culture

Joel Zimmerman

Image of Joel Zimmerman

Joel Zimmerman, better known throughout the world by his stage name deadmau5 (pronounced dead mouse), was born and raised in Niagara Falls. He grew up with a love of computers, electronic gaming, and music. He developed his unique sound as a teenager, and by age 20, he was performing live as an Electro Music Producer. He is now based in Toronto and is renowned for his innovative performances and cutting edge computer technology.
The name "deadmau5" originated when Zimmerman found a dead mouse in his computer while replacing a video card. He discussed this with chat room users and became known as "that dead mouse guy." He is known for performing in a costume head which resembles a mouse.
MTV named deadmau5 as the house DJ for the 2010 MTV video Music Awards. He has won numerous awards including: three Juno Awards (he's been nominated five times), nominated for a Grammy, won Best Artist, Best Canadian DJ, Best Electro Track at the International Dance and Music Awards and has won numerous other Beaport Music Awards.
His song "Ghosts N Stuff" was been featured on the soundtrack for the MTV reality series Jersey Shore; "Some Chords" was featured on an episode of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation where Zimmerman guest starred; and an instrumental version of "Sofi Needs a Ladder" was featured in the film "The Hangover Part II".
Deadmau5 made history in December 2010 by selling out Earl's Court in London, with over 20,000 tickets sold.
In the same year, he had the honour of playing live at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, British Columbia. In 2011, he sold out the Rogers Centre in Toronto.