DJ Snake

Early Life

William Sami Étienne Grigahcine, known as DJ Snake, was born on June 13, 1986, in Paris to Algerian parents. He grew up in Ermont, a suburb of Paris, which he describes as a ghetto. Influenced by hip-hop artists like KRS-One and Cypress Hill, he began his artistic journey as a graffiti artist, earning the nickname "Snake" for his ability to evade the police. He started DJing at the age of 14 and began producing music at 19, performing in clubs such as Le Bains Douches in Paris. In 2005, he met his manager Steve Goncalves, who encouraged him to create his own music.

Career

DJ Snake gained prominence in the music industry after producing tracks for major artists, including Lady Gaga's album "Born This Way," which earned him a Grammy nomination. His breakout single, "Turn Down for What," released in 2013, became a massive hit and solidified his status as a leading figure in electronic dance music (EDM). He has collaborated with various artists and produced several chart-topping singles, including "Lean On" and "Get Low." DJ Snake has performed at major music festivals, including Coachella, and was named one of Forbes' "30 Under 30 In Music" in 2016.

Personal Life

Outside of music, DJ Snake is a passionate supporter of the French football club Paris Saint Germain. He holds dual citizenship with France and Algeria, reflecting his cultural heritage. Despite his success, he remains grounded and connected to his roots, often citing his upbringing as a significant influence on his music and artistic vision.