Q&A: Why is mega DJ Steve Aoki so big on Japan?

DJ superstar Steve Aoki knows a few things about travel. As one of  the world’s most well-traveled artists, he tours dozens of countries each year, and loves to explore new places and cultures. But none hold more fascination than his favorite city of Tokyo. As a first generation Japanese-American  who grew up in Newport Beach, California, Steve enjoys connecting with all aspects of Japanese culture.

Now, travelers can directly connect to Steve’s Japanese perspective with the playlists he’s created for All Nippon Airways. As Japan’s largest airline, ANA immerses passengers in all aspects of Japanese culture, including music. Read on to discover just how the DJ curates music to embody a culture.

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How did you develop the playlists for ANA?
It was like doing research in a familiar place. Certain songs, I already liked and certain artists, I already followed. I wanted to give it a scope, so it pushed me to go out and explore beyond what I knew. A lot of people fly into Japan and a lot of people don’t know these songs. I’m a gateway into new sounds and new music.

You crafted five playlists on Spotify for ANA; how do they each represent Japan?
I wanted a wide scope of pop, underground, commercial and the next big thing so I mixed it up. For Touchdown to Tokyo, the songs are relevant for someone from Japan. It’s what the cool kids listen to. That playlist is more of what it’s like to be a local. Cruising Altitude is very much what the title says. It’s a chill vibe  for flying and listening to Japanese artists. Historically Hot  is a collection of hits from Japan and the U.S. from the past two years. It’s the pop culture side of the country. Japan’s Hottest Hits features a couple of variations of the hits and Asia Awaits is an insider’s playlist. It’s how it feels to fly into Japan; it’s intro 101 to Japan. I had such a fun time creating these playlists. As a kid, making mix tapes was my favorite thing to do. These were unique because I had to research and go out and talk to people.

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How would you define Japanese culture?
I define Japanese culture from my experience growing up under my mom, who was very traditional with food and culture. I grew up in a very white, conservative, coastal city and there was no Asian representation. I had to find my roots through my mom. Later in life, I became more grateful for where I came from. Tokyo is my favorite city in the whole world; it’s amazing. There is no crime, people have their houses unlocked. Tradition is strong and everyone is so kind and generous. Also, there’s order everywhere: They line up at the subway. The culture is very respectful; they take it seriously. ANA Experience Class gives a similar feeling. It exudes Japanese hospitality and respect; it’s how they serve you and treat you. When you’re walking around the city, there’s so much beauty, culture and history. Japan is known for its specialty in every aspect of life. If you like chicken skewers, you go to a restaurant and all they do is make chicken skewers and it’s the best. It’s the same with ramen. People spend their lives perfecting something.

What’s Your favorite place in Tokyo?
I spend a lot of time in Harajuku. All of the pieces of my fashion line [Dim Mak debuted in the U.S. during New York Fashion Week] are made in Japan and I made friends with a lot of really cool designers with shops in Harajuku. I just shop for clothes, hang out and learn from them and get inspired from the amazing craftsmanship.

Why do you think travel is important?
Travel is important because it’s one thing to only know your own surroundings. When you experience different surroundings, it opens you up. You meet different people, eat different food, you see how other people live their lives. You find so much inspiration. I’m grateful to travel the world and experience so much.

Tagged: Asia, Japan