OVERPLAYED: ARE ALL THE FESTIVALS THE SAME?

IN THE EXPANSIVE REALM OF ELECTRONIC DANCE MUSIC (EDM), FESTIVALS HAVE MULTIPLIED GLOBALLY, SEEMINGLY INDICATIVE OF A THRIVING ECOSYSTEM. THE SCENE BOASTS AN EVER-GROWING AUDIENCE ATTENDING EVENTS IN DIVERSE LOCALES, FROM MUNICIPAL PARKS TO VOLCANOES, BEACHES, JUNGLES, AND ICONIC LANDMARKS. HOWEVER, BENEATH THE SURFACE OF THIS SEEMINGLY EUPHORIC PANORAMA LIES A DISCONCERTING TREND THAT WARRANTS CLOSER EXAMINATION.

At a superficial glance, the surge in the popularity of EDM festivals appears as a positive sign — increased attendees, broader geographical reach, and music permeating diverse corners of the world. Yet, a disconcerting reality emerges upon scrutinizing the lineups and festival bills. Despite the vast array of locations and numerous festivals, there exists a striking sameness.

Icons such as Green Velvet, Tale Of Us, Fisher, Charlotte de Witte, Peggy Gou, and others dominate the rosters, creating a sense of déjà vu for enthusiasts perusing festival lineups. This lack of diversity raises pertinent questions about the scene's innovative spirit. Is the global EDM landscape experiencing a creative stagnation fueled by a formulaic reliance on established names?

The Global Repetition

This uniformity extends beyond regional confines and is exemplified by the similarities between lineups at renowned festivals like ARC Music Festival and EXIT. The repetition of names across the spectrum raises concerns about the diversity and innovative spirit within the EDM scene. Icons transcend geographical boundaries, creating a sonic homogeneity that hinders the rise of new talent.

Despite these festivals likely beginning by championing local talent and providing a platform for burgeoning artists beyond prime hours, the evolution (or some might argue devolution) into mega-events has seen a shift toward internationally renowned headliners dominating simultaneous stages. This phenomenon raises questions about the essence that once breathed life into these festivals—a commitment to local talent, a genuine celebration of diverse sounds, and a grassroots ethos.

The Erosion of Essence

The essence that once breathed life into these festivals—a commitment to local talent, a genuine celebration of diverse sounds, and an underground ethos—appears to have been diluted by corporate interests, shareholders, and a relentless pursuit of escalating numbers.

Corporate influence and shareholder interests are now shaping festival dynamics, steering the scene away from its roots. This shift raises concerns about the artistic development of emerging talents as exploitative cycles hinder their growth. The overreliance on a select group of headline acts inflates their fees due to high demand, leading to budgetary constraints that, in turn, result in offering minimal or no compensation to emerging artists.

The Sonic Homogeneity

Beyond financial implications, the repetition of certain acts across festivals contributes to a sonic homogeneity. The main stage rarely explores emerging genres or offers a platform for fresh, innovative sounds. Festival-goers are limited in their experience, missing out on the richness of lesser-known genres that could contribute to the evolution of the electronic music scene.

The lack of genre exploration on main stages and the stifling of diversity prevent festival-goers from experiencing the richness of lesser-known but equally compelling genres. This situation prompts reflection on the narrative that the electronic dance music scene is currently navigating and the potential consequences of perpetuating this trajectory.

Recalibrating for the Future

To foster a sustainable and inclusive EDM scene that looks toward the future, recalibration is imperative. A return to grassroots movements, a renewed emphasis on local sounds, and proactive support for rising talent are essential. The narrative should shift from a reliance on guaranteed money-making machines to creating opportunities for the uncharted, the fresh, and the exciting.

The current state of the EDM scene poses challenges but also opportunities for recalibration. Striking a balance between established acts and emerging talents is essential to avoid becoming a victim of its own success. The electronic dance music scene can regain its forward-looking, inclusive essence by considering the implications of its current trajectory and actively steering toward a more diverse and sustainable future.