Japanese DJ Yousuke Yukimatsu, one of the most respected names in the global electronic scene, has confessed that a brain tumor diagnosed a decade ago completely changed his life and the way he sees his mission as an artist.
The 47-year-old revealed that in 2016 he suffered an epileptic seizure and was found unconscious in his apartment after failing to show up for a festival he was invited to. Doctors discovered he was suffering from a brain tumor and he underwent two surgeries, as well as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Today, Yukimatsu is in remission and recent medical checkups have confirmed that the tumor no longer exists.
The artist says that the difficult experience made him realize that he needed to fully dedicate himself to music and use it to convey messages of hope and peace.
"The world is becoming more and more dangerous. New weapons are being developed and violence is being normalized. I want people to feel hope through my sets. I want to bring a little light," he said.
Yukimatsu has become a phenomenon on the international electronic music scene. His Tokyo set in 2024 at Boiler Room has garnered nearly 20 million views, and this summer he is embarking on a world tour and will also be supporting the legendary band The Prodigy in the UK.
Known for his energetic, often shirtless performances, and for his style that blends techno with rock, pop and experimental music, Yukimatsu says he doesn't believe in boundaries between genres.
"It doesn't matter what genre it is. If the music is good, then it's good," he said.
In addition to music, the DJ always wears a pendant with the inscription "No War" around his neck, considering promoting peace part of his mission as an artist.
"I want to be a better DJ and a better person. I remind myself of that every day," Yukimatsu concluded.
