A genuine megastar in EDM, Steve Aoki is revered as one of the most spectacular performers and producers in the world. The GRAMMY nominee and multi-platinum hitmaker has been a big room mainstay for nearly 20 years, which speaks to his perennial relevance as an artist in an industry that can otherwise be fickle. From his origins as the founder of renowned label Dim Mak Records, to his later collaborations with icons like will.i.am and Linkin Park - this high-voltage madman seems to have the Midas touch.
On Saturday, 12 April, the Guinness World Record holder for "most traveled musician" makes his grand return to our shores as part of MARQUEE Singapore's massive anniversary celebrations. But before chaos erupts at the Marina Bay Sands megaclub, we caught up with the busy electronic music luminary during his downtime to talk about his impending fatherhood, songwriting evolution, recent work, dream collaborations, kinship with members of BTS, the joys of playing chess, and much more!
Hi Steve! You kicked off 2025 in a big way with a massive collaboration with David Guetta, Swae Lee and the late PnB Rock. How did ‘My Life’ come about?
David Guetta and I had been wanting to team up again since our last collab, and bringing in Swae Lee and PnB Rock took it to the next level. Swae brought his melodic touch, and PnB’s vocals added real emotion.
It was about creating something that blended dance and hip-hop while honoring PnB’s legacy. Everything just clicked creatively, and I’m proud of how it turned out.
You followed that up with another banger with Trippie Redd, Jessica Baio and KABU. Could you tell us about the creative process behind ‘Radio’?
'Radio' was all about blending different vibes—Trippie Redd brought that raw emotion, Jessica Baio’s vocals added a beautiful contrast, and KABU helped tie it all together with a unique edge. It was a true team effort, and I had a blast bringing all our styles into one track.
You have worked with a diverse range of artists recently and over the years. Is there anyone that you’ve always wanted to collaborate with but haven’t yet?
Yeah, there are definitely a few artists still on my dream list. I’ve always wanted to work with The Weeknd—his voice and vibe are on another level, and I think we could create something really special. Rosalía is another one—her fusion of traditional and modern sounds is super inspiring.
I’m all about pushing boundaries and mixing worlds, so I’m always open to unexpected collabs. It’s just about finding the right moment and the right track to make it happen."
You’ve been a prolific producer for two decades now. How would you say your production approach/style has changed in that time?
It’s definitely evolved a lot over the years. When I started out, it was all about raw energy—fast, loud, high-intensity tracks. I still love that vibe, but now I focus more on dynamics, texture, and emotion in the production. I’ve learned how to leave space in a track, to let vocals or melodies breathe.
Working with so many different artists across genres has also pushed me to experiment and grow. I’m always adapting, but the core is still the same: making music that connects with people and brings big energy to the stage.
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Recently, you gave a lovely birthday shoutout to BTS’ SUGA during your performance in Puerto Rico. We’re assuming your relationship with him and BTS dates back to your remix of ‘MIC Drop’. Do you guys still keep in touch?
Yeah, that moment in Puerto Rico felt really special. My connection with BTS definitely started with the 'MIC Drop' remix, and it’s grown from there—we’ve worked on a few tracks together, and each one has been a great experience.
I still keep in touch with the guys when I can. SUGA’s super talented and down to earth, so shouting him out on his birthday was just my way of showing love and respect. Once you collaborate at that level, the bond sticks.
You recently posted pictures of yourself playing chess with boxer and social media celebrity Jake Paul. Are you an avid chess player? And who’s the better chess player, you or Jake?
Yeah, I’ve always been into chess—it’s such a great mental workout and a cool way to unplug from the chaos of touring and producing. I wouldn’t say I’m a grandmaster or anything, but I definitely enjoy the strategy side of it.
As for who’s better... let’s just say it was a competitive game! Jake surprised me—he’s got some solid moves. But if we had a rematch, I’d be ready.
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We’ve heard that you’re expecting your first child with your wonderful wife Sasha! Congratulations! Who came up with the idea to do a gender reveal via cake smash?
Thank you! We’re beyond excited—it’s such a special time for us. The cake smash idea was totally on brand, right? I mean, I’ve been throwing cakes at crowds for years, so doing a gender reveal that way just felt like the perfect Aoki twist.
Sasha and I both loved the idea—it was fun, a little wild, and a moment we’ll never forget. Definitely one of the most meaningful cakes I’ve ever launched!
How do you think fatherhood might change you?
I think fatherhood is going to shift everything—in the best way. My life has always been about movement, touring, creating nonstop, but becoming a dad is going to bring a whole new perspective. It’s already making me think more about balance, legacy, and what kind of example I want to set.
I’m sure I’ll still bring the energy, but there’ll be a deeper purpose behind everything I do. I’m excited for that growth—it’s a new kind of adventure.
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Your upcoming show will not be your first time at MARQUEE Singapore. What are your memories of your previous sets at the club?
MARQUEE Singapore is always next-level. The energy in that club is unreal—the lights, the visuals, the crowd, it all just hits different. I remember one of my last sets there, the crowd was nonstop from start to finish. Everyone was locked in, singing, jumping, just fully in the moment.
It’s one of those venues where you can really connect with the fans and feed off their energy. Every time I play there, it feels like a homecoming party. I’m pumped to be back!
What can we expect from your upcoming show at MARQUEE Singapore’s big anniversary party?
You can expect pure chaos—in the best way! MARQUEE Singapore knows how to throw a party, and for their anniversary, I’m bringing everything I’ve got. Big drops, high energy, maybe even a few surprises.
I’ve got some new music I’m excited to test out live. It’s going to be loud, wild, and unforgettable—exactly what a celebration like this deserves."
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Get tickets for Steve Aoki's upcoming show at MARQUEE Singapore on Saturday, 12 April here.
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