Cover Photo by Jassper Ten Tusscher

Each year, the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) draws the world’s electronic music community to the heart of Amsterdam for five days of performances, panels, and networking. ADE has evolved into a must-attend event for anyone involved in electronic music, bringing together artists, industry professionals, and fans from across the globe. If you’re an artist, label manager, agent, promoter, or music enthusiast, here’s why ADE is the place to be — and why you should start planning now for ADE 2025.

 

The Global Gathering of Electronic Music

ADE is where you connect with the most influential and passionate figures in electronic music. This year, more than 2,500 artists and 600 speakers converged on Amsterdam, creating a space that blended inspiration, insight, and innovation. With over 1,000 events spread across 200 venues and drawing over 400,000 attendees, ADE 2024 exemplified a level of production and professionalism that is rare in the industry.

For anyone serious about electronic music, ADE offers an unparalleled environment to connect with leading artists, producers, promoters, and creatives who are shaping the future of the scene. Being there feels like an infusion of energy and inspiration, reigniting your drive to bring that spirit back home to fuel your own work and projects.

 

The Panels: A Glimpse Into the Future of the Industry

ADE isn’t just about music performances; it’s a powerhouse of ideas and industry expertise. This year’s panels were packed with discussions on topics like artificial intelligence, sustainability in event production, mental health, and strategies for building sustainable artist careers. The “Future of Festivals” panel, featuring leaders from Tomorrowland and Coachella, provided deep insights into the evolution of live music experiences, while the “AI and the New Music Economy” panel gave a glimpse into the ways technology is reshaping music creation and distribution.

The diversity of topics made each session invaluable, whether you were there to learn about new trends, tackle challenges, or explore innovative business models. ADE’s commitment to inclusivity and progress was evident, with panels such as “Breaking Barriers: Diversity and Inclusion in Electronic Music,” addressing critical issues and celebrating the diverse voices that fuel the genre.

 

The Performances: Unmatched Energy and Talent

While ADE is a hub of discussion and exchange, it’s also a playground of world-class performances that only a city like Amsterdam can host. Legendary clubs, underground venues, and massive warehouses pulsated with energy all week long. Some of the standout performances this year included:

 

• Phil Berg b2b Dasha Rush at Vault Sessions, with their hypnotic, dark set captivating the crowd.

• 999999999’s acid set at Intercell, delivering an intense experience of pure, raw techno energy.

• KI/KI b2b Patrick Mason, bringing infectious synergy to the floor with KI/KI’s mother joining for a surprise set that was nothing short of magical.

• Grace Dahl: The Amsterdam-based DJ and producer, known for her Finnish and Hungarian roots, delivered an eclectic techno set that seamlessly transitioned from hypnotic loops to powerful kicks, captivating the audience.

• Chlär and Alarico: Performing as the duo Funk Assault, they brought an electrifying techno experience, showcasing their dynamic synergy and innovative soundscapes.

• DJ Nobu: The Japanese techno maestro delivered a mesmerizing set, blending deep, atmospheric sounds with driving rhythms, demonstrating why he remains a revered figure in the global techno scene.

• Speedy J at Stoorlab and Luke Slater (PAS live) showcased decades of mastery, blending innovation with technical prowess.

• Fadi Mohem b2b Philippa Pacho at Intercell, a duo that created such energy that it left everyone asking when they’ll bring that vibe stateside.

 

With these performances and many more, ADE provided the perfect showcase of talent, each set a reminder of why electronic music thrives as a live art form.

 

Why You Can’t Miss ADE 2025

ADE is not just a festival; it’s a global summit for electronic music. For artists, it’s a platform to share their sound and make connections that can be career-defining. For managers, label heads, and agents, it’s a discovery zone filled with new talent and trends. And for festival promoters, it’s a chance to elevate their game by learning from the best in the industry.

Attending ADE is like hitting the refresh button for your passion and perspective. It’s a place where you’re constantly reminded of why you’re part of this industry and why the work we do back home can have a global impact. The conversations, performances, and energy that make ADE what it is are invaluable, offering a renewed sense of purpose and motivation.

As we look to 2025, the promise of another ADE is a powerful motivator, and the anticipation of returning to Amsterdam with the world’s electronic music community is already building. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, there’s no other event like ADE.

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