Creating a precious moment with his Filipino fans, Grammy-nominated DJ Steve Aoki can't wait to revisit the Philippines. 

In an exclusive Zoom with Manila Bulletin Entertainment recently, Steve shared that he would love to work with artists, including Olivia Rodrigo and Bruno Mars. 

"Of course, I'd like to work with Pinoy artists because there are many Pinoys with incredible voices. Is it Olivia Rodrigo Filipino? Yeah, I would love to have a song with her. And Bruno Mars, he's like the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time), I would also like to work with him," Steve said. 

Aside from his dream collaborations, Steve mentioned that he has been good friends with APL DE AP from Black Eyed Peas and Arnel Pineda from Journey. 

"I know, Apl; he's like a proud Pinoy, right? And I also met the singer from Journey, Arnel. We've been good friends, and I know he's part of the Pinoy community, and we're talking a lot; you know he's such a nice guy, and what voice, right?" Steve added. 

Steve's love for the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) community and fans is something he always treasured. During the interview, he was asked where his dream destination would be when returning to the Philippines. 

"I've been to Manila many times, so I think I would like to come to Cebu because it is such a nice place," he added. 

'HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix'

Steve will highlight a fusion of art, music, and storytelling on his recent album. "HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix" is inspired by nostalgia and the dynamic sounds of contemporary dance, Latin music, and more.

"I love creating stories, I love creating brands, so one's a bit different because we made a book from it, which we will release next year. HiROQUEST is an IP I've created to tell these unique stories. On my new album, I've been inspired by the past and the present, with Latin and dance collaborations at the core. These sounds are staples in my sets around the world and they allow me to connect with audiences on a truly global level," Steve said.

It seamlessly integrates these elements with the diverse cultural influences Steve has encountered during his extensive global touring, performing over 200 shows a year worldwide.

The first 'HiROQUEST' drew from Steve's alternative music and punk band roots. With 'Double Helix,' the story advances, expanding both the sonic palette and the narrative of Hiro.

Alongside the new LP, his new single “Us” featuring country music singer ERNEST is accompanied by a music video from filmmaker and photographer Val Vega.

The track spans multiple genres, bridging country with Steve's EDM sensibilities to create a new and exciting musical fusion.

“I've been a huge fan of ERNEST's songwriting for a while so when I first heard him singing on the demo of this song, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to work together. Regardless of the music genre, his lyrics and vocal delivery work perfectly. Together we were able to create a song that feels authentically dance while maintaining his country roots," Steve said.

"HiROQUEST 2: Double Helix" features collaborations with Paris Hilton, Akon, Ángela Aguilar, Danna Paola, Greeicy, Galantis, JJ Lin, Hayley Kiyoko, Galantis, Timmy Trumpet, and John Martin.