DJ Krush
DJ Krush (born Hideaki Ishi')
- Nationality: Japanese
- Occupation: DJ, record producer, composer
- Genre: Hip hop, trip hop, experimental
- Years active: 1987–present
- Labels: Mo' Wax, Columbia, Virgin, Echo
- Associated acts: Krush Posse, DJ Hide, MC Steady B, C.L. Smooth, Guru, Lyrics Born, Saul Williams, Mike Ladd
Early Life
Hideaki Ishi was born in Tokyo, Japan, on July 9, 1962. He became interested in hip hop music in the early 1980s, after hearing Afrika Bambaataa's single "Planet Rock". He began DJing in 1987, and adopted the name "DJ Krush" in 1989.
Career
DJ Krush released his debut album, "Krush", in 1994. The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to popularize Japanese hip hop music around the world. He has since released eight more studio albums, including "Meiso" (1995), "Strictly Turntablized" (1996), "Natural Born Chill" (1998), "Zen-?-ation" (2001), "Jaku" (2004), "Krush Groove" (2006), "Kaiju" (2008), and "Butterfly" (2014).
DJ Krush's music is often described as "trip hop", a genre that combines elements of hip hop, jazz, and electronic music. He is known for his use of samples, which he often takes from obscure sources such as Japanese traditional music, film soundtracks, and field recordings. His music is also characterized by its mellow and atmospheric sound, which has been compared to that of Brian Eno and Miles Davis.
DJ Krush has toured extensively throughout the world, and has performed at major festivals such as Coachella, Glastonbury, and Sonar. He has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including C.L. Smooth, Guru, Lyrics Born, Saul Williams, Mike Ladd, and Money Mark.
Awards and Recognition
DJ Krush has won numerous awards for his music, including the Japanese Music Awards for Best Hip Hop Album in 1994 and 1995. He was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 1998.
Legacy
DJ Krush is considered to be one of the most influential DJs and producers in hip hop history. He has helped to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western hip hop, and his music has inspired a new generation of artists. He is also known for his innovative use of samples and his ability to create music that is both relaxing and thought-provoking.
