The world of electronic music is teeming with talent, but certain DJs stand out due to their unique sound, groundbreaking performances, and enduring impact on the industry. Here is a look at the top 20 DJs globally and the music that cements their positions as leaders in the electronic music scene.
1. Martin Garrix
A prodigy who burst onto the scene with his hit track “Animals,” Martin Garrix has since become one of the most celebrated DJs in the world. His collaborations with artists like Dua Lipa (“Scared to Be Lonely”) and Bebe Rexha (“In the Name of Love”) showcase his ability to blend emotional depth with danceable beats.
2. David Guetta
Known as a pioneer in bringing electronic music to mainstream audiences, David Guetta’s chart-toppers like “Titanium” (featuring Sia) and “When Love Takes Over” have defined club culture for over a decade.
3. Calvin Harris
Calvin Harris is a hit machine, with tracks like “Summer,” “Feel So Close,” and “This Is What You Came For” earning him a place among the most commercially successful DJs of all time. His fusion of EDM with pop elements has made him a household name.
4. Armin van Buuren
A legend in trance music, Armin van Buuren has been at the forefront of the genre for over 20 years. His tracks “Blah Blah Blah” and “This Is What It Feels Like” are staples for fans of euphoric, melodic beats.
5. Tïesto
Often referred to as the godfather of EDM, Tïesto’s influence is immeasurable. With hits like “Adagio for Strings” and more recent bangers like “The Business,” he continues to dominate festival lineups worldwide.
6. Kygo
The king of tropical house, Kygo has a knack for creating tracks that feel like a summer breeze. Songs like “Firestone” and his remix of Whitney Houston’s “Higher Love” are universally loved.
7. Marshmello
With his signature helmet and feel-good tracks like “Alone” and “Happier” (featuring Bastille), Marshmello has carved out a niche as one of the most recognizable figures in the EDM landscape.
8. Skrillex
As a pioneer of dubstep, Skrillex revolutionized the genre with tracks like “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites.” His collaborations with Diplo in Jack Ü and mainstream artists like Justin Bieber demonstrate his versatility.
9. Diplo
A versatile producer and DJ, Diplo is known for his work with Major Lazer (“Lean On”), Silk City (“Electricity”), and his solo hits. His boundary-pushing sounds keep him relevant across genres.
10. Zedd
Zedd’s knack for creating emotionally charged anthems has made him a favorite among fans of electronic pop. Tracks like “Clarity” and “Stay the Night” are staples of his live performances.
11. Afrojack
A master of electro-house, Afrojack’s hits like “Take Over Control” and collaborations with artists like David Guetta have cemented his place in EDM history.
12. Alesso
Known for his progressive house style, Alesso’s tracks like “Heroes (We Could Be)” and “Under Control” have made him a festival favorite worldwide.
13. Steve Aoki
With his high-energy performances and crowd antics, Steve Aoki is a festival staple. His collaborations with BTS (“Waste It on Me”) and his iconic track “Boneless” are fan favorites.
14. Hardwell
A leader in big-room house, Hardwell’s tracks like “Spaceman” and his explosive live sets have earned him accolades, including twice being named the world’s #1 DJ by DJ Mag.
15. Carl Cox
A pioneer in techno, Carl Cox’s three-deck mixing and commitment to underground music make him one of the most respected figures in electronic music.
16. Eric Prydz
Known for his progressive house and techno mastery, Eric Prydz’s tracks like “Opus” and “Call on Me” demonstrate his ability to blend emotion with intricate production.
17. Nina Kraviz
Nina Kraviz has become a leading figure in techno, known for her hypnotic beats and ability to seamlessly mix acid house and ambient elements.
18. Deadmau5
Recognizable by his iconic mouse helmet, Deadmau5’s tracks like “Strobe” and “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff” highlight his meticulous approach to production.
19. Above & Beyond
This trio is renowned for their uplifting trance music and emotional tracks like “Sun & Moon.” Their label, Anjunabeats, has also been instrumental in supporting emerging talent.
20. Alan Walker
Alan Walker’s breakout hit “Faded” catapulted him to global fame. His unique blend of downtempo and cinematic elements makes his music instantly recognizable.
The Influence of Iconic DJs
The music created by these DJs not only dominates festivals and charts but also shapes trends in electronic music. From Armin van Buuren’s euphoric trance melodies to Kygo’s tropical house anthems, their contributions define and evolve the genre.
These 20 DJs represent the best in electronic music, each bringing their unique style and creativity to the decks. Whether you’re a fan of pounding big-room beats, melodic trance, or genre-bending sounds, their music has something for everyone. So, the next time you’re building a playlist, let these artists guide your journey into the electrifying world of EDM.