Japanese DJ Yousuke Yukimatsu, known for his topless sets and eclectic mixes, is on a mission to promote peace through music. A brain cancer survivor, he now dedicates his life to DJing full-time, aiming to inspire hope and encourage positive change.
From Seizure to Survival
Ten years ago, Yukimatsu had an epileptic seizure and was found collapsed at home by friends. Doctors diagnosed a brain tumor, leading to two craniotomies, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. He posted on a crowdfunding platform, noting that without friends' intervention, he might have died. The experience drove him to make DJing his full-time career.
A Unique DJ Style
Yukimatsu's sets are known for their intensity and diversity, mixing experimental techno with Beastie Boys, Taylor Swift, and Aphex Twin. His November 2024 Boiler Room set in Tokyo has nearly 20 million views. He describes his anti-purist style as "techno with all manner of other sounds mixed in."
Promoting Peace
Yukimatsu wears a "no war" pendant and incorporates tracks like Fatboy Slim's "Drop the Hate" and Jamie xx's "Treat Each Other Right" into his sets. He believes it's important for musicians to speak up about politics, especially in Japan where such discussion can be criticized.
Current Tour and Future
Yukimatsu is on a world tour, with UK dates from August 22-30. He will support the Prodigy at their UK gigs. His cancer is now in remission after a checkup in early 2025. He continues to refine his craft, stating, "I want to be a better DJ and a better human being."
