At an age when most children are busy with school, homework and playtime, Illumi Maeda from Japan has earned a place in the Guinness World Records as the world’s youngest female club DJ. Known as DJ ILLU, she achieved the record at the age of 6 years and 99 days after performing for more than an hour at a club in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. According to the official website of Guinness World Records, Illumi performed in front of an enthusiastic crowd despite facing technical problems during her record attempt. “It was a very hectic day, and we had some problems with the equipment. I felt nervous, but I’m really glad I managed to do it!” she said, recalling the experience.For Illumi, the achievement is part of a musical journey that began much earlier than most people might expect. She started experimenting with DJing when she was just three years old.
How music became part of Illumi’s childhood
Photo credit: Guinness World Records
Illumi credits her family for introducing her to different kinds of music. Her mother regularly played music at home and in the car, while her great-grandparents helped create some of her earliest musical memories. “My family has always loved music of all kinds. One unforgettable memory is dancing to classical music with my great-grandpa and great-grandma,” she told Guinness World Records. She also described how her mother’s love of music shaped the atmosphere at home. Her mother would dance while doing household chores and invite friends from different countries over, making parties and music a normal part of family life. “Our home has always had a party atmosphere, which is probably a little unusual in Japan!” Illumi said.Her introduction to DJing came through her mother’s friends, who were DJs themselves. They began teaching her the basics little by little, allowing her interest to develop into a skill. Illumi also remembers turning to music when she felt low or lacked energy. Listening to Avicii, the late Swedish DJ and music producer, helped lift her spirits. That experience made her recognise how music could influence people’s moods and make them feel better.
Why she wanted to become a DJ
For Illumi, DJing is not just about mixing tracks or getting a crowd to dance. She enjoys watching people respond to music, express themselves and have fun together. “I love seeing everyone get into the music, dance, and have fun,” she said. She also enjoys the creative side of the craft, particularly when different sounds blend together well or a mix works out through instinct. As she continues to learn, she hopes to take on new challenges and improve her skills.Her larger ambition is to use music to support people going through difficult periods in their lives. “I want to become a DJ who makes music that lifts people’s spirits, brings them comfort, and helps them through difficult times, wherever they are in the world,” she told Guinness World Records. The record has also encouraged her to think about what she might do next. She hopes to perform at festivals around the world and attempt another Guinness World Records title in a different DJ-related category. She has another idea that combines two of her interests: music and ice cream. “I also want to open an ice cream shop and DJ there too!” she said.
School, homework and other interests
Despite her record-breaking achievement, Illumi’s routine still includes the activities familiar to many children her age. She attends an international school and spends time on homework after classes. She also listens to music, dances and practises DJing. Music is not her only interest. According to Guinness World Records, she also enjoys maths, snowboarding, snorkelling and travelling. Becoming a record holder has brought happiness, but Illumi admits that the achievement has not completely sunk in. She also feels some pressure to keep practicing, working hard and getting better.
