Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Steve Aoki has partnered with acclaimed Drum & Bass duo Koven to release their first-ever collaboration, “Nervous System,” via Monstercat. The track debuted live at Tomorrowland 2023, where Koven joined Aoki on stage for a performance that ignited the crowd, marking a significant moment for both artists and the broader dance music scene.
“Nervous System” arrives at a pivotal time when Drum & Bass is experiencing a surge in popularity across North America. The collaboration between Aoki, a global electronic music icon, and Koven, a rising force in Drum & Bass, underscores the genre’s growing influence. The track, featuring a driving bassline and infectious vocal hooks, reflects a blend of both artists’ signature styles and aims to introduce Drum & Bass to an even wider audience.
Steve Aoki expressed his excitement about working with Koven, saying, “Collaborating with Koven on ‘Nervous System’ was an incredible experience. I’ve admired their work for a while, and when the opportunity came up to collaborate, it was an easy decision. They brought a unique energy to the track, and I think we’ve created something special that both our fanbases will love. This track represents the best of both worlds.”
Koven, composed of producer Max Rowat and vocalist Katie Boyle, shared their enthusiasm about teaming up with Aoki. “Collaborating with Steve had been a goal of ours for quite a while,” Koven said. “We finally got to meet him at Tomorrowland 2023 after remixing one of his tracks, and when he expressed interest in working with us, we couldn’t believe it. We’re incredibly proud of ‘Nervous System’ and working with Steve was a fantastic experience.”
Steve Aoki’s reputation as a music pioneer is well-established. Known for his high-energy live performances and innovative approach to electronic music, Aoki has pushed the boundaries of the genre through collaborations with artists from various musical backgrounds, including Ne-Yo, BTS, and Linkin Park. With over 200 live performances annually, his presence in the music industry is formidable. His live shows, which often include his iconic cake-throwing antics, have become legendary, captivating audiences at major festivals such as Tomorrowland, Lollapalooza, and Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas.
Beyond his success as a performer, Aoki’s contributions to the electronic music landscape extend to the business side. As the founder of Dim Mak Records, he has played a crucial role in launching the careers of notable acts like The Chainsmokers, Bloc Party, and The Bloody Beetroots. His entrepreneurial ventures and influence within the industry continue to shape the future of dance music.
Koven, meanwhile, has risen to prominence as one of the leading acts in the Drum & Bass scene. Known for their cinematic soundscapes and powerful vocals, the duo has made significant strides globally, performing at major festivals like Parookaville and EDC Las Vegas, and collaborating with high-profile artists such as ODESZA and Tiesto. Their debut album, Butterfly Effect, earned them a nomination at the Drum & Bass Arena Awards, solidifying their status as a driving force within the genre.
The release of “Nervous System” marks a key moment in both Aoki and Koven’s careers, blending their distinct styles and introducing new audiences to the growing popularity of Drum & Bass. As the genre continues to expand beyond its UK roots, collaborations like this one are helping to propel it into the mainstream dance music arena.
With “Nervous System,” Steve Aoki and Koven have created a track that not only showcases their individual talents but also represents the evolving landscape of electronic music, where genre boundaries are increasingly being blurred.
