Steve Aoki
6/22/20261 hr 47 min
Steve Aoki (Wonderland, Dim Mak, and Neon Future) is a Grammy-nominated DJ, producer, and record label founder. Steve joins Armchair Expert to discuss the larger-than-life legacy of his Benihana-founder father Rocky Aoki, growing up a skater kid in Newport Beach, and finding belonging in the straight-edge hardcore punk scene. Steve and Dax talk about launching Dim Mak out of living room shows, transitioning into electronic music through DJing and remixes, and why he still regrets turning down the chance to appear in Tropic Thunder. Steve explains why DIY culture makes creativity feel possible, how competing for his father’s approval shaped his ambition, and why the brain, longevity, and being present as a new dad matters most to him now.
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Clips
Transcript preview
First 90 secondsDax Shepard· Host0:00
Welcome, welcome, welcome to Armchair Expert. I'm Dax Shepard, and I'm joined by Monica Lily Padman.
Monica Padman· Host0:05
Hello.
Dax Shepard· Host0:05
Today we have one of the biggest DJs to ever live.
Monica Padman· Host0:09
Yeah.
Dax Shepard· Host0:09
Steve Aoki. He is a Grammy-nominated DJ and record producer. His albums are Neon Future, Wonderland, Kolony with a K. [laughs] Like Krispy Kremes.
Monica Padman· Host0:19
That's right.
Dax Shepard· Host0:20
Quantum Beats. Cool. And, uh, he's celebrating, as he should, the 30th anniversary of his record label, Dim Mak.
Monica Padman· Host0:29
Yes.
Dax Shepard· Host0:30
And guys, if you're like me and you think, "Well, I'm not terribly interested in DJing," it doesn't matter. Steve is such a fascinating guy.
Monica Padman· Host0:38
What an incredible story he has.
Dax Shepard· Host0:41
Yes.
Monica Padman· Host0:41
Work ethic. The whole thing is just a fun ride.
Dax Shepard· Host0:44
Legendary father.
Monica Padman· Host0:45
Yeah.
Dax Shepard· Host0:46
Oh, this was such a good episode. Um, I really loved him. I think you're going to too. Please enjoy Steve Aoki. We are supported by Quince. Every summer, I realize I become a real creature of habit. I end up reaching for the same few things over and over.
Monica Padman· Host1:01
Totally. You figure out what's comfortable for you, and suddenly that's just your entire personality.
Dax Shepard· Host1:05
Right, because I want things that are lighter and breathable and easy, but still feel put together, which is why I keep coming back to Quince. They make really high-quality essentials that feel elevated without feeling fussy. Think breathable linen and soft organic cotton. Great basics without the luxury markup.
Monica Padman· Host1:23
I know. I feel like a broken record, 'cause I talk about their European linen pants so much, but it's such