Steve Aoki on Building a Music Empire and the Power of Giving Back with Lewis Howes

Small Shows

Steve Aoki reflects on the profound impact of performing in small venues, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections with the audience. He shares how these intimate settings allowed him to engage deeply with fans, treating them as peers rather than just spectators. This approach stems from his own experiences as a fan, where meaningful interactions with artists changed his life.

It's Connection. It's like having a real connection with people and looking at them in the eye and actually communicating.

--- Steve Aoki

Steve believes that being present and connecting with even a small audience is crucial, as it lays the foundation for authentic relationships and lasting impressions 1 2.

   

Large Crowds

Engaging large crowds requires a unique strategy, and Steve has mastered the art of focusing on individual connections to bring the entire audience together. He highlights the importance of honing in on one or two people in the crowd to create a ripple effect of engagement throughout the venue. This technique not only enhances the experience for those individuals but also revitalizes his own energy and connection to the performance.

Even if the rest of the people are just leaving. You just got to remember you can't be harsh on yourself and just focus on the people that care.

--- Steve Aoki

Steve's journey from small shows to large venues has taught him that practice and perseverance are key, as each performance is an opportunity to refine his craft and connect with his audience on a deeper level 3 4.