The collaboration between Steve Aoki and BTS was pivotal in BTS’s journey to break into the Western music market. Working with a renowned American DJ and producer like Steve Aoki provided BTS with increased visibility and credibility in the international music scene. The “Mic Drop” remix became a significant hit, showcasing BTS’s dynamic energy and versatility. “The Truth Untold” also highlighted their ability to deliver emotionally resonant ballads, endearing them to a global audience.
The collaboration between Steve Aoki and BTS
Steve Aoki, who has collaborated with BTS several times, created remixes of the songs “Mic Drop” and “The Truth Untold.” He is a popular American music artist (DJ, record producer, music programmer, record executive) of Japanese origin.
Steve Aoki
Steve Aoki is an important music artist due to his significant influence in the electronic dance music (EDM) genre. As one of its most prominent figures, Aoki has shaped the genre with his innovative sounds and energetic performances. His prolific career includes numerous chart-topping albums and singles, showcasing his versatility and wide-reaching influence through collaborations with artists from various genres.
Beyond music, Aoki is a successful entrepreneur who founded Dim Mak Records, a label that has launched many successful careers. Known for his high-energy live shows and unique stage antics, he has built a massive global fan base. Additionally, as a Japanese-American artist, Aoki has increased the visibility of Asian artists in Western music, breaking cultural barriers and promoting diversity in the industry.
Steve Aoki was introduced to BTS in 2016 on “The Andy Trieu Show,” marking the beginning of their successful collaboration.
Waste It on Me
“Waste It on Me,” the first fully English song featuring BTS, marked a significant step in reaching English-speaking audiences. Released as part of Steve Aoki’s album “Neon Future III,” the song featured contributions from BTS members RM, Jungkook, and Jimin, underscoring their versatility and commitment to engaging with a broader audience. This collaboration helped BTS gain recognition in the Western market and demonstrated their ability to seamlessly integrate into different musical styles and languages, paving the way for future successes in the global music industry.
Asian representation in Waste It on Me
“Waste It on Me,” a song by Steve Aoki featuring BTS, cast several popular Asian artists in its music video, celebrating Asian representation in mainstream media. The video featured a star-studded cast, including:
- Ken Jeong – Known for his roles in “The Hangover” series and the TV show “Community,” Ken Jeong played a central role in the music video, bringing his comedic flair and charm.
- Jamie Chung – An actress and former reality TV star, Jamie Chung has appeared in numerous films and TV series, including “The Gifted” and “Once Upon a Time.”
- Ross Butler – Recognized for his roles in “13 Reasons Why” and “Riverdale,” Ross Butler’s acting talents added to the video’s appeal.
- Devon Aoki – A model and actress, and Steve Aoki’s half-sister, Devon Aoki, is known for her roles in “Sin City” and “2 Fast 2 Furious.”
- Leonardo Nam – An actor known for his work in “Westworld” and “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift.”
Including these notable Asian artists highlighted the importance of representation and diversity in media, celebrating Asian culture and talent in a mainstream platform. This move resonated with many fans and helped emphasize the growing influence of Asian artists in global entertainment.