It’s tough to talk about EDM without mentioning Steve Aoki.
Although the American musician and record producer founded his own label, Dim Mak Records, in 1996, he actually released his debut mix album, Pillowface and His Airplane Chronicles, in 2008. In just seven short years, Aoki has made a huge impact on the EDM industry.
The long, dark haired DJ was nominated in 2013 for the Grammy for Best Dance/Electronica Album and won the 2008 Billboard Award for Best Mix Album of the Year. His three studio albums, including his 2015 release, Neon Future II, have all broken the top 10 in the Dance/Electronic Album charts in the United States. His second studio album, Neon Future I, even reached No. 1 after its release in 2014.
A key aspect of Aoki’s success has been his collaborations with artists from virtually every genre including will.i.am, Afrojack, Iggy Azalea, LMFAO and Linkin Park. Additionally, Aoki has done inventive and memorable remixes of artists ranging from Drake to The Killers and from Bloc Party to Robin Thicke.
Now he is coming back to Livewire, where he performed their first sold out show ever in February 2015. This show, presented by Live 101.5, will surely be as exciting as his reputation promises. Known for his high-energy show, which he almost always throws cake (Yes, sugary, frosted, delicious cake.) into the crowd, Aoki is one EDM star you definitely don’t want to miss.
Best Night Ever with Steve Aoki, Livewire, 7320 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale, live1015phoenix.com, Thursday, November 12, 9 p.m.