Meet Japan’s leading female DJ, superstar Sarasa. The artist who was breaking before she learnt her skills on the turntables, grew up in downtown New York, owns a booming taqueria in Tokyo…and is still the go to authority on everything music wise in Japan.
You travel the world playing your art. Where do you really call home?
Home has always been a central theme in my life. I was born in New York, spent my adolescence in Japan, and went to university in Canada, so I never had just one place to call home as I was moving all over the place. I used to constantly ask myself, Where do I belong?
But over the years, especially while traveling the world doing what I love, I’ve met people who made me feel grounded and understood no matter where I was. That’s when I realized that home isn’t necessarily a physical place. It’s not necessarily something you have to own or return to. Home, to me, is a feeling of belonging… wherever you are. That’s why I don’t get “Homesick” on the road either. But yes, it is all thanks to my amazing friends all over the world.
If you could have written any song, what would it be and why?
I feel like there are a few things I could share about the world… thoughts that are uniquely mine, or maybe just more convincing because I’ve lived them. One of those is about the quiet magic of envisioning something so clearly, so intensely, that it starts to unfold right in front of you. The feeling is so strong, it blocks everything else out. It’s not just a dream. It’s like a deep, steady knowing. That sense of certainty has always been what keeps me going. Especially when the vision isn’t just for me, but for something that could make someone else’s life better. That’s the kind of purpose I always come back to.
Your early DJ influences…
I was breaking before I ever touched turntables… and the album I remember playing in the background the most while we practiced was Rob Swift’s Dope on Plastic. Years later, I met Rob Swift in Japan and casually told him, “I want to be a DJ.” He looked at me and simply said, “Yeah, do it.” …Just like that. And somehow, that moment gave me the final push I needed. Funny how a few words at the right time can change everything.
The first vinyl you bought…
Time is Slipping Away by Dexter Wansel.
Hip Hop was created in the Bronx…when did your love affair with New York begin…
I lived in NY from the age of 4 to 12, so music from the city always felt familiar. Like a heartbeat I grew up with. But it wasn’t until I moved back to Japan that I truly fell for 80s hip hop. The music, the fashion, the attitude… something about it made me so happy and myself. Inspired by Afrika Bambaataa, I would to wear wild, shiny, colorful outfits and these one-piece sunglasses that went straight across my eyes. Every photo? Total B-girl stance… No exceptions!
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
When asking someone for a favor, it’s important to consider that, whether consciously or not—the person you’re asking is likely wondering, “What’s in it for me?” It’s not selfish; it’s human nature. Being mindful of this allows you to approach the request with empathy and clarity, showing that you value their time and effort, and that you’ve thought about how it could be mutually beneficial.
When did you first become aware of DMC?
I first became aware of DMC in 2002 when DJ Kentaro won the World Championship. That’s when I learned he was the first Asian to ever take the title… But his routine was so precise, musical, and full of explosive energy—blending hip-hop, drum & bass, and turntablism in a completely fresh way. Through DMC, that moment put Japan on the global map and made me realize how powerful turntablism could be… of course, this was after idolizing DJ Honda for the longest time as a successful DJ from Japan making waves in New York!
What does it take to become a GREAT DMC Champion… what skills are required?
To become a great DMC Champion, of course it takes way more than just technical skill… it’s the perfect storm of creativity, precision, presence, and obsession. But what really astonishes me is the flawless timing and razor-sharp execution… even while working with skippable needles and records under serious pressure. That level of control, with such fragile tools, in front of a crowd and judges? I don’t know how they do it, really.
Tell us about your love of the gastronomy world…
I was once on tour in Mexico when I completely fell in love with tacos. That trip planted a seed, and now I run a taqueria called Casa De Sarasa in the heart of Shibuya, Tokyo. I’ve always been a foodie, but I never imagined stepping into the gastronomy world myself. I didn’t start with a grand plan. I just wanted to share what I experienced. Little did I know it would take a full-on army to bring that vision to life. Up until then, I was just a DJ with a good appetite!
3 tunes that never leave your box…
Donald Byrd & 125th Street, N.Y.C. – I Feel Like Loving You Today
One Way – Cutie Pie
Dilated Peoples – Worst Comes to Worst
It’s your birthday! Which DJ do you ask to play?
DJ Rhettmatic!!!
What are your life objectives for the next 12 months?
I’ve noticed that many of my short-term goals mirror my long-term values. I find happiness in simplicity and purity, and I’m intentionally building a life that reflects that. Becoming a better listener and leading with compassion are personal goals I’m committed to…being fully present and attentive in my interactions. Above all, I want to make more time for the people I love, and ensure that time is truly meaningful and rich in quality. That said, no time for bullsh*t moving forward!!
@djsarasa