Dan the Automator is an influential record producer, DJ, and composer known for his pioneering work in hip-hop and collaborations that span diverse musical genres.
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Request A ShowDan the Automator produced the debut album for the band Gorillaz, an organic and dynamic collaboration with Blur lead singer Damon Albarn. The album's success is considered timeless and unique.
Reservoir Media expanded its relationship with Grammy-nominated producer and songwriter Dan the Automator through a new worldwide publishing deal. This agreement covers his current and future works and publishing administration.
Atlas Music Publishing entered a joint venture with hip-hop artist and producer Dan 'The Automator' Nakamura. This partnership was announced with Dan's publishing company, Sharkman Music.
Dan the Automator is the founder of the publishing company Sharkman Music.
Dan the Automator is the founder of the record label 75 Ark.
Dan the Automator worked on a new Handsome Boy Modeling School album and a collaboration with hip-hop producer Just Blaze for Mass Appeal Records.
Handsome Boy Modeling School, featuring Dan the Automator, released a limited edition LP of 7 new songs in collaboration with Fords Gin.
Dan the Automator was announced as one of the remixers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup theme, representing the San Francisco Bay Area.
Daniel M. Nakamura, known professionally as Dan the Automator, was born on August 29, 1966, in San Francisco, California. His parents were survivors of Japanese internment camps. He developed an early interest in music, learning to play the violin as a child. During his high school years, he became deeply involved in hip-hop culture, which set the foundation for his future career. He later graduated from San Francisco State University.
Nakamura began his musical journey as a DJ during his teenage years. After witnessing the skills of DJs like Qbert and Mix Master Mike, he shifted his focus to producing. He first gained significant recognition for his production work on Kool Keith’s 1996 album, “Dr. Octagonecologyst.” His debut EP, “Music to Be Murdered By,” was released in 1989, followed by his debut album, “A Much Better Tomorrow,” in 2000. Throughout his career, he has founded his own publishing company, Sharkman Music, and record label, 75 Ark.
Dan the Automator’s career is marked by notable collaborations and the creation of several iconic groups. In 1999, he formed Handsome Boy Modeling School with Prince Paul. In 2000, he co-founded Deltron 3030 with Del the Funky Homosapien and Kid Koala, releasing their eponymous debut album. A significant milestone was producing the debut album for Damon Albarn’s Gorillaz in 2001, which achieved widespread commercial and critical success. He also formed Got a Girl with Mary Elizabeth Winstead, releasing their debut album in 2014. His contributions extend to film scoring, notably composing for the 2019 film “Booksmart” and the 2022 film “Easter Sunday.”
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