Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki is a Japanese-American poker player and a two-time Grammy-nominated DJ, producer, music programmer, record executive and a global brand ambassador for WPT. He’s been a prominent figure in EDM for over a decade, collaborating with renowned artists like Linkin Park and Blink-182. His Billboard-charting albums include the Grammy-nominated Wonderland. Aoki also founded the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund and offers a diverse collection of music, art, and clothing on his official website.

The documentary “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” has been available on Netflix since 2016, providing an introspective look into Aoki’s career and the driving forces behind presence. Aoki, streams on YouTube and Twitch, with 3.19 million subscribers and 80.7K followers, respectively.

Steve Aoki: Early Life

Steve Aoki was born on November 30, 1977, in Miami, Florida. He’s the 3rd child of Chizuru Kobayashi & Rocky Aoki. His father was a former wrestler who also founded the restaurant chain Benihana. He has 2 older siblings, sister Kana and brother Kevin, owner of Doraku Sushi restaurant. His half-sister’s model & actress Devon Aoki. Aoki grew up in Newport Beach, California. He graduated from Newport Harbor High School in 1995. Steve earned dual BA degrees in feminist studies and sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Aoki is a chess champion from the age of four and organized underground concerts. At the age of 20, he established the record label ‘Dim Mak,’ releasing music for artists like ‘The Bloody Beetroots’ and ‘Infected Mushroom.’ Steve started with remixes for ‘Moving Units,’. He also gained fame for acrobatic stunts during shows across the US, Canada, China, and Japan. His debut solo album, ‘Wonderland,’ earned a Grammy nomination. The documentary “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead,” is available on Netflix since 2016. It intricately captures Steve Aoki’s enthralling journey in the music world. In this film, the superstar DJ offers an intimate reflection on the driving forces that have propelled his remarkable career.

Married to Tiernan Cowling, Aoki manages ‘The Dim Mak Collection’. He also founded the ‘Steve Aoki Charitable Fund’ for humanitarian and medical causes. His EP, ‘5OKI,’ showcases global artists, reflecting his commitment to giving back through music.

From Beats to Bets: Aoki’s Introduction to the Cards

Steve Aoki was originally introduced to the game of poker by a close friend, DJ AM (Adam Goldstein). Unfortunately, he passed away in 2009. Steve Aoki and DJ AM frequently played together, engaging in the activity regularly. Following their performances, they would proceed to Commerce with the earnings from the show, utilizing the money for their buy-ins.

During that period, DJ AM was a more significant participant in the game compared to Steve Aoki. DJ AM had been actively playing for several years prior. He served as a mentor and imparted valuable lessons to Steve Aoki in poker.

Steve Aoki: Poker Career

Steve Aoki doesn’t have any tournament cashes to boast but he has shared glimpses of private home games on his social media platforms. He is a friend of 17-time WSOP bracelet winner Phil Hellmuth. He also made an appearance on the reboot of Poker After Dark alongside Dan Bilzerian.

In his poker pursuits, Steve participated in the $25,000 WPT Heads Up Championship. He encountered a 2-1 defeat against the seasoned high roller, Dan Smith.

WPT CEO Adam Pliska expressed the tour’s enthusiasm for having Aoki, a global superstar, involved in promoting its brand and events. Pliska conveyed in a press release, “Steve Aoki brings an unparalleled passion and energy to any venue. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the World Poker Tour, having Steve enhance the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown is precisely what we hoped for.”

Conclusion

Steve Aoki’s multifaceted career extends beyond his prominent role in the EDM scene. As the founder of the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund and a collaborator with renowned artists, he has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy and artistic expression. Aoki’s influence extends to the poker world, where, despite lacking a formal career record, he brings a fervent passion for the game. His association with poker events, such as the Seminole Hard Rock Poker Showdown, alongside his friendship with poker legends like Phil Hellmuth, underscores his genuine love for the card game.

With a massive social media following and a diverse portfolio that includes music, art, and clothing, Steve Aoki’s impact transcends traditional boundaries. His unique approach to life, marked by energy and inspiration, aligns seamlessly with the World Poker Tour’s vision. As the WPT celebrates its 20th anniversary, Aoki’s role as a brand ambassador reflects his dedication to poker and his desire to inspire others to embrace life to the fullest. Aoki’s presence in the poker community adds a dynamic and exciting dimension, making him an ideal representative for the World Poker Tour’s transformative journey.