Everything You Need to Know About DJ Akademiks: Jamaican-American Podcaster and YouTuber
Livingston Allen, better known as DJ Akademiks, is a prominent figure in the world of hip-hop media. As a Jamaican-American podcaster, internet personality, Youtuber, and live streamer.
Akademiks has made a significant impact on the industry through his unique blend of commentary, news coverage, and music.
From his early days as a disc jockey at Rutgers University to his rise as a YouTube sensation and podcast host, DJ Akademiks' journey is a testament to his influence and resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
Early Life and Education
Livingston Allen, popularly known as DJ Akademiks, also by his stage name Lil AK, is a prominent Jamaican-American podcaster, internet personality, and live streamer.
He was born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, where he spent his early years. Raised primarily by his mother and grandmother, Akademiks had a challenging upbringing. His father, a school principal, had many extramarital affairs, which distanced him from his family.
This troubled relationship with his father left a significant mark on Akademiks, but he eventually came to terms with it as he grew older.
In 2001, Akademiks and his brother moved to the United States to reunite with their mother, who had migrated earlier and worked various jobs to support her family.
Akademiks pursued higher education at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, where he earned a bachelor's degree in biomathematics.
During his time at Rutgers, he was a disc jockey for the university radio station WRSU-FM, but his tenure ended in 2013 due to controversial commentary and music choices.
Rise to Fame on YouTube
DJ Akademiks initially gained popularity through online hip-hop forums and YouTube. He created his first YouTube channel in October 2012, where he shared his disc jockey sessions, interviews, and opinions on hip-hop and rap.
Over time, he transitioned to posting breaking news in the hip-hop/rap genre, which significantly boosted his following.
In May 2014, Akademiks launched a YouTube channel titled Crime Fails, showcasing criminals' mishaps during or after their crimes.
A month later, he created The War in Chiraq, focusing on gang conflicts in Chicago and the drill music scene.
This channel played a crucial role in bringing Chicago drill music to a broader audience, amassing a quarter million subscribers and 94 million views in its first two years.
Diversifying Content and Expanding Influence
By February 2015, DJ Akademiks had created another YouTube channel, King Akademiks, dedicated to highlights from his Twitch livestreams.
In March 2015, he launched Akademiks TV, featuring footage from various hip-hop and rap musicians without his commentary.
In July of the same year, he moved his content to a new self-titled YouTube channel after his original channel was suspended.
In August 2015, Akademiks created DJ Akademiks TV2 – The Negrotiator, a backup channel with a more critical and opinionated approach.
This channel was later renamed "The Akademy" in February 2023 and primarily used to host full-length YouTube livestreams.
Mainstream Media Presence
From April 2017 to December 2020, DJ Akademiks co-hosted Everyday Struggle, a daily morning show for Complex Networks, alongside Joe Budden (later replaced by Star and Wayno) and Nadeska Alexis.
One notable moment from this period was a tense interview with Atlanta rap group Migos at the 2017 BET Awards pre-show, which drew significant media attention.
In April 2018, Akademiks introduced his rapper alter-ego Lil AK, releasing a music video for "Blues Clues," featuring a cameo from rapper 6ix9ine.
This video garnered 3.2 million views, and he continued releasing music under the Lil AK moniker until September 2020.
Podcasting and Livestreaming
In August 2021, DJ Akademiks launched his podcast, Off the Record with DJ Akademiks, in partnership with Spotify.
The podcast features roundtable discussions and interviews with various hip-hop and rap musicians and media personalities, releasing three episodes per week.
In April 2023, Akademiks announced his exclusive livestreaming deal with Rumble, motivated by the platform's monetary offer and lax moderation policies.
This move marked a significant shift in his career, focusing on live interactions with his audience.
Controversies
Throughout his career, DJ Akademiks has been no stranger to controversy. In July 2020, he was suspended from Complex for insulting model Chrissy Teigen during a Twitch live stream.
Although he later apologized, stating he went over the line, this incident highlighted his often contentious presence in the media.
In September 2022, he faced criticism from hip-hop legends LL Cool J, MC Lyte, Russell Simmons, and Spice 1 for calling older rappers "dusty."
Additionally, he was criticized for sharing a video of rapper PnB Rock discussing potential robbery targets shortly after PnB Rock was m*rdered in a robbery attempt.
In May 2024, a lawsuit was filed against DJ Akademiks by Fauziya "Ziya" Abashe, accusing him of rape, se*ual assault, and defamation.
This lawsuit stemmed from a July 2022 incident at his home, further adding to his controversial public image.
Trivia and Current Status
DJ Akademiks boasts 2.8 million subscribers on his primary YouTube channel and significant followings on his side channels, including The Negrotiator aka DJ Akademiks, LateNightCreepVids, The War In Chiraq, King Akademiks, and Crime Fails.
His influence in the hip-hop and rap community continues to grow, with his podcast and livestreaming ventures expanding his reach even further.
Despite the controversies, DJ Akademiks remains a prominent figure in the hip-hop media landscape.
DJ Akademiks' journey from a young immigrant from Jamaica to a leading figure in hip-hop media is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to adapt and evolve with the changing landscape of digital media has allowed him to maintain a significant presence in the industry.
While his career has been marred by controversies, his influence and impact on hip-hop culture cannot be denied.
As DJ Akademiks continues to navigate his path, his contributions to the world of hip-hop and digital media will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.