up Press, 2021), Dreamlands / Wastelands (Jane & Jeremy, 2014), and her exhaustive resource on instant photography, Polaroid: The Missing Manual (Thames & Hudson, 2017, reprinted 2022).

“Never in a million years did I think I would get the chance to fly around the moon, but I can’t wait to bring everyone with me.”

Official Website: https://everydayastronaut.com/

Tim Dodd was born in Iowa, United States in 1985. Tim is a content creator, photographer, videographer, and musician. After graduating Cedar Falls High School, he began producing videos and photos to help pay for his education. He pursued photography full time in 2008. In 2013, Tim began a photography project called “Everyday Astronaut,” featuring himself in a Russian high altitude flight suit as a whimsical wanderlusting astronaut. In 2017, he took Everyday Astronaut to YouTube where it quickly grew into a leading source for aerospace information, livestreams, and interviews. Tim’s mission is to “Bring space down to Earth for everyday people”; he specializes in digesting complex aerospace topics and making them more understandable for the average person through deeply researched and highly visual videos.

Karim Iliya

PHOTOGRAPHER

“As I document this incredible journey and share this story, I hope to grow and understand how to do my part to make things better for all life on Earth.”

Official Website: https://karimiliya.com/

Karim Iliya was born in the UK in 1990. Karim is a photographer, filmmaker, whale swimming guide based in Iceland and Hawaii. He grew up in the Middle East and Asia and developed a curiosity for the natural world. This has brought him alongside battling whales, amidst exploding volcanoes, deep within the ice worlds of the Arctic, and into many of the fascinating places that humans and animals make their home. Karim uses photography and video to show a unique perspective and uncover new underwater worlds that few have the opportunity to see. His focus is on documenting whales, birds, and other threatened species in an effort to advocate for the protection of delicate ecosystems on Earth for generations to come. Karim has worked in over 45 countries, won multiple awards, been published in National Geographic Magazine and BBC Earth, and co-founded Kogia, a non-profit media library and film team dedicated to ocean conservation. Throughout his life he has been fascinated by the hidden mysteries in our universe, from the smallest creatures and the deepest seas, to the great vastness of space.

Brendan Hall

“It’s an incredible honor to be a part of this team and help share an inside perspective of our mission.”

Official Website: http://www.brendanhall.com/

Brendan Hall was born in Connecticut, United States in 1994. Brendan is a documentary filmmaker telling stories in the natural world and beyond. His projects have brought viewers on adventures that explore the frontiers of our human spirit, from following a remote medical expedition through the Amazon rainforest to scientists unearthing wooly mammoth bones in Siberia. After graduating from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, he began his career assisting with development at the National Geographic Channel. He has since traveled the world directing projects for global non-profits and brands including National Geographic, Google, Adobe and The Nature Conservancy. He has also contributed cinematography to documentaries on Netflix and PBS including BILL NYE: SCIENCE GUY and RED HEAVEN. In his work, Brendan is committed to sharing the wonders of our planet in hopes that we may be inspired to care for it. It’s a spirit he brings to his upcoming first feature-length documentary, a tapestry of personal stories captured across 10,000 miles of the U.S. national parks.

Dev D. Joshi

“Always Be positive and Be passionate, because Miracles happen, and they happen anytime, which came in the form of dearMoon for me!”

Official Website: https://www.devjoshi.in/

Dev D. Joshi was born in India in 2000. Dev is a professional actor and social media influencer with an experience of more than 18 years in the field of Art & Entertainment. From the young age of 3, he has been part of several television series, regional cinema, music albums, stage shows and advertisements. Known for his portrayal of an Indian superhero, "Baalveer," Dev has positively influenced the masses across the world through his character, spreading the message of truth and goodness in society. Dev was honoured by the President of India with the "Bal Shakti Puraskar" (2019), the highest civilian honour in India under the age of 18. In 2020, during the pandemic, Dev established "D3 Caring Social Club," an NGO in India, for the service of poor and underprivileged people. Dev is currently working on Season 3 of his superhero franchise, "Baalveer Returns." Academically, he is currently pursuing a Master's in International Affairs and Diplomacy from the United Nations Institute of Training and Research.

Kaitlyn Farrington

SNOWBOARDER

“I can’t believe I’m a part of this amazing opportunity! Never in a million years did I think I would have the chance to fly around the moon!”

Kaitlyn Farrington was born in Hailey, Idaho in 1989. Kaitlyn grew up on a ranch in Idaho. At a young age, she fell in love with winter sports. In high school, Kaitlyn started to compete in snowboard competitions around the United States. When she was 17, she was invited to join the U.S. Snowboard Team. She won an Olympic Gold Medal at the age of 24 in snowboard halfpipe in the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games. Eight months after her victory, she was diagnosed with congenital cervical stenosis and had to retire from competitive snowboard. Kaitlyn made a deal with her doctor to become a “grounded snowboarder”. For Kaitlyn, this was a hard reality having to give up something she loved too much and redefine herself in the snowboard community. She now spends most of her time backcountry snowboarding; which she likes to call adventure snowboarding. Kaitlyn is currently taking online classes pursuing a degree in business communication.

“So excited to grasp this enormous dream of mine. On behalf of the young generation, I will do my best to inspire people through my dance.”

Official Website: https://miyudance.tokyo/

Miyu was born in Japan in 1997. Miyu is a professional dancer, choreographer, and movement practitioner. She started dancing as a child and saw success early on, winning consecutive titles, competitions and battles. When she was 19 years old, she won titles throughout Japan and Asia including Juste Debout in Paris. Miyu has spent the past decade educating, inspiring, and connecting people through dance and movement all over the world. Alongside her community efforts, Miyu is recognized as an entrepreneur who works as a model, brand ambassador, choreographer, dancer, and performer in music videos. Miyu has performed globally, but is most proud of her show at Cotton Club in Tokyo, Japan, which was sold out for several nights and was amongst one of her best performances. Miyu’s motto is “Make the Impossible Possible”. Miyu proves time and time again that as an artist, anything is possible when kindness, grace, and humility are your driving force.

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Kimora Lee Simmons Breaks Silence on Daughter Aoki’s Brief Romance With Restaurateur Vittorio Assaf

Kimora lee simmons shared she was a little embarrassed following 21-year-old daughter aoki's romance with vittorio assaf, who was 41 years her senior..

Kimora Lee Simmons  has her daughter's back.

One month after her and ex  Russell Simmons ' 21-year-old daughter  Aoki 's  brief dalliance with restaurateur Vittorio Assaf , 65, became public, the fashion designer is sharing her thoughts.

"I don't think she had an anything," Kimora said to TMZ May 10 when asked if she knew about Aoki's relationship at the time. "She's a young pretty girl, and I think, we don't think the toads we may kiss is going to be broadcasted. And I personally feel a little bit like she was set up, which is why I try to teach the girls. There's definitely an age dynamic there."

As she admitted after seeing the PDA pics of the pair on vacation, "I probably was a little bit embarrassed. But you know me, I'm definitely like, 'It is what it is, honey. Come on home, Mama's got your back. He ain't coming.'"

Romance rumors abounded when Aoki and Vittorio were spotted kissing during an April trip to the Caribbean Island of St. Bart's. 

And though neither party commented on their relationship publicly at the time, after the pictures of the two went viral—showing them kissing and Vittorio taking pictures of Aoki on the beach—the recent Harvard grad did write on her April 5 Instagram Stories, "Err, well now I know why folks were calling me."

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But as quickly as their romance blossomed, so too did it come to an end. 

Just a few days after their romantic day in St. Barts, E! News learned Aoki and Vittorio—who shares kids  Vittorio , 21, and  Valentina , 17, with ex-wife  Charlotte Bonstrom — had called it quits .

And while Kimora offered her daughter love and understanding following the romance, Aoki's father too lent his daughter support along her journey . 

"I'm not going to kick and scream about her choices," Russell told TMZ April 8 . "All I can do is offer my advice and unconditional love."

And for more celebrities who have called it quits on relationships this year, keep reading. 

Dorit & PK Kemsley

After weathering mulitple divorce rumors over the years, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star announced in May that she and PK have separated after nine years of marriage .

"To safeguard our deep friendship and maintain a harmonious environment for our children we have made the mutual and difficult decision to take some time apart and reevaluate our relationship while we prioritize our children," Dorit—who shares son  Jagger , 10, and 8-year-old daughter  Phoenix , with PK—wrote in a May 9 Instagram post.  We appreciate your love and support while we continue to do the work necessary throughout this journey."

Gerry Turner & Theresa Nist

The Golden Bachelor  couple announced their decision to divorce on April 12, three months after tying the knot in a live, televised ceremony. 

"Theresa and I have had a number of heart-to-heart conversations," Gerry said during a joint appearance on Good Morning America , "and we've looked closely at our situation, our living situation, so forth and we've come to the conclusion mutually that it's probably time for us to dissolve our marriage."

Tori Spelling & Dean McDermott

The  Beverly Hills, 90210  alum, who split from Dean in June 2023, officially filed for divorce on March 29 after nearly 18 years of marriage.

Tori—who shares kids Liam , 17, Stella , 15, Hattie , 12, Finn , 11, and Beau , 7, with Dean—requested sole physical custody and joint legal custody of their kids in her filing.

Chelsea Lazkani & Jeff Lazkani

After nearly seven years of marriage, the  Selling Sunset star filed for divorce from her husband, according to court documents obtained by  TMZ .

The real estate agent—who shares kids Maddox , 5, and Melia , 3, with Jeff—cited irreconcilable differences as the official reasoning for her filing.

Jax Taylor & Brittany Cartwright

After four years of marriage, the Vanderpump Rules alums, who share 2-year-old son Cruz , announced they have separated . 

"Yes, marriages in general are very hard and I've had a particularly rough year this past year," she shared during the Feb. 29 episode of their podcast When Reality Hits . "Jax and I are taking time apart and I made the decision to move into another home to take some space for the sake of my mental health."

Porsha Williams & Simon Guobadia

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star filed for divorce from the businessman in February after just 15 months of marriage.

Robert Irwin & Rorie Buckey

The son of late Crocodile Hunter star Steve Irwin and Heath Ledger 's niece announced their breakup on Feb. 16.

"We wanted to share that we have decided to go our separate ways," the wrote in a joint statement on Instagram Story, "but profoundly appreciate all of the time spent together and wish one another all the very best into the future."

The pair—who were first romantically linked in November 2022—added, "We wish to express gratitude and respect we have for one another as we continue our journeys on different paths." 

Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires

Multiple outlets reported Feb. 8 that Jason filed for divorce from the fellow country singer on Dec. 15, 2023.

Landon Barker & Charli D'Amelio

After more than a year and a half of dating, Travis Barker's oldest son and the TikTok star split.

"Hey everyone, I would like to let you guys know that Charli and I are no longer together," Landon wrote on his Instagram Stories in February 2024. "We broke up to focus on ourselves. We are still friends and have so much love for each other. I am incredibly grateful for the time we shared and hope you can respect our decisions. Thank you, love you all so much!"

Bobbi Althoff & Cory Althoff

After four years of marriage  The Really Good Podcast host announced that she and husband Cory are divorcing.

"As sad as I am right now, I am so thankful for the time I got to be his wife," Bobbi wrote on Instagram Feb. 7. "Our girls are so lucky to have him as a father & I am so lucky to be able to coparent with such an incredible father and person."

The document states that the former couple—who share daughters Isla , 19 months, and Luca , 3—plan to share joint custody of their children. 

Rachel Lindsay & Bryan Abasolo

Bachelor Nation started the year off with a shocking breakup. 

According to court documents obtained by E! News , the chiropractor filed for divorce from the lawyer on Jan. 2 after four years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for their split.

AJ & Rochelle McLean

Months after revealing their separation , the pair, who tied the knot in 2011, announced they were filing for divorce .

"As you all know we have been separated for over a year now," the Backstreet Boys star wrote on Instagram Jan. 1. "While we have hoped for reconciliation we have decided to officially end our marriage."

The former couple noted their main focus would be coparenting kids Elliott , 11, and Lyric , 6.

Kim Marlowe & Fabrice Morvan

According to documents obtained by People , Kim filed for divorce from the Milli Vanilli member Jan. 8.

Though details surrounding their wedding date remain unclear, Fabrice told the outlet in 2023 that he's been living in Amsterdam with partner Tessa van der Steen and their four children.

Austin & Catherine McBroom

The couple behind "The ACE Family" YouTube channel announced they broke up after nearly seven years of marriage Jan. 11.

"We have mutually agreed to a divorce but will remain a team when it comes to our kids," Austin wrote on Instagram. "We created one of the greatest stories, almost a decade together, so many memories, so many accomplishments but every book comes to end. And now we will be writing a new book as separate authors."

Sam Feher & Kory Keefer

The Summer House stars called it quites after over a year of dating, she revealed in January.

"I didn't break up with him because I don't love him, I broke up with him because he doesn't love me," Sam shared on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast. "It's the first time I've picked myself ever in the relationship."

But despite not being on the same page, she added that she and her formr costar remain on "good terms."

Deborra-Lee Furness Shares Personal Evolution After Hugh Jackman Split

Idea of you actor nicholas galitzine addresses sexuality.

Kimora Lee Simmons Breaks Silence on Daughter Aoki’s Brief Romance

Originally appeared on E! Online

Kimora Lee Simmons has her daughter's back.

One month after her and ex Russell Simmons ' 21-year-old daughter Aoki 's brief dalliance with restaurateur Vittorio Assaf , 65, became public, the fashion designer is sharing her thoughts.

"I don't think she had an anything," Kimora said to TMZ May 10 when asked if she knew about Aoki's relationship at the time. "She's a young pretty girl, and I think, we don't think the toads we may kiss is going to be broadcasted. And I personally feel a little bit like she was set up, which is why I try to teach the girls. There's definitely an age dynamic there."

As she admitted after seeing the PDA pics of the pair on vacation, "I probably was a little bit embarrassed. But you know me, I'm definitely like, 'It is what it is, honey. Come on home, Mama's got your back. He ain't coming.'"

Romance rumors abounded when Aoki and Vittorio were spotted kissing during an April trip to the Caribbean Island of St. Bart's.

Celeb Kids Who Model

And though neither party commented on their relationship publicly at the time, after the pictures of the two went viral—showing them kissing and Vittorio taking pictures of Aoki on the beach—the recent Harvard grad did write on her April 5 Instagram Stories, "Err, well now I know why folks were calling me."

But as quickly as their romance blossomed, so too did it come to an end.

Just a few days after their romantic day in St. Barts, E! News learned Aoki and Vittorio—who shares kids Vittorio , 21, and Valentina , 17, with ex-wife Charlotte Bonstrom — had called it quits .

And while Kimora offered her daughter love and understanding following the romance, Aoki's father too lent his daughter support along her journey .

"I'm not going to kick and scream about her choices," Russell told TMZ April 8 . "All I can do is offer my advice and unconditional love."

And for more celebrities who have called it quits on relationships this year, keep reading.

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Nick offerman brings laughs, songs and famous friends for climate change comedy show.

The Netflix is a Joke show, titled 'Nick Offerman and Friends vs Climate Crisis,' was held in support of the NRDC and featured Nicole Byers, Kumail Nanjiani and Mae Martin.

By Nicole Fell

Nicole Fell

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Comedian and actor Nick Offerman kicked off his Thursday night show at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre with a cheeky song about he was going to “keep it PG-13” for the night. While the sentiment didn’t last too long, the songs sure did.

The show, titled Nick Offerman and Friends vs Climate Crisis , was part of the Netflix is a Joke Fest that has taken over Los Angeles for the last week, and was put on in support of environmental non-profit Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

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One of Offerman’s biggest cheers of the night, of which there were many, was when Offerman acknowledged his wife, actress Megan Mullally. Mentioning “their wife Megan Mullally” became a running joke of the night for all the comedians.

The show’s “and friends” format allowed Offerman the chance to feature a slew of comedians and performers. Peacemaker actor Steve Agee started off the show’s stand-up sets before a song break from America’s Got Talent contestant Puddles Pity Party.

One of the highlights of the night was Atsuko Okatsuka’s set on her high school cheerleading days. The comedian lead a call and response of “Ready? OK” to which several audience members participated in. “Former cheerleaders live amongst you,” Okatsuka joked to the audience.

Drag queen Pattie Gonia also gave the audience a science lesson in support of their thesis: “Nature is Gay.” Following the lesson, the environmentalist performed a delightful drag routine of a clownfish transitioning from male to female that included Nemo references, costume changes and confetti.

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