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Listen to All that Jive by Kwekwe Karu on Deezer. With music streaming on Deezer you can discover more than 56 million tracks, create your own playlists, and share your favorite tracks with your friends.
Since bursting onto the scene at the beginning of the decade, the future bass pioneer Flume has dazzled with his innovative sound design. With truly outrageous live performances, countless chart-topping hits, and legendary remixes, he's surely one of the most dynamic forces in electronic music.
Take the quiz below for a challenging test on how well you know the man himself.
Get a recap of the month's new releases with our monthly top picks playlist.
With the new year just around the corner, artists have been in a frenzy to get their last songs out -and it was worth the wait. From house, big room and progressive house to dubstep, drum and bass and trap tracks, this month has seen a wide variety of releases across the sub-genre board.
House was a popular subgenre this month with releases like EDX's electric club-friendly "Voltaic," and Diplo and SIDEPIECE's bass house collaboration "On My Mind." Though above all, Oliver Heldens dominated the subgenre with his own spin on Kerri Chandler's house classic "Atmosphere." Keeping true to the original's classic house vibe and chords, "Aquarius" brings the bass lines and melodies to the forefront and entices listeners to stick around for the whole song.
As for artists exploring different sounds, this month big room heavyweight Tiƫsto released a melodic dance-pop track called "BLUE." The Dutch DJ said he wanted to end the year with a track that's a "different vibe" for him. For someone who's also been experimenting with his sound this year, 3LAU traded the electronic dance pop for some trance. He joined the Anjunabeats family with "Tokyo."
Rezz finally dropped her electric dubstep collaboration with Yultron, "Hell On Earth," which she teased throughout the fall festival season. KOVEN. brought us a two-track release with vocal drum and bass track "Give You Up" and a dubstep fueled "Followers" that show her versatility and mastery of her sound.
After three years, sister DJ duo Krewella announced that they'll be dropping their sophomore album, zer0, next month. The pair told Billboard, "With this album, we've really tried to scour the globe for influences for collaborators. It's an extremely international project. We just want people to listen to it and feel like they're a part of something really, really big." Along with the good news, the pair released "Good On You," which should get any of their fans excited about their new sound.
For more awesome big room, house, dubstep, drum and bass, trap, future house, progressive house and electronic songs, be sure to check out the rest of our playlist.
Foley effects from The Mandalorian bear striking similarities to sounds used in Virtual Riot's music.
It's fairly common for producers to suspect that their ideas have been co-opted by others, but seldom is the culprit a franchise as big as Star Wars. Virtual Riot has asserted that such is the case, however, and that his samples have been used in the Disney+ original series The Mandalorian.
Background noises in a scene of Episode 2 of the series bear distinct similarities to a Virtual Riot (real name Christian Valentin Brunn) sample. He recently tweeted a video of himself cueing the sound effect side by side with the playback of the scene from a television, and has brought up again since then.
Brunn hails from Marl, Germany and frequently releases on Disciple Recordings, among other record labels. Prior to his Virtual Riot project, he produced music under the alias Your Personal Tranquilizer.
Brunn's lighthearted tone suggests his suspicion is more of a lighthearted observation than a serious grievance.
8tracks internet radio is shuttering all operations after 11 years.
Internet radio platform 8tracks is shutting down all operations after December 31st, 2019. The platform currently has just shy of a million monthly active users.
8tracks Founder David Porter broke down some of the reasons behind the tough decision in a blog post. Ultimately the company struggled to adapt in a hot market as competitors such as Spotify took market share.
Much like its competitors, 8tracks also struggled to find a path to profitable scalability. The final nail in the coffin, however, was when a recent prospective buyer fell through. The company no longer has the cash flow to continue, thus forcing them to shut down.
Porter shared the company's story and decision-making process in great detail. One illuminating development came in 2013 when the company could no longer categorize itself as a small webcaster. Given its revenues and growth at the time it became subject to new regulation as a large webcaster. This meant the company now had to pay royalties on a per on a per-stream basis rather than as a percentage share of total revenues, completely shaking up its primarily ad-driven business model.
Porter ended by saying fans of 8tracks have the opportunity to export their playlists to Spotify. Visit 8tracks.com, search a mix, and click the "Save playlist to Spotify” button.
Martin Garrix and his management are setting the record straight.
Since The Higher Court of Leeuwarden recently ruled in favor of Spinnin' Records and MusicAllStars Management's appeal against Martin Garrix, both Martin Garrix (real name Martijn Garritsen) and his management team have responded.
Following the ruling, Eelko van Kootenconfirmed he was "delighted" with the ruling. The case alleged van Kooten, Garritsen's former manager, was engaged in a conflict of interest and actively coercing Garritsen into an unfavorable contractual agreement. van Kooten believes the new ruling proves these accusations, which were in part aimed at him personally, were unjustified.
Now, Garritsen and his management also seem to be claiming victory. Garritsen states his intent in pursuing legal action to begin with was was mainly because he was seeking to reclaim ownership of his intellectual property, which he successfully did in 2017.
Garritsen states the new appeal ruling does not change the ownership status of his music, and his management team has confirmed as much.
MusicAllStars Management [MAS] "will be compensated for some outstanding items for their work from January 2015 to July 30, 2015 (which is not special)" Garritsen's current management team told Billboard. The statement goes on to say, "MAS and Spinnin’ did thus not gain anything with these cases except that they have incurred enormous costs for themselves and Martijn."
It seems that despite the appeal ruling, Garritsen largely comes out on the positive end of the ordeal having retained custody of the rights to his first two EP releases, Gold Skies and Break Through The Silence.
"Don't say house and techno are EDM... They were before EDM."
A figurehead close to the epicenter of dance culture has weighed in on a longstanding debate regarding the initialism "EDM." Green Velvet has called for fans of electronic music to discern between EDM and genres like techno and house on which it's based.
In a tweet that made its rounds on social media, Green Velvet (real name Curtis Alan Jones) compared house and techno to rock and roll in that the mainstream narrative surrounding each fails to acknowledge the originators. "Don't say house and techno are EDM," he wrote. "They were before EDM. Do your research and discover the first time the term EDM was used."
Although used in remote circles much longer ago, EDM came into widespread use in the late 2000s as U.S. promoters sought to distance themselves from negative connotations with the word "rave." "The association of techno with ecstasy, we really had to overcome that stigma," Gary Richards told The Guardian in 2012. "If you approach a venue owner or local authority for permits and you use the word 'rave,' your business model is doomed."
The pioneers who laid the foundation for dance culture often don't take kindly to more traditional electronic music being lumped in with what the term has come to represent, however. As we've recently been over, the initialism may be better used to describe styles, influences and attitudes that emerged during a general time period within electronic music history than to define all of it.
Jones will perform next at Asylum in Gold Coast, Australia on January 3rd, 2020.
Krewella teased their second album single in a partnership with Orangetheory.
As part of a new partnership with Orangetheory Fitness, fans can now listen to Krewella's second single, "Greenlights." It's a cut from the duo's forthcoming album, zer0.
Krewella's Jahan and Yasmine Yousaf announced their upcoming studio-length album in early December, dropping the lead single, "Good On You," at the time.
Now, the duo has teased their second single, "Greenlights," in a new ad placement with the popular fitness franchise Orangetheory. The company is launching the spot as part of their "Welcome To More Life" campaign. The campaign arrives as the company continues to aggressively grow. The fitness chain crossed $1 billion in revenue in 2018 and is pulling out the stops in order to operate 2,500 studios and achieve 2.5 million members by 2024.
Krewella seem to share a similarly growth-oriented mindset as they approach this new chapter. The duo commented, "We were so inspired to write a song that exhibited the meaning of ‘more life’ we’re constantly searching for different ways to tear down our own insecurities, barriers, or whatever else gets in the way of us growing as people."
Krewella will be officially releasing "Greenlights" on January 17th. The duo's full album, zer0, arrives on January 31st.
AudioModern Riffer and Modal CraftSynth 2 Rhythm as you see de tuning oscillators let’s you simulate chords on synth’s like the CraftSynth 2 and this should work equally well with Korg Volca’s etc
Dance music fans in Denver have perhaps too many New Years options nowadays. Revelers will flock to Decadence in the tens of thousands, not to mention gatherings at nightclubs like Temple Denver and dress-up affairs like Resolution NYE. Despite recent warehouse venue closures, a number of after hours events will await those who carry on into the wee hours.
With the city’s underground scene thriving more than ever, though, the most seasoned partiers will invariably wind up in the same place after the sun rises for the first time in 2020. Day One has started at 7:00 AM on January 1st for 20 years in a row, and against all odds the unorthodox event brand appears to be in its prime.
The 2020 edition will mark the third time it’s taken place at Bar Standard, a mainstay among Mile High house and techno enthusiasts. This year, organizers have adopted a Roaring ‘20s theme - a clever way to usher in this century's '20s. Split between four dance floors connected by what feels like a labyrinth of stairwells will be local veteran DJs like Greg Eversoul, Mental 69, Schmid-e and Diverse in addition to fresh faces like Emyli Dahlia and T-Rav. Christian Martin will return as the main floor headliner as well as a TBA headliner for the drum and bass/breaks room.
At the time of Day One's inception, however, Y2K hysteria had limited partygoers’ options. Many feared that calendar formatting bugs would lead to a widespread technological breakdown at the turn of the millennium. Oddly enough, this gave the party's organizers a unique need to satisfy in the Denver nightlife ecosystem.
Left to right: Thomas Heath and Nelson Guanipa outside Day One in 2000.
The inaugural event was the brainchild of promoters Thomas Heath, Kenton Schawe A.K.A. Nutmeg and Chris Irvin, the latter of whom continues to host some of the city’s grittier parties today. Even in his 40s, Irvin exudes the crude sort of punk rock swagger and DIY purism that you would expect from somebody who’s intentionally reveled in obscurity throughout electronic music’s pop culture peaks and valleys. Having played records and thrown parties since the ‘80s, he founded a production company alongside the late DJ Dizzy called Outta’ Our Heads (OOH) in 1996 to go against the grain of more established local promoters.
“In the early days OOH always strived to bring up new local DJs who didn't have a shot with the 'big' rave companies of the day, but who had serious talent,” Irvin told EDM.com. “Dizzy and I named it OOH as we were 'outta' our heads' to go against the big four companies of the time: A&E, Together, Poorboy and Roofless or Odyssey, who had control of the Saturday night party scene.”
Given OOH’s underdog sensibility, it made perfect sense for them to explore avenues that other operators wouldn’t touch as the turn of the millennium approached. “I was the guy who figured out that all bars/nightclubs could start serving booze legally at 7:00 AM since clubs had to be closed from 2:00 AM to 7:00 AM,” Irvin said. “Y2K paranoia had all the 'big' promoters in town scared off the date. All the kids were coming into [now shuttered record store] Soulflower asking, 'Where's the NYE party?' No venues were available for an all nighter, so OOH came up with a better plan: Start the party at 7:00 am when it's legal.”
“The idea for the first one was simple,” Heath told EDM.com. “It was the beginning of a new millennium and I knew everyone wanted to party like it was 1999. No one would be satisfied with only partying until dawn. OOH would be the only ones ballsy and crazy enough to bring that kind of party.”
The first Day One took place on January 1st, 2000 at The Roxy Theatre in Five Points, which was among Denver’s more crime-riddled neighborhoods at the time. Whereas recent installments of the event run from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the debut edition extended all the way until 3:00 AM the following day. The concept was successful enough to return year after year, and before long it had taken place in downtown locations like La Boheme, Opal and Kasmos. Countless local DJs have played Day One, many of whom have since passed away. In conversation, Irvin made it a point to pay respect to departed selectors like Byron Holstine, KC Allen, DJ Cue, and the aforementioned DJ Dizzy.
The concept also attracted its fair share of copycats, according to Irvin. “Several other groups have tried to throw a similar party starting at 7:00 AM against us, even stealing our name sometimes,” he said. “They have all failed.”
Heath would move to Las Vegas in 2008, leaving Irvin and Schawe to helm the annual party on their own. After a few more years of enduring the headaches that came with such a subversive event format, Irvin looked to Schawe to assume full control in 2011. Schawe was up to the task. “Seeing and experiencing Breakfast of Champions in San Francisco was what really inspired me to turn Day One into a much bigger event,” he told EDM.com.
Tony Rodelli, left, and Kenton Schawe A.K.A. Nutmeg, bottom, during the years Hot Mess was active.
The only problem was that Schawe had already committed to hosting a New Years Day event at La Boheme (where he was a resident DJ at the time), but Irvin didn’t want to host his party at a strip club. Hot Mess, as it was billed, ended up taking the place of Day One in 2011, but still with many of the original resident DJs.
Meanwhile, Preston Douglas had begun hosting New Years Day events in friendly (and, at moments, not so friendly) competition with Schawe. Douglas was a longtime promoter and employee of Beta Nightclub who left to open his own techno/house-focused space called NORAD Dance Bar in 2012. He called his own New Years Day party Do It Again, and made a habit of luring Christian Martin to his establishment after Schawe had been the first to book him for the 2012 edition of Hot Mess.
Schawe ended his tenure with La Boheme in 2015, though, and was no longer legally allowed to use the name “Hot Mess” for his New Years Events. Being that Douglas had teamed up with Irvin on a one-off Day One event at NORAD in 2013, it made sense for them to revert back to the brand that brought them all together in the first place. Douglas and Schawe first teamed up on the 2016 edition of Day One at Beauty Bar (which has since rebranded as Your Mom’s House). After that, they relocated to Milk Bar in the basement level of Bar Standard and then expanded to the rest of the venue starting in 2018. Owing to their combined efforts, the event has grown from 600 attendees to roughly 1,000 in recent years.
For all that has changed, the magic that made Day One unique from the beginning is still alive. Even amid a saturated market, tickets to the early-morning dance party practically sell themselves despite the event’s stripped-down production values and emphasis on local talent. As usual, Schawe and Irvin themselves will perform at the 2020 event to an audience of familiar faces in Denver’s underground dance music scene. They've played no small role in bringing up this tight-knit, multigenerational chosen family to know the difference between substance and hype, and the resulting dance floor energy is palpable.
As the final tracks ring out from warehouse party sound systems across the Mile High City on the morning of January 1st, 2020, the party will just be getting started at Day One. Tickets and additional information on this year’s festivities can be found via Eventbrite.
Soul in your eyes Kwekwe Karu fooling around again in Grooverider GR-16 on Apple iPad. Excellent Music creation app. Edited in Lumafusion also on iPad. Most likely the last video of the year.
Skream is preparing for the broadcast of his third BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix.
On Twitter,Skream shared the news that his third Radio 1 Essential Mix is on the way and will be the first of the decade. In addition to it being his return to the BBC's iconic mix series, he unveiled that the upcoming broadcast would mark his first Essential Mix comprised entirely of his own tunes.
The legendary electronic pioneer excited fans with the promise of new music included in the mix. He's been hard at work as of late, as this year saw the release of songs like "Otto's Chant" with Michael Bibi, "Song for Olivia," and his most recent release "Ectogazm." With a wide variety of sound in his library, fans are eager to see what he's cooked up for his return to the legendary radio program.
For more information on BBC Radio 1's Essential Mix and to listen to some of the previous entries in the series, you can visit the site dedicated to the program here. While the website's schedule has not been updated to include Skream's mix, the first one of the year is on January 4th.
Martin Garrix is set to release a remix EP covering each of the songs he dropped in 2019.
Martin Garrixis giving fans one last treat before we close out the decade. He just unveiled that he will be releasing a remix EP on New Year's Eve. The compilation will feature a remix of each of the seven songs he released in 2019.
Dubvision, Dyro, Julian Jordan, and more have lent their talents to the Dutch EDM superstar with their reimaginings of some of his hit singles. Fans are looking forward to revisiting some of the new additions to Garrix's hit-filled library.
Just days ago, he released his collaboration with Matisse & Sadko, "Hold On" ft. Michel Zitron. Fans have also been keeping an eye on the new developments in his lawsuit with Spinnin' Records that were uncovered just before Christmas. While that in and of itself is a lot of news, the EDM world was sent into a frenzy when Zedd teased that a collaboration with the Dutch prodigy might be on the way.
2019 Remixed by Martin Garrix will release on December 31st, 2019. You can pre-save the upcoming compilation album here.
The 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, showed his diverse music taste with his annual best of the year list.
Barack Obama recently shared his favorite songs of the year on his social media accounts. His fan-favorite tradition has been going on for some time now, with his supporters, fans, and artists alike eagerly anticipating his choices.
The former president's end of the year playlist features a diverse selection of tunes spanning different genres and languages. Artists like Lizzo, Kaytranada, Lil Nas X, The Black Keys, and a few others made the jump from his summer list to the end of the year addition, while artists like Frank Ocean, DaBaby, and J. Cole were included for the first time this year. While the list does not feature much electronic music, it's eclectic enough to be enjoyed by listeners of all musical backgrounds.
In addition to his favorite songs of the year, President Obama shared end of the year lists dedicated to his favorite books and movies/TV shows. Both lists can be found on his official Twitter account here.
Beyond Wonderland in Southern California is rolling out their lineup announcement in a unique reveal.
Beyond Wonderland is teasing out their lineup ahead of their Southern California event, set to kick off in March of 2020. The fantasy-themed Insomniac festival has released a set of digital tarot cards indicating who will be playing the event's upcoming edition.
Beyond Wonderland's site has transformed to reveal a deck of "Beyond Cards" allowing fans to shuffle and reveal the event's forthcoming lineup, four artists at a time.
Spoiler alert, if you shuffle the deck enough, you will eventually uncover sixty artists in total. The cards each reveal an individual artist and the date the artist is playing. Unpacking the entire deck, as one Reddit user did, is no small feat. Those curious, however, can find the entire deck of cards revealed below.
The Beyond Wonderland lineup includes Diplo, Alison Wonderland, Alan Walker, and Dillon Francis, just to name a few. It is unknown as to whether these revelations represent the entirety of Beyond Wonderland's lineup, but it's fair to say the Insomniac festival brand is setting a high bar already for the coming year.
Beyond Wonderland Southern California kicks off the weekend of March 20th, 2020.
Here are some of the best and most influential future bass tracks from the last ten years
It’s no exaggeration to say that the last decade has been monumental in bringing electronic music to the fore. Though EDM was once a niche subset of music, it has become the sound of a generation. From iPhone ads to Super Bowl commercials, electronic music is everywhere, and the genre responsible for piquing the ears of normies is none other than future bass.
More heart-thumping than house, and less ear-shredding than dubstep, future bass inhabits a space that renders it accessible to head bangers and pop heads alike. To honor one of the genres credited with bringing EDM to the big time, here are 10 of the top future bass tracks of the EDM decade.
1. “You & Me” - Disclosure (Flume remix)
It would be no exaggeration to call Flume (real name Harley Edward Streten) one of the godfathers of future bass, and if any one track were chosen to illustrate his mark on the genre, it would be his remix of Disclosure’s “You & Me.” With its soft open leading into a crescendo of strings, synths, and scintillating vocals, “You & Me” catapulted the underdog genre into the mainstream, effectively guiding both Streten and EDM as a whole into the spotlight.
2. “Say My Name” - ODESZA
At the start of their career, DJ superstar duo ODESZA (real names Harrison Mills and Clayton Knight) were developing a style essentially unheard of in electronic music. Their songs were an emotional soundscape of both electronic and acoustic sounds, with a strong focus on chopped and twisted vocals. “Say My Name” is no different, with its attractive melody and glitchy-glittery vocals, and it’s one of the main songs that sent ODESZA to stardom.
3. “Innerbloom” - RĆFĆS DU SOL (What So Not remix)
What So Notbegan as a duo project with producers Flume and Emoh Instead (real name Christopher Emerson). In 2015, Flume left the group, and Emerson became the sole DJ behind What So Not. Since then, Emerson has become one of the strongest producers in the electronic trap scene. He brought his signature trap flavor to RĆFĆS DU SOL's house single "Innerbloom," creating an exotic future bass remix full of emotion and candor.
Cashmere Cat and KRANE (real names Magnus HĆøiberg and Zachary Krane) are no strangers to future bass. HĆøiberg is often considered one of the early explorers of the genre, and Krane's rise to prominence came about through trap and future bass singles. Though HĆøiberg's recent releases have strayed from future bass, Krane's remix brought it back to the genre with his strong trap influence.
5. “Roses” - The Chainsmokers
Though The Chainsmokers (real names Alex Pall and Drew Taggart) have seemingly shed their EDM roots, their impact on electronic music’s popularity cannot be denied. At a time when EDM’s popularity was just starting to rise, Pall and Taggart released the infinitely catchy “Roses,” enchanting millions of newbie-listeners across the globe, and bringing them into the EDM fold.
6. “Savage” - Whethan
Only slightly older than future bass itself, Whethan’s (real name Ethan Snoreck) rise to popularity began in 2016 with the release of “Savage” and other singles. “Savage” features the hard-hitting bass lines of Flux Pavilion, the clean vocals of MAX, and a subtle melody that has since become one of Snoreck’s signatures.
7. “Light” - San Holo
Though a relative newcomer to the scene, San Holo (real name Sander van Dijck) has quickly made himself one of the forerunners of future bass. In “Light,” van Dijck skillfully melds bittersweet vocals with sparkly electronic notes, creating a sort of organic warmth so pervasive in his music.
8. “Last to Leave” - Louis the Child
Yet another pair of impressively young producers, their meteoric rise to stardom has been as fast as their time in the industry as been short. Louis the Child (real names Robert Hauldren and Frederic Kennett) have been able to bridge the gap between Gen Z and electronic music. “Last to Leave” features the twinkling highs, emotional vocals, and exotic, warbling synths for which future bass is known.
9. “Alone” - Marshmello
Though his music and persona may be divisive, it’s undeniable that Marshmello (real name Christopher Comstock) has left a supersized mark on the electronic music industry. Arguably the biggest DJ on the planet, Marshmello is allbutinescapable these days. But before he became the pop-EDM social media mega star, Comstock released music, including the hit single “Alone” in 2016. The track built on the popularity of his first single, “Keep It Mello,” and has since seen 1.5 billion plays on YouTube alone.
10. “Feel Good” - Illenium
Illenium (real name Nicholas Miller) is a recent artist who has taken EDM fandom by storm. Creating thousands of adoring super-fans who have dubbed themselves “Illenials,” Miller draws adoring crowds wherever he plays. In 2017, Miller released “Feel Good” in collaboration with Gryffin and Daya (the vocalist of The Chainsmokers’ “Don’t Let Me Down”), a track rife with emotional melodies and lyrics, and organic arrangements of guitar and piano.
These 100 stories defined EDM over the past ten years.
A convergence of trends was responsible for EDM's rise in the early 2010s. Around the time music streaming services began to change the face of the recording industry, the North American festival boom increased the demand for globetrotting DJs. Combined with advances in music production software that shattered the barrier of entry for bedroom producers and yielded exciting, new sounds, these factors made for a perfect storm in which a vibrant chapter in electronic music history could unfold.
As 2020 approaches and the EDM decade draws to a close, the EDM.com staff have collaborated on a timeline of 100 stories that illuminate a widely impactful pop culture phenomenon. Read on for our list of 100 events that defined EDM over the past ten years.
1. Rusko's "Woo Boost" increases mainstream awareness of dubstep
Dubstep came to the forefront of the scene early in the 2010s, and continues to remain innovative and ever-changing. At the helm of this movement was Rusko, who established himself as a godfather of sorts, and is perhaps one of the most well-known producers and DJs within dubstep. Rusko accomplished this with many memorable and influential songs, but perhaps none of them more well received than "Woo Boost." He dropped the single in March ahead of his debut album, O.M.G.!, which came out via Mad Decent in May of 2010. The track was heard everywhere, from clubs to festivals to the soundtrack of the 2011 video game, Saints Row: The Third. Its influence stretched far beyond the early 2010s and even continues to be reworked, remixed, and played out by dubstep DJs to this day.
2. Bassnectar releases "Bass Head"
In March of 2010, Bassnectar released the track “Bass Head” on Timestretch, his third EP. Timestretch would help cement his popularity as the legendary experimental bass producer, and “Bass Head” would become legendary for his diehard fans who have since co-opted the term as their collective moniker. “Bass Head” has since been played over 25 million times on YouTube alone.
3. Hardwell launches Revealed Recordings
Hardwell, one of the patriarchs of the Dutch DJ/producer community, launched his own label called Revealed Recordings in April of 2010. He was the first of many independent superstar DJs to do so as a vehicle for releasing the music of younger talents within the electronic dance music community. His first few signees included artists that would later become titans of the EDM genre like W&W and KSHMR, and the label paved the way for his Hardwell on Air podcast. From releases by Afrojack to Dash Berlin to DubVision and more, Revealed Recordings continues to be a dynamic force in the EDM community and is a major catalyst for many young DJs' careers to date.
4. SoundCloud announces 1 million users
After its founding in 2007, SoundCloud rose from startup beginnings to emerge as a staple in online music sharing and streaming. In May of 2010, SoundCloud announced 1 million users, an accomplishment that arguably marked a shift in the consumption of music as a whole. Because SoundCloud allows users to upload original content, it became a platform for independent artists to perfect their craft as well a hub for music aficionados to explore a variety of microgenres. If it weren’t for SoundCloud, the world may have never seen the meteoric success of mumble rap or discovered now big-time, best-selling EDM artists like Marshmello.
5. Skrillex releases debut EP, My Name Is Skrillex
My Name is Skrillex served as the introduction of a producer who would become one of EDM’s all-time biggest stars. After a successful stint fronting the band From First to Last, lead singer Sonny Moore adopted the stage name Skrillex and released his first EP as a free download whose influence on an era of electronic music producers cannot be denied. The six-track EP would go on to obtain millions of plays and thrust him into the mainstream spotlight.
6. Swedish House Mafia release "One"
In July of 2010, a legendary DJ trio comprised of Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso released their first official single, "One," under the name Swedish House Mafia. The big room instrumental was a worldwide hit, and it became an even bigger one when Pharrell Williams jumped on for the more radio-friendly vocal version, "One (Your Name)." It reigned at the top of the dance music charts in 17 different countries and went gold and platinum in six.
7. Afrojack releases "Take Over Control"
Afrojack’s “Take Over Control” featuring fellow Dutch artist Eva Simons cemented the DJ’s superstar status. The single dominated both dance floors and international radio stations, helping bring about EDM’s mainstream naissance in 2010. More of a commercial spin for Afrojack at the time, the August, 2010 release topped Billboard’s dance charts for six weeks, eventually going platinum in Australia and the U.S. It was the DJ’s first Billboard Hot 100 entry.
8. Duck Sauce release "Barbara Streisand"
In September of 2010, two titans of electronic music - Armand Van Helden and A-Trak - released a critically acclaimed nu disco single that topped the Billboard charts and became one of the first commercial electronic tracks to be nominated for a Grammy Award. Duck Sauce became one of the first acts in years to bring the nu disco sound back into commercial popularity.
9. Skrillex releases "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites"
After turning the heads of tastemakers across the globe with his debut EP, the fast-rising Skrillex followed it up with another one titled Scary Monsters and Nice Spritesin October of 2010. Between its roller coaster ride of a title track and songs like "Kill EVERYBODY" and "With You, Friends (Long Drive)," the effort further demonstrated the dimension of the DJ/producer's production capabilities.
10. Avicii releases "Seek Bromance"
Having started out as an instrumental track shared in the spring of 2010, "Seek Bromance" quickly catapulted a relatively unknown Avicii into mainstream success when it came out the following October. The vocal track reached the top twenty charts in countries across Europe, including his native country of Sweden.
11. deadmau5 releases 4x4=12
While deadmau5 was already a massive force in EDM, his first album of the decade helped make him a household name. 4x4=12 came out in December of 2010 and was his first album to rank in the Billboard charts. It included some of the most iconic songs in his library, perhaps most notably “Raise Your Weapon.” The album and aforementioned track would go on to pick up two Grammy nominations and continue to cement his legacy in the EDM world.
12. Above & Beyond release Group Therapy
The sophomore release by beloved U.K. trio Above & Beyond, Group Therapy cemented the trance group as mainstays in the EDM scene in June of 2011. The trio's most cherished tracks can arguably be found in Group Therapy including "Sun and Moon" and "Thing Called Love."
13. Electric Daisy Carnival moves to Las Vegas
When what was initially Gary Richards and Steve Kool-Aid's brainchild and the soon-to-be mother of raves moved from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, few could have imagined Electric Daisy Carnival would become the megalith of rave culture that is EDC Las Vegas today. Now overseen by Pasquale Rotella and the Insomniac team, the event attracts a whopping 450,000+ people to its flagship event in Las Vegas and countless more to satellite versions in China, Japan, Korea, Orlando, Mexico and other locations.
14. Rothbury Festival becomes Electric Forest
After taking place in 2008 and 2009 as Rothbury Festival, the event went on hiatus in 2010 before returning as Electric Forest in 2011. Initially focused on rock and jam bands, the gathering has become one of the largest electronic music festivals in the United States.
15. Spotify debuts in the U.S.
After securing deals with major labels Universal, EMI, Sony, and Warner Music Group, Stockholm-based music streaming service Spotify launched in the U.S. in July of 2011. The company faced stiff competition from Internet radio giant Pandora, satellite radio company Sirus XM, YouTube’s immense catalog of free music videos, and offerings from on-demand digital music services like Rhapsody, Rdio, MOG, and Grooveshark. With outstanding social features, an ever-growing library of music, a sleek, seamless user experience, and expertly structured subscription options, however, Spotify blew the rest out of the water and brought digital music streaming to unparalleled mainstream appeal. As of October 2019, Spotify had 113 million paying subscribers and bright forecasts as the leader in music consumption - though Apple Music is toe to toe in the ring.
16. NERO release Welcome Reality
Though British producers Dan Stephens and Joe Ray had been releasing music together as NERO as early as 2004, they became a household name in August of 2011 off the success of their debut album, Welcome Reality. The cinematic collection heavily featured singer Alana Watson over '80s-inspired dubstep, drum and bass and electro instrumentals. She later officially joined the group as a vocalist and married Stephens in 2015.
17. Calvin Harris and Rihanna release "We Found Love"
Kicking off a string of pop-EDM collaborations that would come in the years to follow, Calvin Harris teamed up with Rihanna on "We Found Love" in September of 2011 The track went on to top the US Billboard Hot 100 chart for 10 consecutive weeks and became the longest running #1 single of the year.
18. Flux Pavilion releases "I Can't Stop"
Few other singles spoke to dubstep's anthemic potential to the extent that "I Can't Stop" by Flux Pavilion did. Released in October of 2011, the song's memorable vocal and melodic brand of bass wobbles made it a fast favorite among a generation of fans dipping their toes into electronic music's heavier side.
19. Avicii releases "Levels"
In October of 2011, Avicii released "Levels," one of the most acclaimed songs in the history of EDM. Its catchy big room lead synth melody has grown virtually synonymous with EDM itself. The song topped the dance charts in eight countries, went platinum in 11, and multi-platinum in more than half of those regions.
20. Blackmill releases Miracle
In November of 2011, the mysterious SoundCloud sensation Blackmill released Miracle, one of the most serene collections of melodic dubstep in the history of the genre. Some of the album’s tracks - like “Spirit of Life” and “Let It Be” ft. Veela - would help amass the producer millions of plays. While he would release tunes sporadically over the course of the decade (including his late 2019 return), he never once played a live show despite years worth of rumors of future performances.
21. David Guetta and Sia release "Titanium"
Rarely does an emotionally charged dance track manage to make its way into the mainstream, let alone facilitate a solo career breakthrough. As 2011 was coming to a close, David Guetta and Sia accomplished as much with "Titanium." It came out in December as the fourth single from Guetta's album, Nothing But The Beat, and critics praised the track for its impassioned lyrics and soaring vocals. The track peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and catapulted Sia's solo project.
22. Knife Party release "Internet Friends"
Rated by Diplo as one of the best songs of the decade, “Internet Friends” by Knife Party rightfully earned that title. The hard-hitting bass of the song taps into people's underlying, growing fear of the darker side of social media. In the lyrics, a crazed internet stalker threatens a death sentence for being blocked on Facebook. It was released in December of 2011 as the first single from the Australian duo’s debut EP, 100% No Modern Talking.
23. Holy Ship! embarks on its first sailing
In January of 2012, Holy Ship! left port of the modern festival frameworks and took our hearts to sea. In addition to gangbuster lineups, the event's swanky accommodations and baller amenities contributed to it being quickly hailed as one of the most talked-about raves of the decade.
24. Krewella release genre-bending "Killin' It"
Released in January of 2012, "Killin' It" was the breakout single from Krewella's debut EP, Play Hard. It launched the trio into a legendary dance music career, including an International Dance Music Award for Best Breakthrough Artist that same year. With infectious vocals, a heavy dubstep drop, and serious festival main stage firepower, "Killin' It" established Krewella as a fixture of the EDM landscape right from the get-go.
25. Skrillex nominated for five Grammy Awards
In February of 2012 at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards, Skrillex was nominated for five Grammys and took home three: Best Dance Recording for "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites;" Best Dance/Electronica Album for Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites; and Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical for his remix of Benny Benassi and Gary Go's "Cinema." He took home three more in 2013 and two in 2016.
26. Alesso releases "Calling" after Sebastian Ingrosso's mentorship
Sebastian Ingrosso of Swedish House Mafia played a huge role in launching Alesso to stardom. Ingrosso took his young fellow Swede along on the trio's One Last Tour and introduced him to millions of fans. It wasn't until March of 2012 with the release of their iconic collaboration, "Calling," that the whole world discovered what Alesso had to offer.
27. Madonna makes "Molly" joke on Ultra Music Festival main stage
Only the queen of pop could make a drug reference while introducing one of the biggest names in EDM and get away with it. During the 2012 edition of Ultra Music Festival, Madonna took to the main stage to introduce Avicii, but not before asking “How many people in this crowd have seen molly?" Molly is a slang term for MDMA, the active compound in ecstasy. The pop icon also took advantage of the stage time to perform a track off her latest album, aptly titled MDNA. The Molly reference took a life of its own after deadmau5 slammed Madonna on social media. The two eventually buried the hatchet days later.
28. Baauer releases "Harlem Shake"
Bauuer's "Harlem Shake" showed the potency of meme culture and influencers in the social media era. Whatever the formula was, "Harlem Shake" was wonky enough to draw fans in and engage participation from millions who felt compelled to make their own videos to the song. Matt & Kim, the Miami Heat, and the Norwegian Army were just a few of the song's long list of seemingly random supporters who got in on the act. Today, this particular intersection where music meets memes is alive and well on TikTok, but in many ways "Harlem Shake" was the case study that showed the pathway for artists to rise by becoming memes even existed.
29. Paris Hilton debuts as a DJ
In June of 2012, socialite Paris Hilton made her DJ debut at Pop Music Festival in Brazil. When the reality TV star donned her jewel-encrusted headphones on a festival stage for the first time, her performance was not without its share of technical setbacks or harsh criticism. By the end of the decade, however, Hilton had conquered Ibiza with her Foam and Diamonds residency at Amnesia nightclub, and was named Forbes' richest DJ in 2016.
30. Swedish House Mafia announce breakup
Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso come together to form Swedish House Mafia even before the decade began. After creating history together, the trio decided to focus on their individual careers and call it a day in June of 2012, at which time they announced their One Last Tour. The 52-date world tour culminated with their closing performance at Ultra Music Festival in Miami in March of 2013. Ironically, the same festival was also where the super-trio would make their comeback.
31. Psy uploads music video for "Gangnam Style"
Before 2012, the only products widely known in America from Korea were Kia cars, Samsung cell phones, and a Demilitarized zone at the 38th parallel between North and South Korea. That all changed when popular K-Pop artist “Psy” released “Gangnam Style” in July of 2012. The song not only topped the music charts in over 30 countries worldwide, but became a symbol of Korea’s changing culture and capitalist rise. The song’s music video became the first video ever to reach over a billion views on YouTube, and was even recognized by President Barack Obama in 2013 as a symbol for America’s new obsession with Korean culture.
32. Robert Sillerman's SFX Entertainment spurs "the EDM Arms Race"
Entertainment mogul Robert Sillerman shared plans for an enterprise that would come to symbolize the hubris around EDM in the early years of its mainstream explosion. Borrowing the name of a company he previously founded and sold to Clear Channel, who then rebranded it as Live Nation, he launched SFX Entertainment, a conglomerate that would acquire electronic music brands from across the globe. In what Billboard dubbed "the EDM arms race" in a September, 2012 cover story, he pledged to invest $1 billion into the industry annually.
33. Disclosure and Sam Smith release "Latch"
Disclosure's Guy and Howard Lawrence championed a sophisticated, house-inspired sound that appealed to the first wave of EDM fans to outgrow the commercial sounds of the main stage. "Latch" featuring Sam Smith demonstrated the broad appeal of such a style. The lead single of the English duo's 2013 debut album, Settle, it went on to receive radio play across the globe in the years to come.
34. Swedish House Mafia release "Don't You Worry Child" ft. John Martin
Shortly after announcing their final tour, Swedish House Mafia shared "Don't You Worry Child" featuring John Martin as a farewell single of sorts. To date the song is their highest performer in the U.S., reaching #6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
35. Calvin Harris releases 18 Months
The definitive Calvin Harris album 18 Months saw the Scottish producer shift to a new sound in October of 2012, earning him his second consecutive #1 album on the UK Charts. In fact, nine tracks managed to crack the top 10, making 18 Months the first album in history to do so. Prominent singles include "We Found Love" featuring Rihanna, "I Need Your Love" featuring Ellie Goulding, "Thinking About You" featuring Ayah Marar, "Bounce" featuring Kelis, and "Feel So Close." The songs "Let's Go" featuring Ne-Yo and "Sweet Nothing" featuring Florence Welch were nominated for Best Dance Recording at the 55th and 56th Grammy Awards, respectively.
36. Zedd releases debut album, Clarity
In October of 2012, Zedd released his debut studio album, Clarity, and became a household name in the music industry. From "Spectrum" featuring Matthew Koma to "Stay The Night" with Hayley Williams, the album included many of Zedd's popular hits. To this day, the title track is still his most successful single.
37. Flume releases debut self-titled album
A release that played no small role in the popularization of the future bass genre was Flume's self-titled debut album. After it arrived by way of Future Classic in November of 2012, songs like "Holdin On" featuring Otis Redding, "Left Alone" featuring Chet Faker, and "Insane" featuring Moon Holiday introduced a template for sounds that would become an indispensable facet of the EDM landscape.
38. ODESZA reinvent the live experience of EDM
With a stage setup that includes varying combinations of live controllers, instrumentalists and other performers, ODESZA broke the CDJs-and-mixer mold common to mainstream EDM acts. Considering that they now sell out massive, outdoor venues and even launched their own festival, it's hard to believe that their first-ever show in November of 2012 took place at a 450-person capacity venue.
39. Avicii plays "Wake Me Up" at Ultra 2013 to mixed reactions
Avicii's "Wake Me Up" was recently named one of Spotify's Top 50 Most Streamed Songs of the Decade. However, the DJ/producer's now biggest hit featuring Aloe Blacc was not necessarily loved at first listen. Avicii first debuted the song during his set at Ultra Music Festival in March of 2013, and it immediately caused a stir among attendees and those watching via live stream at home. For those who need a refresher, "Wake Me Up" was the first dance song to incorporate any sort of country music influence and the bold new idea evidently did not sit well with fans in the immediate aftermath.
40. Daft Punk return with Random Access Memories
In the midst of EDM's rapid climb in mainstream popularity, legendary French duo Daft Punk revisited classic electronic music influences in Random Access Memories. Released in May of 2013, the album included collaborations with '70s disco stalwarts like Giorgio Moroder and Nile Rodgers of Chic in addition to contemporary figures like Pharrell Williams.
41. Martin Garrix revolutionizes big room with "Animals"
In June of 2013, Martin Garrix (real name Martijn Garritsen) released his runaway hit single, “Animals." He was 17 when it came out, making him the youngest artist to put out a track on Spinnin' Records at the time. The song was a massive commercial success, which helped launch Garritsen’s career as one of the most acclaimed EDM DJs in the world. “Animals” remains one of the most popular big room tracks of all time.
42. Kaskade releases Atmosphere
Having already started off the decade strong with two studio albums, Kaskade released Atmosphere in September of 2013. Debuting at #16 on the Billboard 200 charts, the effort built on the success of his previous records, relying on uplifting lyrics alongside big room beats. "Last Chance," "No One Knows Who We Are," "Why Ask Why," and "Something Something" stand out as perfect examples. The title track, which features vocals by Kaskade himself, was nominated for Best Dance Recording at the 2014 Grammy Awards.
43. TomorrowWorld debuts outside Atlanta, Georgia
In September of 2013, SFX Entertainment decided to bring a taste of famous Belgian music festival Tomorrowland to the United States. The American spin-off, TomorrowWorld, took place in Chattahoochee Hills near Atlanta, Georgia, due to its resemblance to Boom, Belgium. While many feared the festival would flop, it’s inaugural year was a massive success as it draw over 140,000 attendees with 300 artists performing across eight stages.
44. DJ Snake and Lil Jon release "Turn Down for What"
French producer DJ Snake and rapper Lil Jon (real names William Grigahcine and Jonathan Smith, respectively) released their collaboration, “Turn Down For What,” in December of 2013. It quickly achieved commercial and viral success, culminating in twelve platinum certifications in North America alone.
45. Oliver Heldens popularizes future house with "Gecko"
Having started off 2013 as a new Spinnin' Records signee, Oliver Heldens found himself on the verge of becoming the next big name in EDM with the December release of "Gecko." The instrumental future house track caught the attention of fellow Dutch DJ Tiƫsto, who signed it to his label, Musical Freedom. A vocal version titled "Gecko (Overdrive)" was released a few months later, propelling Heldens to superstardom.
46. The Chainsmokers release "#SELFIE"
When The Chainsmokers' "#SELFIE" debuted in 2013, it took over the airwaves. It was originally released as a free download by the up-and-coming duo. It grabbed Steve Aoki's label, Dim Mak's attention, who then released the track at the beginning of 2014. The tongue-in-cheek song would be written off as a gimmick by more critical fans, although the duo would go on to prove themselves a permanent fixture of EDM in the years to follow.
47. Tiƫsto explains why he left trance
Easily one of the biggest names in EDM, Tiƫsto has garnered a massive following since the late 1990s. His current sound is nothing like the groundbreaking trance music that propelled him to fame, however. In a 2014 DJ Magvideo interview, the Dutch DJ and producer shed light on why he parted ways with trance. "Some of the old trance guys still have a following, but it doesn't feel like anybody really cares," he said. "It's nice to be in touch with the 16 to 18-year-old kids who are coming up producing house music. They see me as a godfather, and it's really cool to be in touch with them."
48. ZHU releases "Faded," inspiring a wave of anonymous artist projects
“Faded” was the first single off ZHU’s debut EP, The Nightday, and it catapulted the mysterious musician to stardom as it was supported by Pete Tong and gained massive commercial success. Since its release in April of 2014, ZHU has proven the marketing appeal of anonymous artist projects, collaborating with the likes of Skrillex, NERO and Tame Impala, and performing at festivals such as Coachella and Lollapalooza.
49. Seven Lions raises the bar on melodic dubstep with Worlds Apart
Seven Lions released his second EP titled Worlds Apart in April of 2014. The melodic dubstep mastermind crafted five breathtaking tracks with vocalists including Ellie Goulding, Kerli, and Tove Lo. The EP was well received, landing a #2 spot on Billboard's Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart the same year.
50. Tomorrowland expands to two weekends
In 2014, Tomorrowland dominated the electronic music festival scene as the biggest festival of its kind in the world. In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the Belgian festival expanded to two weekends for the first time. Although it reverted back to one weekend after the July, 2014 event, the festival returned to a two-weekend format in 2017.
51. Porter Robinson shifts his style with Worlds
Following the release of his 2011 EP, Spitfire, Porter Robinson completely revamped his style to bring his debut studio-length album, Worlds, to life. This 12-track album included some of his most famous songs, like “Sad Machine” and “Divinity,” giving Robinson worldwide recognition, a Billboard #1 in the Top Dance/Electronic Albums category, and a 2014 tour of the effort's namesake.
52. Kris Trindl sues Krewella after breakup
Despite matching tattoos and a shared Chicago living space, Krewella members Kris Trindl and sisters Jahan and Yasmine Yousef found themselves at the center of a lawsuit that shook the EDM world to its core. Trindl sued the sisters for $5 million in 2014 for breaching oral contracts and conspiring to kick him out of the group in order to keep more money for themselves. The lawsuit was a grave reminder that the partying that often accompanies a full-time touring schedule comes at a cost: Trindl's rehab stints and alcoholism were a main catalyst for the breakup. Trindl was the main producer of the group while Jahan and Yasmine were responsible for songwriting. He eventually settled with the duo in 2015, and they releasd "Say Goodbye," a single released shortly after the split with references to Trindl, and a tip to future electronic groups to seal all business deals with paper and a signature instead of tattoo ink.
53. Jack Ć releases "Take Ć There"
In 2013, notorious DJ/producers Skrillex and Diplo came together to form Jack Ć. Their September, 2014 debut single, "Take Ć There," features Canadian singer, Kiesza. Released on their own labels, OWSLA and Mad Decent, the full-length album titled Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack Ć would follow the next year.
54. Marshmello debuts with "WaVeZ"
With a sample from Uncle Luke's legendary "I Wanna Rock" and a fresh dose of future bass, anonymous EDM powerhouse Marshmello burst onto the scene in March of, 2015 with "WaVeZ," which he uploaded to Soundcloud. Using a fast-paced beat and quick chord progressions, "WaVeZ" was the first glimpse into Marshmello's unique, upbeat production style that would grow into a colorful, arena-filling empire. The masked producer followed up the single in 2016 with his debut album, Joytime, and the rest is history.
55. Jack Ć and Justin Bieber release "Where Are Ć Now"
An overt trend that comes to mind relative to EDM, especially in the latter half of the decade, is mainstream artists taking an active interest in the phenomenon. It's hard to believe that just a few years ago Skrillex, Diplo, and Justin Bieber ushered in a broader interest in dance music in such a big way. At the time Jack Ć was a fledgeling project, but it had massive hype around it. Needless to say, Skrillex and Diplo were pressured to deliver something memorable. When the big reveal that Justin Bieber would be joining the two for a single called "Where Are Ć Now," reactions were mixed. Bieber himself was coming out of a rough patch personally and professionally and was seen as a polarizing presence in the public eye. Diplo later stated he was warned that working with Bieber could end his career. Skrillex and Diplo have not been known to back down from crazy ideas, however, and like clockwork they won over the skeptics and then some with what became the biggest dance music track to hit the radio at the time.
56. Major Lazer and DJ Snake release "Lean On"
Major Lazer and DJ Snake came together to work on "Lean On" which features vocals by MĆ. The four-on-the-floor track went on to become a huge commercial hit and one of the best-selling singles of all time. The official music video which was shot in Maharashtra, India, also garnered them billions of hits owing to the massive popularity of the song and its signature hook step.
57. CRSSD Festival creates the boutique festival blueprint
Midway through the EDM decade, festivalgoers began to seek out more curated gatherings. San Diego's CRSSD Festival disrupted the market by curating and techno/house-focused experience in its biannual spring and fall editions, proving the viability of the boutique festival model in the process.
58. Alison Wonderland releases Run
Home to some of her most unforgettable tracks including “U Don’t Know,” “I Want U,” and its title track, Alison Wonderland’s debut album, Run, made her a force to be reckoned with. The 12-track effort topped both Australian and American charts, earning her an ARIA Music Award and pushing forward a wildly successful career.
59. Ultra debuts RESISTANCE brand, signaling house and techno's resurgence
Sixteen years after its 1999 debut in Miami Beach, Ultra Music Festival made a pivotal change in programming by adding the new RESISTANCE stage to its roster. Focusing on house and techno, the addition of RESISTANCE signified a barometic change in the electronic dance music industry as "underground" genres began to develop more widespread global appeal. Today, RESISTANCE has become one of Ultra's most recognized event brands.
60. Martin Garrix Sues Spinnin' Records
Martin Garrix's music topped more and more EDM charts around the world in 2015. However, with more and more producers under legal age getting signed by major dance labels and management teams, many labels opted to take advantage their financial positions within the EDM industry by claiming the copyrights to any and all master records produced under brand. This all changed when the 18-year-old Dutchman terminated his management contract with Spinnin’ Records and sued his former management team for violation of copyright, claiming that he was told “false and misleading” information regarding his right to own the copyrights of his own master recordings when signing with the label. Both parties settled and Garrix was transferred ownership of all master recordings under his name prior to his 18th birthday, which came as a massive win for DJs everywhere who had been signed to larger EDM labels.
61. TomorrowWorld transportation breakdowns lead to the festival's demise
TomorrowWorld, the American spin-off of Belgium’s mega festival Tomorrowland, initially saw success and praise; however, its popularity and lifespan were short lived. For the third and final edition in 2015, severe rain and flooding rendered the festival grounds unusable and inaccessible. Attendees were required to take shelter in their flooded campgrounds, or hike several miles to where they could be picked up. TomorrowWorld would not return, and its failings foreshadowed the collapse of SFX Entertainment the following year.
62. Inaugural Dirtybird Campout introduces summer camp-themed festival concept
When Claude VonStroke dreamt up the idea of Dirtybird’s signature summer camp-themed festival - which debuted in October of 2015 - the house music world and the festival industry rubbernecked. Now near Modesto, the games and activities at Dirtybird Campout give attendees as much to rave about as its stacked lineups.
63. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike declared DJ Mag #1 amid voter controversy
Belgian DJ and producer duo Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike saw huge popularity within the decade, which allowed them to secure the #1 spot on the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs poll in October of 2015. It was revealed, however, that a portion of their votes came from apparent ground campaigns in which employees of the superstar DJs approached fans at events and festivals and talked them into voting for the duo. This sparked a strong backlash from DJ peers and fans alike, and called into question the credibility of DJ Mag's polls.
64. Dreamstate sparks trance resurgence in North America
In November of 2015, trance fans from around the world congregated in San Bernardino, California for the first-ever all-trance festival in North America, Dreamstate. The brainchild of Insomniac, Dreamstate is a celebration of the genre, and has been credited for sparking the trance resurgence in North America. Throughout its five-year history, Dreamstate has expanded to host events in San Francisco, Melbourne, London, New York, and Poland.
65. Rezz releases debut album, The Silence Is Deafening
While underground sensation Rezz was already making serious waves a year prior, the January, 2016 release of her second EP, The Silence is Deafening, instantly made her one of bass music’s most exciting acts. Marking her first of several releases on deadmau5’ mau5trap label, tracks like “Edge” and “Delusion” would help the young artist grow her cult and become a headline act.
66. SFX Entertainment declares chapter 11 bankruptcy
Largely due to mismanagement of the numerous assets it acquired during "the EDM arms race," SFX Entertainment declared chapter 11 bankruptcy in February of 2016. The conglomerate's plummeting stock value leading up to the decision arguably contributed to the EDM industry's first contraction of the decade. The company would later rebrand as LiveStyle with Robert Sillerman no longer serving as CEO.
67. Eric Prydz releases long-awaited debut album, Opus
Swedish progressive house producer Eric Prydz released his debut album in February of 2016. The 19-track effort included old singles along with new tracks and unreleased IDs that were highly ought after in his live performances. Opus was in the works for 10 years, beautifully showcasing the producer's creative vision over time.
68. Major Lazer play historic concert in Cuba
Major Lazer has long been an international ambassador on the EDM scene, dancehall and other eclectic styles into mainstream awareness. The group took diplomacy a step further by being the first major international act to play in Cuba since Washington and Havana restored relations. The free concert was held in front of the U.S. Embassy in Havana.
69. Avicii quits touring
After a handful of hospitalizations and health scares, Avicii took to social media to write an open letter to his fans in 2016 announcing his retirement from live events and touring. In the heartfelt letter, he explained how the constant stress was taking a toll on him and he had to make the decision to quit touring as he had "too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist."
70. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan Declares Week of Movement "Detroit Techno Week"
Since 2000, Memorial Day Weekend in Detroit has become synonymous with techno. In 2016, Detroit mayor Mike Duggan made it official by declaring May 23rd through May 30th as the first ever Detroit Techno Week. "Detroit becomes a tourist destination for music lovers," Duggan wrote in the first-ever certificate of recognition for Detroit Techno Week. "I encourage all to come out and celebrate the festivities, as it creates local and international awareness of Detroit's rising creative culture."
71. Flume releases Skin LP
Released via Future Classic, Flume’s second album, Skin, gained international popularity and further defined the sound for which we now know the Australian producer. The effort won many awards, including both a Grammy and an ARIA with some of its most popular tracks being “Never Be Like You,” “Say It,” and “Smoke & Retribution.”
72. The Chainsmokers release career-defining single, "Closer" ft. Halsey
Before releasing “Closer” featuring Halsey, The Chainsmokers already had a string of hit songs, like “Don’t Let Me Down,” “Roses,” and the notorious “#SELFIE.” But “Closer,” which came out in July of 2016, was arguably an unmatched release. It was The Chainsmokers' first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, taking the top spot for 12 consecutive weeks, and remaining in the top five for 26 consecutive weeks. From the radio to retail stores to club floors and festival stages, “Closer” was heard everywhere at its peak. Not only that, but it marked The Chainsmokers transition to a pop-EDM act, an identity they continue to maintain today.
73. Porter Robinson and Madeon release "Shelter"
In August of 2016, Porter Robinson and Madeon took the world on an emotional journey with their powerful collaboration, "Shelter." Accompanied by a heartfelt animated short film about a girl who lives alone in a world of her own making, the track became huge enough to call for a worldwide tour of the same name.
74. Daft Punk and The Weeknd release "Starboy"
On November 24, 2016, The Weeknd (real name Abel Tesfaye) released his 18-track, third studio album, Starboy, via Republic Records. The title track was a moody, synth-heavy collaborative hit alongside masked French duo Daft Punk. After spending 8 weeks at #2, the single climbed to the #1 spot on Billboard’s Top 100, making it Daft Punk’s first #1 single.
75. Fyre Festival shows promoters the world over what not to do
Selling tickets for up to $100,000 apiece, Fyre Festival marketed itself as an “immersive music festival.” The “Coachella in the Caribbean” VIP experience was promoted by supermodels like Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, and Hailey Baldwin as an exclusive party for wealthy Instagram influencers. Attendees were promised luxury accommodation on an island in the Bahamas, a party with celebrities, and “the best in food, art, music and adventure.” Upon arriving at the event in April of 2017, however, they were greeted by disaster relief tents with rain-soaked mattresses, cold cheese sandwiches in foam containers, and the absence of music headliners like Pusha T, Tyga, Migos, and Blink-182. Images and videos from Fyre Festival went viral, spawning documentaries from online media giants Hulu and Netflix. Billy McFarland, the lead festival organizer, was eventually sentenced to six years in prison and ordered to pay over $26 million to investors and customers he defrauded. Talk about a dumpster fire.
76. Gary Richards pushed out of HARD Events
Gary Richards, better known as DESTRUCTO, was forced to resign from HARD Events - the production company he founded ten years prior - in August of 2017. He went on to partner with LiveStyle and launch a new event brand called AMFAMFAMF.
77. SoundCloud founders resign after company secures emergency funding
Soundcloud, well known for providing rising music producers with a place to share their music, barely stayed afloat in 2017. CEO Alex Ljung was replaced by former Vimeo CEO Kerry Trainor after the struggling music service managed to secure an emergency deal of about $170 million in funding.
78. Excision debuts bass music festival Lost Lands
Since the beginning of the decade, Excision has released some of the biggest tunes in dubstep while hitting the road with mind-blowing production unlike anything on the market. His next move, however, would make him one of, if not the most important figures in modern-day bass music. With the creation of his very own festival, Lost Lands, Excision gave bass music fans a gathering where their favorite music would be displayed prominently, not relegated to side stages. It would grow into the world’s premier bass music event and host performances from both the genre’s biggest names as well as up-and-coming and under-the-radar talent.
79. Rusko announces he's cancer free
In May of 2017, the EDM community was in a vulnerable state after learning that bass legend Rusko had been diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer. Mercer canceled all upcoming shows at the time to focus on healing and intensive chemotherapy sessions. In October of 2017, the dubstep icon happily announced he was 100% cancer free and would continue working on music.
80. Datsik accused of sexual assault by multiple women
In March of 2018, a mirror was held up to the industry when several reports of sexual assault against Datsik came to light. With his known reputation for forcing himself on unconsenting or inebriated fans with lanyards marked ‘Tulsa’ (‘A Slut’ when viewed in a mirror), and a disposition colored with tweeted rape jokes, Beetle became a cautionary tale for toxic masculinity complete with an inevitable career collapse that subsequently followed.
81. Swedish House Mafia reunite at Ultra Music Festival
During the 2018 edition of Ultra Music Festival, Swedish House Mafia reunited after a five year hiatus. While fans around the world speculated their return would happen at Ultra earlier in the year, the hype around their reunion was hardly diminished. Fans an artists alike watched in awe as the iconic group took to the stage to play out their biggest hits. They later embarked on their Save The World Reunion Tour in 2019 - although overhyped announcements and unexpected cancellations ultimately alienated their fans.
82. Avicii found dead in Muscat, Oman
April 20th, 2018, will be a day etched in EDM history as one of the most tragic yet. The industry lost legendary DJ/producer Avicii well before his time. The 28-year-old "Levels" hitmaker took his life in Muscat, Oman, which came as a rude wake up call to the music industry to focus on mental health and address the pressures that accompany success in the music industry. His parents took it upon themselves to help those in need by launching the Tim Bergling Foundation to spread awareness about mental health and suicide prevention the following year.
83. EDC Las Vegas moves to May
After years of feedback from the community, Insomniac Founder Pasquale Rotella decided to move EDC Las Vegas from the blistering June months to a much cooler May. The date change allowed for the first-ever year of camping in 2018, as well as earlier gate openings. Following this date change, zero deaths tied to the festival have been reported. The lower temperatures have reduced the number of heat-related medical issues and made the overall experience more comfortable.
84. FISHER takes tech house to the top with the release of "Losing It"
Tech house was once far from what one might associate with mainstream music. Be that as it may, Australian surfer-turned untamed DJ FISHER broke new ground and brought the genre to listeners’ ears far and wide with his smashing single, “Losing It.” Released in July of 2018, the air-horn powered instrumental track made waves long before its official release: igniting a viral video when he debuted it at his Coachella DoLab set and earning the attention of every major label following its release. Once it came out, “Losing It” received 100,000-plus streams a day, festival main stage plays from major DJs like Hardwell, Alison Wonderland and TiĆ«sto, 21 weeks on top of the Beatport charts, and a spot on Shazam’s Global Chart. Not only that, but it earned a Grammy nomination in the Best Dance Recording category. Beyond launching FISHER to headliner status, the track served as a testament that pop-EDM crossovers aren’t the only way to garner mainstream appeal. If done right, club-focused genres like tech house can ascend from the underground.
Salvatore Ganacci became one of the decade's most meme-worthy DJs by delivering a set on Tomorrowland's 2018 main stage that went viral on social media. His hilarious antics drew both criticism and laughs, sparking debate over whether he was giving EDM a bad image or simply being entertaining.
86. Hardwell announces indefinite break from touring
Few names are as synonymous with big room and the rise of EDM as Hardwell. The Dutch DJ/producer has won numerous music awards over the years - most notably taking the top spot on the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list in 2013 and 2014 - and headlined major festivals like Ultra and Tomorrowland. In September of 2018, the dance music titan revealed on social media that he will take an indefinite break from live shows, citing the compounding toll of a grueling, relentless touring schedule and a desire to spend more time with his friends and family. However, Hardwell will continue to make music in his time off, and stated, "my sincerest hope is that we will be able to continue this journey together. I want to come back stronger than ever, but for now, I’m just going to be me for a while."
87. Shaq plays surprise set at Lost Lands 2018
At the second iteration of Excision’s Lost Lands, fans were stunned to see the four-time NBA Champion Shaquille O’Neal take the stage as the festival’s special guest performer. The basketball legend would throw down a massively heavy set and become dubstep’s biggest supporter… literally. While it wasn’t his first DJ appearance, it signified his commitment to EDM’s heaviest subgenre to the delight of producers and fans alike.
88. Martin Garrix Voted DJ Mag #1 three years in a row
Regarded as the it-list for electronic music acts, the Top 100 DJ's List has grown to become highly influential despite its criticisms. So it should be applauded when an artist reaches the top spot, not once, not twice, but three times consecutively. In 2016 Martin Garrix became the youngest DJ to take the top spot, retaining it in 2017 and again in 2018. He is only the third artist to accomplish that feat, behind fellow Dutchmen Armin van Buuren and Tiƫsto.
89. Marshmello hosts in-game Fortnite concert
Love him, or hate him, Marshmello gave us a glimpse of the future of gaming and music when he performed for over 10 million people at a virtual concert in Fortnite in February, 2019. The concert was a huge win for both Fortnite, who saw their highest number of concurrent players at once, and Marshmello, whose YouTube channel gained 100 million views in one week from the event. The idea of in-game concerts has been explored before, but nothing to this caliber.
90. Spotify becomes profitable at long last
In February of 2019, Spotify reported a $107 million dollar net positive in its fourth quarter earnings - the first time the company turned an operating profit. The news signaled healthy growth in the service's registered active users, including Spotify Premium subscribers, and showed positive results in emerging regions like Latin America. As a leader in the music streaming industry, Spotify’s profitability could indicate a boom for other platforms as well. It was announced at the end of fiscal year 2019 that Spotify’s current CFO, Barry McCarthy, will step down and be replaced by Paul Vogel, Spotify’s VP of FP&A, Treasury and Investor Relations.
91. Burning Man distances event from festivals with "Cultural Course Correcting" article
Just before tickets went on-sale for Burning Man in February of 2019, CEO Marian Goodell wrote an impassioned letter to Burners airing a number of concerns about exclusive ridership on mutant vehicles, influencers, advertisements and commodification of Black Rock City culture. Continuing the Project Citizenship initiative that was launched in 2017, the article outlined a plan to refocus on restoring community around Burning Man’s 10 Principles with the aim of distancing the event from festivals, raves or parties.
92. The Prodigy frontman Keith Flint passes away
On March 4th, 2019, the dance music community lost an icon. Keith Flint, lead singer of big beat band The Prodigy, was found dead in his home at Essex, England, at the age of 49. Flint’s tragic death was ruled a suicide as a result of hanging. Bandmates Liam Howlett and Maxim recalled Flint as “a true pioneer, innovator and legend.” Flint led The Prodigy to their iconic status: bringing dance music to the mainstream in the U.S, pioneering the big beat genre, and performing vocals on hit singles “Firestarter,” “Breathe,” “Baby’s Got A Temper,” and “Smack My Bitch Up” in the 1990s. With his electric, charismatic personality, Flint was the face of The Prodigy and an inspiration to many of today’s dance music stars.
93. Ultra hosts one-off Virginia Key event after Bayfront Park ousting
The Miami City Commission heard downtown residents’ pains of excessive noise, traffic, crowds, and lengthy, disruptive construction, denying Ultra Music Festival to remain in Bayfront Park in 2019. So, the festival moved to the island of Virginia Key for its 2019 edition. However, the event was far from smooth. With only one road in and out of the island, there were severe logistical and transport issues affecting both residents and festival attendees, as well as subsequent research that the festival adversely affected local wildlife. Upon the disapproval of local officials and residents, Ultra's organizers voluntarily terminated their contract. However, 2020 looks promising, as Ultra agreed on new terms with Miami officials – including higher fees for the city and shorter occupation – to return to their home at Bayfront Park.
94. Diplo inaugurates Thomas Wesley alias with "So Long"
In April of 2019, Diplo turned heads throughout the music industry when he unveiled a country-inspired side project called Thomas Wesley. His debut release under the alias was "So Long" featuring Cam, which received an official music video the following summer.
95. Insomniac acquires Space, Okeechobee in Floridian conquest
Throughout the decade, Insomniac strengthened its name in the EDM scene as it expanded to countless cities across the world. In two major 2019 announcements, the Los Angeles-based event company revealed its partnership with Soundslinger for the Return of the multi-genre Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival. Alongside the festival, CEO Pasquale Rotella announced a majority stake acuisition of Club Space in Miami, further anchoring Insomniac in the Sunshine State.
96. NOISIĪ announce breakup
In September of 2019, legendary DJ/producer trio NOISIĪ announced their split at the end of 2020, along with the release of new music and a number of last DJ shows. In a lengthy letter to fans, the artists explained that there is no bad blood between them, and that they will continue to make music together one way or another - but not under the NOISIĪ moniker. The trio have been together for almost 20 years.
97. Illenium plays Madison Square Garden
In September of 2019, Illenium did what most artists can only dream of: he played to a full house at New York’s esteemed Madison Square Garden. Fans were treated to Miller’s brand new live show, a rock band style performance with Said The Sky on piano, Dabin on guitar, Day on drums, and Illenium himself bouncing between a mixer, MIDI keyboard and drums, and an electric guitar. The arena was filled with the sounds of Illenium’s latest album ASCEND, along with bass-heavy edits of singles from his previous albums. Dazzling lights, sharp lasers, and emphatic visuals accompanied the music for a stellar audiovisual experience, marking the apex of Illenium's meteoric rise to fame.
98. "GRiZtronics" hits #1 on TikTok
A few months after GRiZ and Subtronics' collaboration, "GRiZtronics," began to heavily invade the festival circuit, the hard-hitting, bass-centric track found it's way onto TikTok. Eventually, it became the number one track on the site. Undoubtedly, its success on Tik Tok was unprecedented. "GRiZtronics" blew up in the same way that "Old Town Road" by Lil Nas X did, defying all odds by competing in a market heavily dominated by pop music.
99. Datsik returns with video statement
The world thought they had seen the last of Datsik, but in November 2019 he issued a video statement in a clumsy attempt to spin the ever-growing stack of sexual assault reports against him. The video didn’t apologize to or acknowledge his victims. Instead, it claimed victimhood for Datsik - which backfired, putting the last few nails in the coffin of his career as wave after wave of artists and fans in dance music united in solidarity against him.
100. SFX Entertainment founder Robert Sillerman passes away
Robert F. X. Sillerman died on November 24th, 2019 at the age of 71. The American businessman, who was both heralded for his heavy investment in the EDM industry through his SFX Entertainment venture in 2012 and subsequently demonized following the organization's chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2016, is still considered by many to be a controversial figure in dance music history.
Edited by John Cameron.
Contributions by Brian Baker, Cameron Sunkel, Devin Culham, Elsa Lee, Graham Berry, Jonathan Sherman, Kierstin Rounsefell, Konstantinos Karakoulis, Lennon Chaik, Liz Kraker, LJ Hilberath, Marilyn Hernandez, Melody Siganporia, Nick Yopko, Niko Sani, Nisha Stickles, Phil Scilippa, Rachel Kupfer, Rachel Wood, Saad Masood, Sarah Kocur, and Ulises Vargas.
