What if you could dance all night, connect deeply with others and wake up feeling better than ever? A new wave of wellness-focused dance parties is proving you can. 

As the electronic dance music scene continues to be stereotyped by wild raves and an inextricable link to substance use, more artists now shifting their focus toward wellness. While some major DJs like Kaskade, ILLENIUM and Chris Lake have chosen a sober lifestyle, others are incorporating wellness practices to find balance. Chart-topping dance music acts like RÜFÜS DU SOL, Diplo, Felix Jaehn and Steve Aoki consistently incorporate wellness routines that prioritize their mental and physical health to avoid burnout.

This cultural shift is becoming more prevalent within the fan community as well. Wellness-focused dance collectives are emerging and providing alcohol-free, high-energy spaces where people can connect on a deeper level.

With the theme of connection at their bedrock, these collectives curate alcohol-free spaces at the intersection of dance music and mindfulness. We spoke with three, Daybreaker, Superbloom and The Oracle Project, who are at the forefront of this movement.

A new kind of party

Daybreaker, a pioneer in the wellness rave scene, hosts morning dance parties that begin with yoga and flow into high-energy dancing before concluding with meditation. Similarly, Superbloom promotes community through free- and donation-based classes in parks and beaches, blending lively house music with a focus on wellness.

The team behind The Oracle Project, a more recent group, curates reflective experiences that incorporate mindfulness practices followed by music and dancing. Organizers also provide conversation cards to foster meaningful interactions.

The shift from partying to wellness

Most of the individuals behind these collectives have personal stories driving them to innovate the movement. Lauren Brenc, founder of The Oracle Project, says her own experiences in nightlife shaped her decision to move away from alcohol. Having once worked as a bartender, she eventually realized she could no longer sustain that lifestyle.

“There was a part of me that didn’t want to give up the fun and excitement of going out,” Brenc explains. “But I didn’t want it to revolve around something that was making me sick and wasn’t fueling deep connection.” 

Andre Herd of Daybreaker also saw a disconnect between his own values and the traditional nightlife scene in which he worked. As someone who has managed artists and worked in the music industry, Herd had seen how prevalent alcohol was at events. When he began working at Daybreaker in his early 20s, the role was a revelation.

“When I was younger, I used to go out a lot and found myself drinking at every party or social event, just to feel like I could have a good time,” recalls Herd, who said he eventually started working with Daybreaker and gave up alcohol altogether. “It was so aligned with who I am at my core. It gave me the space to let loose without needing alcohol. In 2014, there weren’t many events like it, and Daybreaker really started a trend.”

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Courtney Miller and Brandon Darnell, co-founders of Superbloom, were deeply immersed in wellness long before launching their collective. The former, a lifelong athlete, found synergy with the latter’s love of house music, and together they co-founded Superbloom to share their passion for health and music with their communities.

A deeper fulfillment

What makes these events stand out is the deeper sense of fulfillment they offer. For Superbloom, the focus is on creating spaces where people can cultivate relationships—both with themselves and others—in “vibrant dancefloors and areas where people can get comfortable and sit down and relax,” according to Darnell.

“It creates this really conducive environment for self-expression and for authentic and deep connection,” she says.

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At The Oracle Project’s events, Brenc sees attendees making profound, lasting bonds.

“I hear so many stories of people falling in love, starting businesses together, or becoming close friends very quickly,” she says. “The connections formed are so genuine.”

Herd agrees, noting that the absence of alcohol paves the way for a more satisfying life free from the hangovers, anxiety and malaise that often follow a night of drinking, leaving you feeling energized and clear-minded instead.

“Some of the wildest parties I’ve been to were Daybreaker events,” he gushes. “When people are in a space where they feel no pressure to drink or act a certain way, they can truly let loose. Unlike traditional parties where substances are used to relax, Daybreaker proves that people can reach the same high naturally.”

Mindfulness and intention-setting

The crux of these collectives and their events is mindfulness. Brenc incorporates cacao circles before dancing to help set the tone at The Oracle Project’s events.

“When we sit in a circle to set our intentions, it creates a sacred moment,” she explains. “It allows everyone to connect with themselves and each other before we let loose on the dancefloor.”

Daybreaker also incorporates mindfulness as a key element of its events, beginning with yoga and ending with moments of reflection and joy. Herd says the infrastructure of the organization’s events places “huggers” at the door to greet guests with a hug and set a joyful tone.

Superbloom takes a similar approach, blending music and movement into a cohesive experience with intention.

“Setting an intention is like sharing a dream,” says Miller. “It opens up the space, removes barriers, and allows people to come together more deeply from the start.” Darnell adds that “it’s a way for everyone to feel seen and heard right from the start, and from there, people just naturally open up, and the entire event becomes more immersive and meaningful.”

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Pushing past discomfort

Despite the growing popularity of wellness-focused dance parties, some are still hesitant to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. But Herd, Brenc and the co-founders of Superbloom all agree that the experience is worth it. 

Darnell of Superbloom emphasized how sober dance parties can be likened to fitness for authentic expression. In a similar way, alcohol-free dance parties can feel intimidating at first, just like stepping into a gym.

“It might be intimidating or scary to go into the space and it might take a little while to settle in, but once you do, what you get is a stronger, more authentic expression of yourself,” Darnell explains. That approach, he says, has enabled him to speak confidently in front of large crowds, dance without inhibition and have fun without the next-day regrets.

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Herd also paints a picture of Daybreaker’s events as welcoming, low-pressure spaces. “There’s no expectation to dance or act a certain way. You can just enjoy the vibe, sip coffee, or let loose on the dance floor without any pressure,” he said.

Brenc encouraged anyone who is hesitant to attend to think of it like any other time they’ve pushed past discomfort in life.

“Think of the times in your life where you stepped out of your comfort zone—it’s always worth it,” she said. “These events are safe places where you’ll meet wonderful people.”

The future of wellness dance

Whether you’re dancing at Daybreaker’s sunrise yoga parties, connecting through mindfulness at Superbloom’s wellness events or finding deep conversations at The Oracle Project, there’s no question the wellness-focused dance scene could reshape the collective perspective of fun.

As these parties gain popularity in lockstep with the booming “sober curious” movement, it’s clear the future of nightlife is about more than drinking less. It’s about living authentically and fully in the moment.

How can today’s generation of electronic music producers stay authentic in a highly saturated market? In the age of social media, when viral content strategies and hollow traffic-drivers often take precedence, borne urges artists to remember the importance of the music itself.

“I notice that people crank out a few songs and then immediately go to the marketing or pushing it on on TikTok,” borne tells EDM.com. “I think people forget that the most important part is the music and creating a story.”

The 22-year-old breakout’s hot take on music production? Today’s artists need to “let the music speak for itself.”

“There’s a lot of ‘dopamine hit’ content, which gets people interested for a certain amount of time, but then they lose the engagement,” he explains. “Trying to create a story and focus on the production itself is the most important part.”

With so much content constantly bidding for attention in an endless stream of ads and memes, today’s listeners struggle to focus for more than a few seconds. So he felt it was paramount to call his music pseudonym something classic and timeless, ultimately turning to his own last name to derive his pseudonym.

“I was trying to find something that I wouldn’t regret in five years,” he says with a laugh.

He felt a humbling, full-circle moment wash over him in May, when he was featured in a mix by the deeply influential UKF brand. As a teen, UKF’s releases framed his approach to electronic music through the lens of timeless tunes from dubstep luminaries like Zeds Dead. Being featured in a mix alongside the iconic duo made it even more meaningful, he said.

He then dropped his thumping, 140 BPM dubstep heater “Control” via UKF in September.

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The artist’s exposure to electronic music in his early teens “turned on the curiosity factor,” inspiring him to play with Virtual DJ and ultimately buy his first controller. From there, he started experimenting with music production around age 14.

A Montréal native, borne attended the city’s beloved ÎleSoniq Music Festival but had never went to any other major fests until Shambhala last summer. That event also happened to be where he played his debut DJ set.

He says he was initially drawn to rave culture because it sets the stage for a full spectrum of unlimited self-expression and creativity. He also felt inspired by the level of teamwork involved in taking the overall vision of an event from an idea to reality. In order to produce a successful event, an array of factors have to meet at a creative collision point, including visual art, sound and stage production. That process intrigued him.

When analyzing festival culture and the overall spirit of dance music, borne said he’s enthralled by the “family tree” of influences that stem from industry pioneers who paved the way for EDM and its subgenres, creating a textured web of innovation and interconnectedness.

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Those layers of innovation and inspiration ultimately led him to heavily experiment with his style and sound in the past eight years.

“When I first started, I used to just stack stuff and have a bunch of layers because it made it feel bigger and louder. Over time, I learned that less is more,” he explains, laughing about the “chaotic” start to his discography.

“I experimented with everything, and I think that’s important for every producer to do,” he adds. “Dip your toes into everything and then see what you really enjoy doing.”

Now, borne describes his signature sound as “minimal” and “bass-oriented.” His goal is to infuse every arrangement with a heavy dose of intention, from the bass to the percussion and everything in between.

The producer’s work is paying dividends. His style has led him to major performances, like an upcoming headline set for Atlanta’s DEF collective, and collaborations with some of bass music’s biggest names. Of all his recent collabs, he says his unreleased track with PEEKABOO, one of EDM.com‘s best music producers of 2023, means the most.

“I’ve been getting more into 140, deep dubstep style, which is one of [PEEKABOO’s] specialties. It’s always nice working with like-minded producers,” he said about producing the hotly anticipated ID. “It was like, let’s just make whatever and make it natural. I was also really grateful he brought me to be a part of the Denver show at Mission Ballroom. For him to bring me out for that and share love and support, I was so appreciative.”

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When peering into his metaphorical crystal ball, borne embraces change for the music industry, like the influx of AI. He said he can imagine certain AI applications benefitting young, aspiring music producers.

“It would be cool to use AI for project breakdowns, like showing how a song was made or how the individual sounds were made. If tech like that was a tool when I was younger and trying to learn, it would have been extremely beneficial because you’d learn faster, as opposed to just figuring out yourself.”

He’s aware, however, of the nefarious aspects of generative AI in the music production world.

“The whole point of music is the humanized effect,” he explains. “You see how many different options and sounds there are, because it’s through our ears and it’s very personalized. If someone goes about making music through AI, it’s going to be algorithmic and you can see exactly what’s going to happen. The possibilities aren’t as endless in that sense. I do feel like people will recognize the humanized songs, but we’ll see.”

Leaving aspiring producers with one last piece of advice, borne says it’s crucial to “take lessons out of failed attempts.”

“I’m a firm believer that the music speaks for itself,” he says. “Remember, even if it sounds bad, the whole process you went through to make that song has probably taught you a lot. Try to find small wins. It doesn’t always have to be about like the end result. Try to create a story for people to follow alongside the music.”

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TikTok’s relationship with music is undergoing a transformation. Its platform has become a driving force for the discovery of electronic music, boasting a 70% growth in video creations featuring the genre year-over-year, according to a press release issued by the company.

Sub-genres like drum & bass, techno and trance have all seen notable increases in popularity. To capitalize on this momentum, TikTok has launched its global #ElectronicMusic hub coinciding with the recent Amsterdam Dance Event.

TikTok’s global community is not just consuming electronic music—they’re fueling its future. From remixing tracks to sharing clips from live sets, users are helping artists achieve rapid virality, like EDM.com Class of 2024 member Kenya Grace, whose track “Strangers” picked up steam on TikTok and has since garnered over 1 billion streams across services.

Serving as a launchpad for emerging talent and established icons alike, TikTok is amplifying the reach of electronic music artists across the globe. However, while the company is ramping up its efforts to promote music, it is simultaneously shutting down its native music streaming service, TikTok Music. The platform, which launched in 2019, aimed to compete with giants like Spotify and Apple Music but was available only in select regions like Brazil, Mexico and Australia prior to its closure. 

TikTok, however, isn’t backing away from music entirely. Instead, they are doubling down on features like the “Add to Music App” function, allowing users to save songs from the platform directly to major streaming services. This strategic shift suggests that the company sees more value in bolstering its core strength, short-form video creation, rather than competing directly in the crowded streaming space.

In the digital sphere where electronic music mainstays like Kygo and Marshmello once found their footing, SoundCloud is now reporting that fans of the genre comprise its most dedicated, vocal and active community. 

Released during this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), new data from SoundCloud proves that the electronic genre’s fanbase is outshining other music communities with staggering engagement statistics. In an “Essential Insider Knowledge” panel during last week’s summit, SoundCloud CEO Eliah Seton and house music producer Mau P revealed fresh insights into the platform’s electronic music ecosystem.

The community is not only growing in size, but its listeners are also the most engaged of any genre on the platform. According to the data, electronic music fans are 104% more likely to share content, 85% more likely to repost and 52% more likely to comment than fans of other genres.

The revelations mark an important chapter for SoundCloud, which almost faced bankruptcy nearly a decade ago. The company in 2017 narrowly avoided collapse thanks to a $169.5 million capital infusion. The platform struggled to monetize its massive user base at the time, with layoffs and office closures threatening its future. Today, SoundCloud’s thriving electronic music culture continues to play a pivotal role in its story, helping the company reassert its standing as a vital hub for artist creativity and fan interaction.  

Trance, hardcore and house, which drive the highest engagement rates on SoundCloud, are leading a surge of activity, with the lattermost genre topping the charts for the most streams and listening time. Global data reveals that countries like Belgium, Austria and Germany dominate electronic music streams while Vietnam is emerging as a hotspot by virtue of its fast-growing “Vinahouse” sub-genre. 

With over 400 million tracks and a mission rooted in empowering artists, SoundCloud is banking on this enduring connection with electronic music fans to continue shaping the future of the industry. Check out the company’s official blog post to discover more statistical insights on electronic music’s reach and impact on the platform.

Half a decade later, we’re still trying to untangle how a send-up of vapid EDM somehow became genuinely, unironically beloved.

The world has changed a lot in five years, but one thing remains constant: the cultural footprint left by “A Little Bit Alexis,” Alexis Rose’s gloriously kitschy anthem from Schitt’s Creek. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, much like Moira Rose’s vocabulary.

When Schitt’s Creek star Annie Murphy took center stage as Alexis—socialite, jet-setter and reformed party girl—the campy track was meant to be nothing more than a punchline. But “A Little Bit Alexis” quickly became a phenomenon, immortalizing Alexis’ wild and whimsical energy by way of shameless lyrics laced through a pulsing, formulaic electro house beat.

Her intentionally chaotic choreography and pitch-imperfect delivery only made it more iconic.

In crafting this earworm, the Emmy Award-winning actress teamed up with her real-life husband, musician Menno Versteeg, who stepped in as co-producer alongside his Hollerado bandmate Nixon Boyd. Murphy, the mastermind behind Alexis’ endearingly delusional pop star moment, says they couldn’t get through the recording without laughing.

“Not even close,” Murphy tells EDM.com. “In fact, it was the laughing that made the song what it was. As soon as someone would cackle or blurt out, ‘Oh my god that’s so dumb,’ we would immediately record whatever that idea was.”

Countless spontaneous dance parties and karaoke catastrophes later, the track has amassed over 10 million digital streams and even managed to land on Billboard’s US Dance/Electronic Songs chart, where it climbed to a peak of #21. In the annals of fictitious dance-pop stardom, who’d have guessed that Alexis’ squawking vocals about expensive sushi and cute huge yachts—and being a little bit single even when she’s not—would outlast her 15 minutes of fame?

“Sometimes the corniest answer is the only answer, okay?!” Murphy explains. “The most meaningful impact was seeing the giggles and the goofiness that it brought people. Seeing it being performed at drag brunches, or watching people do their own versions of it during lockdown, complete with the ‘choreography’ was incredibly special.”

When that rhinestone-encrusted lyrical cyclone swept through our playlists in 2019, it left us forever changed—and slightly confused. It’s a far cry from the raw indie-rock sound of Versteeg, who will soon release a new solo album, Why We Run.

That contrast, Versteeg says, is what made the song such a blast to produce.

“We knew it had to be kitschy and over-the-top, so the mandate was: check your restraint and indie sensibilities at the door,” Versteeg explains. “We sat down in the studio and immediately pulled up the video for ‘Work Bitch’ by Britney Spears. We didn’t even look at another thing. We came back the next day and Nixon had that awesome bassline… Yes it definitely sounds very similar. That was the point: derivative, catchy and fun.”

Why We Run is set to drop December 13th on Versteeg’s own label, the Toronto-based Royal Mountain Records. Fans of “A Little Bit Alexis,” of course, won’t hear the same detached, beautifully brazen trash-pop on the album.

But they’ll find themselves at home thanks to the playful unpredictability of Versteeg, who says he and Murphy “have taken some of the experience of writing this song into our other work.”

Look no further than the wild music video for “Bad Dog,” a track about Versteeg’s canine best friend, Roger. He says Roger is a cuddle monster that everybody loves, but in the video, he’s “a sword-wielding, freebasing, peanut butter-gobbling ‘treat’ dealer” to all of his and Murphy’s friends’ dogs.

With tinctures of classic rock’s soulful authenticity, there’s a gritty honesty and raspy warmth in Versteeg’s sound. Just like the life of Alexis in Schitt’s Creek, his music has always felt like a soundtrack to a beautifully imperfect life and the quest to make sense of its messiness.

With that in mind, it’s fair to wonder if Versteeg can not only reconcile the enduring appeal of “A Little Bit Alexis,” but also balance artistic integrity with commercial viability in the face of its runaway success. It’s impossible not to second-guess creative decisions and puzzle over their implications, imagining if they might become part of pop culture years down the line.

Versteeg believes music that stays true to itself holds value beyond success and moves people deeply, whether it’s found in a totemic TV show or a dimly lit dive bar with graffiti-covered walls.

“I believe that artistic integrity always has to come first, but also that every form of art at every level of ‘success’ can be done with integrity,” he explains. “Coming up with original ways to express thoughts and feelings, helping people feel something inside themselves, or helping people escape themselves… great art does this weather it’s hanging on the wall in the Tate or being sung to three people in the pub down the street.”

“Some things make money, others never will. Part of being a true artist is following your own path, regardless of how bumpy or smooth it gets.”

Versteeg is now blazing that path’s trail on a North American tour, to which fans can purchase tickets here. His upcoming album, Why We Run, is now available for pre-order.

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Pretty Lights and a small team of determined creatives have orchestrated an online auction that resonates far beyond the confines of his dreamlike dancefloors.

As Western North Carolina grapples with the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the pioneering electronic artist has joined a feverish rally to offer a beacon of hope through a rare collection currently under the digital hammer. It’s a luminous lot comprising over 150 coveted items, each crackling with a pulse of his creativity and his band’s ineffable connection to fans.

“Our fans are really about lifting each other up and the sense of community that we’ve built is such a beautiful thing,” Meghan Zank, Pretty Lights’ partner, tells EDM.com backstage prior to his set at Austin City Limits. “So they all want to help. When we see any major devastation, we think, ‘What can we do?'”

Pretty Lights, whose real name is Derek Vincent Smith, echoed that sentiment. He and Zank worked with Erin Fritts, Jennifer Rodriguez and Emily Picart to execute the 72-hour online auction, “Creatives For WNC Relief,” which features contributions from all around Pretty Lights’ vast community. The band’s videographer Corey Ramos, a Charlotte native, has also played a pivotal role.

“We’re a few hours away, so it definitely hit home, seeing how many friends live out there. Their city was devastated and they can’t go back, and some friends are relocating,” Ramos laments. “It was just so unexpected and they’re just not prepared for that kind of stuff. They’re prepared for blizzards—not flash flooding.”

“It was tough to see. So after a week of kind of just figuring out how we could help, we figured this might be the best way. A lot of people have love for that area through the music scene.”

Among the treasures up for grabs are over 15 autographed official prints—rare relics no longer available to the public—alongside tickets to upcoming shows and high-quality photo prints captured by Pretty Lights’ photographer, Brittany Teuber. Other highlights include lessons from renowned drummer Adam Deitch and Lettuce guitarist Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff.

“Creatives For WNC Relief” even includes a guarantee for song or sample requests at Pretty Lights’ performances, letting fans take part in curating the very sound that defines their lives. But as bidders vie for these gems, they’re also contributing to a larger narrative of resilience and restoration.

To that end, the silent auction speaks volumes about the transformative power of art in times of crisis. Zank paints a picture of a deeply passionate grassroots effort to prove that electronic music can help rebuild, both spiritually and materially.

“The music that [Smith] makes really comes from the deepest part of his soul,” she says. “It speaks to the human experience and I think it’s super relatable. And he’s just a really true artist. So I think when something’s real, it just attracts power. Taking care of each other—it’s not about just him, it’s about our team and the community around us.”

“Connection is a big theme around here,” Ramos adds. “I feel like any way that PL gets a chance to connect or fuse the connection themselves, they’ll take advantage of it.”

“Creatives For WNC Relief” ends October 15th at 7pm EST (5pm MST, 4pm PST). You can place bids here.

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End Overdose is leading a hi-tech charge in the fight against drug overdoses, unveiling a cutting-edge e-training tool that promises to make a significant impact at EDM events.

The nonprofit, one of EDM.com‘s best industry leaders of 2022, says the initiative will “revolutionize overdose response training” at the concerts and festivals in which their teams are providing education. Dubbed “Narcats World,” the e-learning resource arrives in the midst of a growing need for medical preparedness at large-scale events, where limited onsite resources can leave attendees vulnerable.

Harm reduction remains one of today’s most timely flashpoints in the electronic dance music community and its festivals, which remain heavily scrutinized due to its inextricable link to drug use. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are the primary driver of overdose deaths in the United States, according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration, citing CDC data.

End Overdose believes “Narcats World” will democratize training by making it more accessible while improving retention and preparedness. Its deployment is designed to educate more ravers while boosting their confidence in managing real-time overdose situations.

The organization says “Narcats World” can increase retention by up to 75%. They’ve gamified the platform to offer rewards to participants, and incorporated narrative storytelling and “multi-sensory” specs like haptic feedback to keep them engaged.

It’s important to note that the e-learning tool is still in its development phase and End Overdose has not formally rolled it out to events at the time of this writing. 

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As the music industry continues to evolve, the road to success for independent artists seems to be getting even steeper. 

A new report published by Right Chord Music and Musosoup, “The Musician’s Census 2024,” highlights a series of hurdles that make navigating the path of an independent musician more difficult than ever.

The Musician’s Census is one of the most in-depth surveys of grassroots musicians. The global study gathered responses from 300 independent artists across 64 countries, and the trends that emerge paint a stark picture of an industry where getting paid, being heard and building a fanbase are becoming monumental tasks for musicians trying to stay financially afloat.

One of the most alarming revelations of the data centers on payment. Nearly two-thirds of respondents admitted they aren’t fully aware if they are receiving the full extent of what they are owed, nor are they certain they aren’t. It’s a baffling reality that leaves musicians questioning how they can sustain their careers when financial transparency is often elusive.

Another overwhelming challenge, the report suggests, is the sheer difficulty of gaining exposure. A staggering 54% of musicians said getting their music heard is their biggest hurdle. Market over-saturation was cited as a one major factor, with the constant flood of new releases making it nearly impossible to stand out along with the proliferation of AI-generated music.

Ultimately, 68% of respondents agreed that the path of an independent musician is “tougher than ever,” underscoring the mounting obstacles in the bedrock of today’s music industry. You can read and download the full report here.

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. If you have information regarding access to resources for members of the music community affected by Hurricane Helene, please reach out to editorial@edm.com.

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As Hurricane Helene continues its pernicious path through the Southeastern United States, scores of beleaguered music venues and professionals are seeking a lifeline.

Helene has mutated into one of the largest and most harmful storms to develop in the Gulf of Mexico in the last century after making landfall as a Category 4 hurricane September 26th in Florida, according to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

The death toll today climbed over 215, making the storm the deadliest since 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, according to Axios. Emergency shelters are now opening en masse in the aftermath of the historic flooding, which left hundreds of thousands of people without water, power and cell service.

Helene hit North Carolina especially hard last weekend, causing widespread devastation across coastal and inland communities. Emergency services were reportedly overwhelmed by calls for help as heavy rains triggered flash floods across the region, sweeping away entire homes and venues.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has called the storm “catastrophic” and recently received approval from the federal government to declare a Major Disaster, per a press release issued by his office. The edict allowed the state to secure access to a “significant funding commitment.”

“The people in western North Carolina are hurting from this devastating storm and we are all working to get resources to people as fast as we can,” Cooper said. “We have deployed rescue teams, transportation crews, water, mobile kitchens and more. This is going to be a long-term recovery and this federal declaration will help us respond.”

Read on to find out how to support independent music venues and people during the ongoing crisis caused by Helene.

How to support the music community impacted by Hurricane Helene

• Pioneering electronic music artist Pretty Lights has launched a silent auction to raise to raise much-needed funds for relief efforts in Western North Carolina. It features over 150 items, including rare autographed prints and drum lessons. You can place bids here.

• The National Independent Venue Foundation Emergency Relief Fund is providing essential financial aid to help keep venues and festivals afloat. The organization is accepting donations here.

• MusiCares, a nonprofit providing health, financial and rehabilitation resources to music industry professionals in times of need, offers an Emergency Financial Assistance Program providing financial grants.

• Salvage Station, a beloved music venue located in Asheville’s historic River Arts District, was completely destroyed. The venue’s owners have launched a campaign to raise funds, which will be “strictly given to our employees to survive during this devastating time.” You can donate here.

• Another popular independent venue in the River Arts District, The Grey Eagle, has cancelled or postponed all of its concerts until the city of Asheville gets running water back. Its owners are accepting in-kind donations to support staff members.

• A special benefit concert is taking place October 26th at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium featuring Luke Combs, Eric Church, Billy Strings and James Taylor. 100% of proceeds from “A Concert for Carolina” will benefit ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, according to Explore Asheville, who pledged $1 million as the presenting sponsor. Tickets go on sale Thursday, October 10th at 10am here.

• A hurricane relief concert, “From Wilmington, With Love,” featuring Ben Folds will take place on October 29th at the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. 100% of proceeds will benefit local charities assisting with emergency food, housing and home repairs via the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, managed by United Way of North Carolina. The show is hosted by the City of Wilmington with support from Live Nation, the Wilmington Arts Council and the NC Music Office. Purchase tickets here.

• Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts, an independent venue in Charlotte, is now moonlighting as a drop-off location for essential supplies like batteries, flashlights, water purification tablets, blankets and baby formula. Its owners have ensured they will deliver items to a slew of impacted venues.

• Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts is also hosting a benefit concert on October 11th to help fund the efforts of Beloved Asheville, a local nonprofit providing aid to those in need across western North Carolina. A portion of the night’s sales as well as all donations received at the door will be directed to the organization. You can purchase tickets here.

• Over in Tennessee, Nashville’s The Basement club has organized a benefit concert on October 7th to help raise funds for victims in the eastern part of the state as well as western North Carolina. You can purchase tickets here.

• A group of venues launched the “NC Indie Music Venues United for Western NC” initiative to direct a portion of ticket sales throughout the month of October to relief efforts. They will be splitting the proceeds between the NIVA’s Emergency Relief Fund and NC Arts Disaster Relief Fund, among other organizations.

After last-year’s record-breaking Amsterdam Dance Event, the world’s leading electronic music summit is once again painting a mosaic of rave culture you simply cannot find anywhere else in the world.

Whether you’re trying to chase the biggest DJ sets, discover the underground sounds of tomorrow or seek out the best insights the electronic music industry can offer, ADE is the skeleton key to every door. 2023’s remarkable conference brought together 500,000 from all over the world.

Our annual ADE list dives deep into the week’s programming to highlight various must-attend festivals, parties, panels and more from the Lab, Pro, Festival and Arts & Culture programs. Read on to discover 24 events you can’t miss at ADE 2024, in no particular order.

You can purchase passes and find out more about ADE here.

Tomorrowland presents: Our Story 2024

Location: Ziggo Dome | De Passage 100, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 19:00 – 23:30
Lineup: N/A

Tomorrowland will celebrate its 20-year anniversary with an Our Story show in the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam on Friday October 18, 2024.

Taking place during Amsterdam Dance Event, people from around the world can expect a spectacle and journey through 20 years of Tomorrowland’s musical history with some of the finest electronic artists set to perform their most iconic tracks in front of 15.000 guests. Guided by the Symphony of Unity, a symphonic orchestra with musicians and vocalists to unite classical and electronic music live on stage. The line-up will remain a secret until the artists take the stage.

More information here.

AMF 2024

Location: Johan Cruijff ArenA | Boulevard 1, Amsterdam
Date and time: Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 21:00 – 06:00
Lineup: Martin Garrix, Tiësto, Maddix, Marlon Hoffstadt, Showtek, Timmy Trumpet, Tita Lau, Wade

On October 19, 2024, AMF will be back for its 12th edition!

More information here.

Amelie Lens x Charlotte de Witte

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 16:30 – 17:15
Lineup: Amelie Lens, Charlotte de Witte

Amelie Lens and Charlotte de Witte headline the ADE Pro Conference, exclusively opening up about their new-found partnership and future plans for the first time. The two cornerstones of today’s techno scene join forces for a string of unique, collaborative DJ sets, and take visitors of their ADE Pro panel on the journey leading up to this project with them.

Renowned for their commanding stage presence and fearless audacity to push the limits on stage, De Witte and Lens are combining their talents to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans in Belgium, having confirmed a trio of b2b sets at Ghent’s Flanders Expo in January and February of next year. For those who can’t wait – join ADE Pro for an in-depth sneak peek.

You have the opportunity to submit a question, which could be addressed by Charlotte and Amelie during their session at ADE Pro. Click here to send it in.

More information here.

Chris Stussy’s Tips and Hacks for a Long-Lasting Career

Location: Felix Meritis (Shaffyzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 16:15 – 17:00
Lineup: Chris Stussy, Joe Muggs

Every artist dreams of establishing themselves as both a successful creative individual and someone with a long, fruitful career. While many artists work to maintain their career and image over the years, Chris will share his personal take on how he approaches this. In this intimate and highly personal keynote, Chris will outline his approach to his career, how he maintains his mental and physical health under the constant pressure to deliver, how he separates the multiple demands of his career from his personal life, his techniques for making the best out of touring, and how he stays authentic with his dedicated fanbase.

More information here.

EDM.com & Friends Amsterdam

Location: ClinkNOORD | Badhuiskade 3, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 17:00 – 23:00
Lineup: RayRay, Rich DietZ, BRANDON, Makasi, Carly Wilford, FREAK ON, Ryan Shepherd, Luca Testa, Andrea Damante

Taking over ClinkNOORD, a trendy hostel located in Amsterdam’s Noord area, EDM.com is aptly kicking off an explosive week of partying and networking in the Dutch capital.

Featuring a world-renowned lineup, EDM.com & Friends takes place from 5pm to 11pm and directly follows “Insider Access: Global Networking Event,” the brand’s annual networking event and demo drop, which has taken place in Miami, Montreal, Tulum, London and more throughout the past year.

More information here.

Hard Techno: Music & Lifestyle

Location: Felix Meritis (Teekenzaal 1) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 | 13:30 – 14:15
Lineup: Michelle Verhoef, Sara Landry

The high BPM scene is back with a vengeance with the meteoric rise of Hard Techno taking the global music and event industry by storm. It has evolved into a cultural movement that includes fashion and several lifestyle trends. Fueled by a young and highly engaged community, the Hard Techno scene looks like it’s here to stay. During this conversation we explore the origin and impact of hard techno from both an artist and event angle in a fireside chat between Sara Landry, a self-taught producer, audio engineer, and DJ known for her dark, driving, and divinely feminine brand of industrial techno, together with Michelle Verhoef, the General Manager of Verknipt, who, as well as being an electronic music industry maverick, is also paving the way for the hard-techno sound and for women in music.

More information here.

Beyond Streaming: Unlocking new revenue opportunities for artists

Location: Felix Meritis (Teekenzaal 2) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 | 11:15 – 12:00
Lineup: Aly Gillani, Anjali Nazarenko, Myradh Cormican, Scuba, Becky Wixon

Gain insights into unlocking alternative revenue streams to help diversify artist’s income beyond traditional methods and enhance creative freedom.

In this panel, artists will gain insights into unlocking new revenue streams and diversify their income beyond traditional methods. Explore practical strategies for working with brands, from sonic branding to licensing and bespoke composition, as well as approaches to merchandising and creating digital experiences that engage fans. These insights will help artists enhance their creative freedom and deepen their cultural relevance while building a more sustainable career.

Hosted by Songtradr’s Head of Talent, Becky Wixon, this session features industry professionals with vast experience including DJ and producer Scuba. The panelists bring diverse expertise from helping to elevate the careers of artists like Chase & Status, through to establishing artist partnerships and projects with brands including Magnum and Heineken. The discussion will highlight how alternative revenue streams can offer greater creative independence, financial security, and brand-building for artists.

More information here.

The Art of Creative Reinvention

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 12:15 – 13:00
Lineup: Don Diablo, Laidback Luke, Lorne Padman

Any artist who has (or desires) a long career is highly likely to want to take a different musical or creative direction at some point, which is inherently dangerous in terms of how their army of fans will react, but equally, it is, after all, what being an artist is all about. How do they deal with the risks involved in reinventing themselves or shifting their musical direction or genre?

Emerging technologies are also constantly reshaping the music experience, and Don Diablo + Laidback Luke discuss the dynamic intersection of immersive technology and artistic evolution, sharing experiences of how they’ve navigated their own reinventions, offering practical advice on preparing fans for new directions, such as through teaser content, behind-the-scenes insights, and engaging storytelling. The importance of transparency with fans, explaining their motivations for change and how it aligns with their artistic growth are also on the agenda.

More information here.

Celebrating the UNESCO Status for Berlin Techno

Location: Felix Meritis (Koepelzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 14:00 – 14:45
Lineup: Dimitri Hegemann, Ellen Allien, Holly Dicker

At the beginning of this year, the Berlin Techno scene was added to the intangible cultural heritage list in Germany by UNESCO, bestowing a unique status on a unique scene which has inspired people all over the world. The music and culture is part of the DNA of Berlin, with many of the clubs in the city having become institutions, and many of the local underground artists now being some of the biggest names in the industry. This panel is a tribute to the UNESCO status of Berlin Techno. Together with Dimitri Hegemann, founder of the renowned Berlin club Tresor, and legendary techno artist and label owner Ellen Allien, the speakers will discuss the importance of this movement on electronic music in general.

More information here.

Burnout Prevention & Creative Flourishing

Location: Felix Meritis | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 15:00 – 15:45
Lineup: Louisahhh, Dangermami, Tristan Hunt

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Burnout Prevention and Creativity,” featuring three influential voices from the music industry: Lilia ‘Dangermami’ of Femme Bass Mafia and RSO Berlin, Tristan Hunt, and Louisahhh. This session will delve into the critical issues of diversity, inclusion, and burnout prevention within the music industry, providing actionable insights and practical tools for fostering a supportive and thriving environment.

The panel will explore how dysfunctional systems can be reformed, the specific needs of marginalized groups, and effective tools and resources for preventing burnout while fostering creativity. Attendees will gain insights into creating supportive environments that enable all voices to flourish.

The discussion will be followed by a Q&A session, offering the audience an opportunity to engage directly with the panelists, ask questions, and delve deeper into the topics covered.

More information here.

Celebrating the Legacy of ‘The Godfather of House’ Frankie Knuckles, 10 Years On

Location: Felix Meritis (Koepelzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 16:15 – 17:00
Lineup: Cinthie, Frederick Dunson, Maria May, Tedd Patterson, The Blessed Madonna

The Frankie Knuckles Foundation and Defected Records present: Celebrating the legacy of ‘The Godfather of House’ Frankie Knuckles, 10 years on. What every DJ needs to know about the true origins of House & why heritage is still vital to dance music today.

The Frankie Knuckles Foundation and Defected Records come together to commemorate 10 Years since the passing of Frankie Knuckles regarded by many as the architect of the global House sound. Frankie’s musical influence is profound and relevant to a whole new generation of producers and DJs. His legacy lives on with the Frankie Knuckles Foundation. Here we examine Frankie’s contribution to House music and the importance of heritage in Dance music today by the DJs and people that were there.

More information here.

Accessible Festivals: Best practices, presented by HandicapNL

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 15:15 – 16:00
Lineup: Andrew Lansley, Calvin Khan, Eva Eikhout, Farida Baalbaki

In this panel, two major music festival organizers and a Deaf DJ will share best practices and insights on creating inclusive festivals, while also highlighting the key elements of a Dutch model for accessible events.

Disabilities at events are caused by how they are organised. Event organizations could readjust events every edition. This is a unique chance to adopt a social model and move towards empowering ways of dealing with disability and ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of live events. Among the pioneers in this movement are Glastonbury (U.K) and Amsterdam Open Air (NL), both of which have implemented comprehensive measures to accommodate all attendees.

Glastonbury, one of the world’s largest and iconic festivals is nominated for “World’s most accessible music festival” and Amsterdam Open Air, a pioneer in the Netherlands, had the premiere last summer of the first Sit-Down Cafe, an inclusive activation for all festivalgoers to meet and party. Eva Eikhout (NL) will host this conversation to share Andrew Lansley and Farida Baalbaki’s latest insights and measures on accessible festivals. With DJ Calvin Khan, we will dive into inclusive sound for Deaf audiences.

Handicap NL presents this panel in light of the collaboration Onbeperkt Feest with Dutch festival frontrunners, which aims to make festivals accessible.

More information here.

WORSHIP Amsterdam ADE

Location: IJland | Tt. Vasumweg 171, 1033 SG Amsterdam, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 21:00 – 02:00
Lineup: 1991, Culture Shock, Dimension, Sub Focus

More information here.

⁠Audio Obscura ADE x Innervisions [24 hrs] w/ Âme & Dixon & more

Location: RAWFACTORY | Joan Muyskenweg 39, Amsterdam
Date and time: Saturday, Oct 19, 2024 | 13:30 – 13:30
Lineup: Âme, Dixon, Sama’ Abdulhadi, Modeselektor, DJ BORING, Bambounou, FJAAK, Gerd Janson, Jimi Jules, Julya Karma, Marie Montexier, Roman Flügel, Sarkawt Hamad, Sedef Adasi, Trikk

On the Saturday of ADE, we go all-in and dive into an around-the-clock musical journey with Innervisions, featuring artists such as Âme, Dixon, Trikk, Jimi Jules, Marie Montexier, Fjaak, Sedef Adasï, and many more as they push the boundaries of electronic music.

This all-day experience includes a daytime and nighttime RAWFACTORY event, finishing off with an extraordinary closing show somewhere in Amsterdam.

More information here.

Dolby Atmos House: Armin van Buuren Listening Session

Location: TOBACCO Theater | Nes 75-87, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 14:00 – 15:00
Lineup: Armin van Buuren

Have you ever been immersed in ultra-precise sound that comes from all around you? At the Dolby Atmos House in TOBACCO Theater, right at ADE’s epicenter, we’re immersing you in the limitless possibilities of multi-dimensional sound with Dolby Atmos in our auditory sanctuary. At our home base, you’ll find inspiration and a place to connect and recharge while joining the artists and engineers pushing the boundaries of audio and experiencing music.

The Dolby Atmos House is free and open to everyone, although capacity is limited.

Armin takes the stage to share insights on remastering his catalog in Dolby Atmos. He’ll discuss how immersive, multi-dimensional mixing adds new layers to his music.

This program is part of the Armada Music takeover.

More information here.

DGTL ADE: Gou Talk by Peggy Gou

Location: NDSM Warehouse | NDSM-Plein 85, Amsterdam
Date and time: Sunday, October 20, 2024 | 16:00 – 01:00
Lineup: Peggy Gou, Alinka, Ambu Bambu, Anz, Bambounou, Brain de Palma, Marie Montexier, Pearson Sound, Salamanda, Spray (DE)

Just when you think you’ve experienced it all, there’s more! After a memorable first collaboration, Gou Talk by Peggy Gou returns to our DGTL ADE program. This year’s lineup includes the electrifying Peggy Gou herself, alongside artists like ANZ, Bambounou, and Marie Montexier. Also featuring Salamanda (Live) and Spray.

More information here.

Timbaland & Martin Garrix In Conversation

Location: Felix Meritis (Zuilenzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 | 12:15 – 13:00
Lineup: Martin Garrix, Timbaland, Arthi Nachiappan

More information here.

SoundCloud – Essential Insider Knowledge

Location: Felix Meritis (Shaffyzaal) | Keizersgracht 324, Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 12:30 – 13:15
Lineup: Eliah Seton, Emmy Lovell, Mau P

In this Insider Knowledge session, global DJ/producer Mau P will join CEO of SoundCloud Eliah Seton and SoundCloud’s Global Head of Music Emmy Lovell. Together, they will discuss the strategic moves that have defined Mau P’s career and rapid success, and how SoundCloud has been instrumental in supporting independent artists like him. This session promises to provide valuable insights for all levels of artists and music professionals looking to leverage digital platforms for success.

More information here.

Awakenings ADE Sunday Closing

Location: Gashouder | Klönneplein 1, Amsterdam
Date and time: Sunday, October 20, 2024 | 14:00 – 00:00
Lineup: CamelPhat, Maceo Plex, Amber Broos, Stephan Bodzin, Kevin de Vries, Miss Monique

We’re back with our annual Amsterdam Dance Event spree! We will return to our Temple of Techno and the Ziggo Dome with 8 events!

More information here.

Bedouin x Drifters Presents: Human By Default Label Showcase

Location: 50:HERTZ CLUB TRAIN | Amsterdam Central Station, Amsterdam
Date and time: Sunday, October 20, 2024 | 05:30 – 09:30
Lineup: Bedouin, Collé, Radeckt, Robin M, Kind Of One, Mitch de Klein, Special Guest

Step aboard for an unforgettable journey as Bedouin x Drifters presents a Human By Default Label Showcase like no other. Glide through the heart of Amsterdam on the 50:HERTZ Club Train, where music and sunrise views blend in perfect harmony. Over the course of four immersive hours, witness the city waking up while Bedouin delivers an intimate, one-of-a-kind performance. They are joined by Human By Default alumni Collé, Radeckt, Robin M and one special guest as well as Drifters residents Kind Of One and Mitch de Klein. This is your chance to connect with the music, the moment, and the magic of Amsterdam Dance Event in a truly unique setting.

More information here.

VISION x KOMPASS – ADE Boat Party

Location: Eivissa Event Ship: Danzigerkade 55, 1013 AP Amsterdam
Date and time: Thursday, October 17, 2024 | 22:00 – 04:00
Lineup: Ivy Lab, KOAN Sound, Posij, Rohaan, Skeler, Thys, What So Not

VISION and Kompass are proud to share an esteemed lineup of the globe’s most renowned producers and tastemakers. Claim your spot aboard this exclusive ADE showcase.

More information here.

Defected ADE

Location: WesterUnie | Klönneplein 4-6, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 23:00 – 06:00
Lineup: Dennis Ferrer, DJ Holographic, Dunmore Brothers, Henrik Schwarz, Low Steppa, Melé, Olive F, Rio Tashan

We are celebrating 25 years of Defected at the Amsterdam Dance Event!

More information here.

Monkey Project presents: Carlita & Friends at A’dam The Loft

Location: The Loft Amsterdam | Overhoeksplein 1, Amsterdam
Date and time: Friday, October 18, 2024 | 13:30 – 20:30
Lineup: Carlita, HAAi, SG Lewis, Special Guest

Monkey Project is bringing its energy to Amsterdam for one of the most forward-thinking electronic music gatherings in the industry. On October 18th, experience this once-in-a-lifetime event at the iconic Loft with an exciting lineup.

More information here.

No Art ADE Weekender

Location: De Hollandsche Manege: Vondelstraat 140, Amsterdam
Date and time: October 18-20, 2024 | 14:00 – 23:00
Lineup: TBD

We’re back again for three days at familiar grounds: ‘De Hollandsche Manege,’ the oldest Dutch horse riding school situated in the city centre of Amsterdam.

More information here.

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