Would it not be an overstatement that DJ EMMA, whose name derived from the King of Hell in Buddhism, is the one and only genuine DJ that Japan is proud of?
Having started DJing in 1985, he has made numerous parties at Tokyo venues successful. In 1994, he signed with “GOLD”, a legendary club that created the era of foundation for house-based club music and culture in the 90’s in Japan, comparable to the Paradise Garage or the Saint in the 80’s in New York, and worked successfully as a regular Saturday resident DJ until closing of the club. With his superb, aggressive yet smooth skills and DJ sets, GOLD and the rest of the Tokyo club scene reached their peak, and he made himself known to all the Tokyo NITELISTs, the name created by himself for a core night clubber.
Since 1995, he has engaged not only in spinning, but also in music production. As part of “Malawi Rocks”, a unit with Taro Kawauchi, he has released a number of remix and original productions and scored hits. From the same year, he started releasing a mix CD series, “EMMA HOUSE”, which has always been a smashing hit at every release offering an up-to-date sound. In his productions, he has always been particular about the recording, focused on the latest technologies of the time such as using DSD recording for a mix CD (“Live at Yellow, Tokyo”) for the first time in the world and the live feel of the floor, as well as mastering techniques. In 2000, he started his own dance music label, “Nitelist Music”, and has released 2 compilation CDs. While his CDs are continued to be played at party scenes, he continues to release 12-inch records of Japanese hit-making artists as well as CDs.
In 2009 as well, he is as vigorous as ever, playing long sets every weekend for his regular gigs at Tokyo’s top venues including “Trouble House (with AIBA/lighting & laser + UNU/vj) @ WOMB” and “Ultra Music @ ageHa”, as well as spinning internationally.
“EMMA HOUSE 16 / RHYTHM ZONE” ON SALE FEB 25, 2009