TOKYO (AP) – At just 9 years old, DJ Rinoka has already made a name for herself in the electronic music scene as the world’s youngest DJ. She earned a spot in the Guinness World Records at the tender age of 6, showcasing her extraordinary talent in techno music even before she was old enough to enter clubs.
Rinoka's journey into the world of DJing began when she was only 4 years old, after being inspired by seeing renowned DJs Amelie Lens and Nina Kraviz on YouTube. Captivated by their performances, she asked for a Pioneer DDJ-200 DJ controller for Christmas, kickstarting her journey into music.
During a recent interview with The Associated Press, she expressed her enthusiasm for live performances, stating, “It’s fun when people get excited at the live performances.” Her passion is evident as she skillfully maneuvers the buttons on her DJ equipment, bobbing her body to the beats she creates.
Despite her fame, DJ Rinoka maintains typical childhood interests, including caring for her pet gecko and collecting stuffed animals. Notably, her toy dog named Korochan is a constant companion, accompanying her even on stage, while her gecko stays at home during her performances.
DJ Rinoka has a packed schedule filled with performances, including gigs at Tokyo's professional baseball team, the Yomiuri Giants' games, where she collaborates with much older DJs at various events. Her energetic performances enthrall audiences, captivating fans with her pulsating beats and captivating stage presence.
While incredibly talented, Rinoka, who prefers to keep her surname private, is also supported by parents who wish to maintain an ordinary childhood experience for their only child. She enjoys a balanced lifestyle, which includes taking hip-hop dance lessons, crafting with paper and aluminum foil, and keeping up with her schoolwork.
Techno music, the genre that Rinoka has embraced, has its roots in American cities like Detroit and is characterized by its heavy utilization of electronic instruments, including the renowned Roland machines. Within this genre, the intense and hypnotic sounds of acid house particularly resonate with her. Typically marked by a heavy kick, techno music invites listeners to dance away their worries, making it appealing to audiences around the globe.
Rinoka demonstrates an understanding of the universal appeal of this music, noting, “The music will continue,” reflecting her belief in the enduring nature of techno. However, when asked to choose between being a DJ and caring for multiple geckos, she enthusiastically chose the latter, saying, “The geckos. They are so cute.”
As DJ Rinoka continues to carve out her place in the music industry, her precocious talent and youthful exuberance offer a glimpse of a promising future in the world of electronic music.
