Music Ambassadors Tour 2025: Bearing Witness to War and Cultural Defiance in Ukraine - From the Traces of Destruction to the Revival of Tradition
On December 15-18, 2025, the Ukrainian Association of Music Events (UAME) and its Music Saves Ukraine initiative will hold the third edition of the Music Ambassadors Tour — an international cultural diplomacy initiative that brings leading representatives of the European music industry to Ukraine to show them the role that culture plays in a country living through war. The impact from the first two editions, held in 2022 and 2024, can still be felt now as its participants have become Ukraine’s ambassadors within the music world — loud voices, which can be heard across festivals and professional events, rallying support for the rebuilding of Ukrainian culture and highlighting Ukrainian voices.
During the tour, international guests together with the UAME team will explore Kyiv and travel to the north and the south of Ukraine. For security reasons, the exact routes and locations are not disclosed. The purpose of the journey is to allow participants to witness the contrasting reality in which Ukrainian culture currently finds itself: between spaces where it has been deliberately targeted and physically destroyed by the invaders and spaces where it is defiantly nurtured and restored by Ukrainians despite the challenges war brings.
In the south, the guests will see with their own eyes the destruction brought to communities, their music schools and cultural institutions in an attempt to erase the platforms where the future musicians, educators and cultural leaders are born. Today, many of them remain without infrastructure, instruments and means to continue to educate. These ruins represent not only physical destruction but, above all, a targeted attempt to erase cultural continuity and national identity. At the same time, it will be seen how UAME|Music Saves Ukraine, together with ambassadors from previous tours, helped these music schools by telling their stories and providing them with new instruments and educational materials, giving at least some hope and relief to young music students and teachers, who bravely pursue cultural growth no matter what.
In the north, the team will show how Ukrainians counteract this onslaught on culture and rediscover, preserve and revive Ukrainian music tradition - from the living practice of crafting traditional musical instruments to the work of cultural practitioners who document and recover fragments of lost musical memory. It is not about folklore as a museum artefact, but a living tradition that continues to shape identity even amidst war.
At the end of the journey, a networking event will be held in Kyiv where the participants will meet Ukraine’s cultural community and music professionals, take part in discussion panels where they will share their impressions while discussing how, with joint effort, culture can become a driving force for rebuilding and positive change.
The tour brings together representatives of music institutions, festivals and professional platforms from across Europe.
Among the confirmed participants are
- Vaidas Stackevičius (Lithuania), CEO of M.P.3 Group and co-founder of the Lithuanian Music Business Association;
- Ivan Milivojev (Serbia), co-founder of EXIT Festival and Exchange Ambassador of Eurosonic Noorderslag;
- Pavla Slívová (Czech Republic), head of booking at Colours of Ostrava;
- Mikko Niemelä (Finland), CEO of Ruisrock Festival;
- Maiju Talvisto (Finland), Executive Director of Our Festival and Co-director of shesaid.so Finland;
- Kristīne Kleina (Latvia), Founder of Deep Fried Agency, which specializes in music management and artist development;
- Robbie Tolson (Scotland), social entrepreneur, DJ and founder of Turn The Tables;
- Winston Tifferson (Trinidad & Tobago), Turn The Tables trustee, senior HR/people partner and DJ.
The list of participants is not final and will be expanded further
Music Ambassadors Tour was conceived as a way to speak about Ukraine not through abstract narratives, but through lived experience on the ground and real contact with people who are fighting for their freedom. It highlights the importance of having international voices supporting Ukraine, which drown out the silence that emerges from the destruction brought by war. This is how the team behind the project implements cultural diplomacy: not as a symbolic showcase, but as an experience that continues to reverberate through our international participants, who carry it back to their countries, festivals, institutions and professional environments. An important feature of each tour is the documentary movie, which follows the team and participants on their journey, so that viewers can share this life-changing experience with them.
“We do not want to simply talk about the war. We want the international community to see how war destroys culture — and how, despite everything, culture defies it and continues to resist. This immersive journey makes our guests more than just witnesses; it turns them into real ambassadors of Ukraine,” notes the UAME team.
Importantly, the Music Ambassadors Tour has already resulted in long-term impact beyond the journeys themselves. Thanks to the partnerships and trust built throughout the project, the UAME team has become part of the process of updating music education in Ukraine. Within the framework of the Music Saves Ukraine initiative, music schools across the country received new music instruments and contemporary educational materials. This project was implemented together with the Swiss foundation Culture & Education for Life, which was created by UAME|Music Saves Ukraine ambassador Christof Huber following his participation in Music Ambassadors Tour 2024. In this way, the project has shown how just a single visit to a brave country at war and encounters with brave people fighting for the survival of their country and its culture can leave a lasting impression and inspire the creation of long-term initiatives, which make a real difference in the lives of Ukrainians.
Evolved from a one-time initiative into an element of sustained work aimed at rebuilding and shaping the future of Ukrainian culture.
Follow the tour:
https://www.instagram.com/musicsavesukraine/
Links to visual elements of the tour and photos from previous tours: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Ohhx2f0oFnfLhFo-GtCYmZIRVU8Do8bE?usp=sharing
Watch the documentaries from the first two edition of the project here:
Music Ambassadors Tour 2022 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6olbr0zAUGo)
Music Ambassadors Tour 2024 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGgIXVne2ic)
This project is produced by the Ukrainian Association of Music Events with the support of the Askold and Dir Fund as a part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine - a Driver towards Reforms and Democracy project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia, funded by Norway and Sweden. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of UAME and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the Government of Norway, the Government of Sweden and ISAR Ednannia.
Background information
The Ukrainian Association of Music Events (UAME) is a non-governmental organization founded in Kyiv in 2019 by music industry professionals. UAME works to develop Ukraine’s music sector, create an open and sustainable environment for its community, and promote Ukrainian music both nationally and internationally.
Music Saves Ukraine is a charitable initiative launched by UAME on March 1st, 2022 in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since then, it has been supported by around 100 music events across Europe — from professional music conferences to large-scale festivals — uniting the international music community around supporting Ukraine.
ESNS Festival Line Up Complete For 40th Edition
ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) announces the final 41 artists from all over Europe that will be playing at Eurosonic and Noorderslag. The music showcase festival celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, taking place from January 14 to 17 in Groningen. The complete line-up holds 261 confirmed emerging artists. The selection represents 39 countries, more than ever in the history of ESNS.
Eurosonic line-up complete
With Barbora Hora (cz), Chikiss (by), Dina Jashari (mk), Droom Dit (nl), Etceteral (si), Fauna (se), Flo Naegeli (de), Funky Flamingo Fiasco (md), Goldkimono (nl), Hildá Länsman & Tuomas Norvio (fi), Isak Benjamin (se), Man/Woman/Chainsaw (uk-eng), Mount Palomar (uk-nir), N’famady Kouyaté (UK-Wales), Nusantara Beat (NL), Odhran Murphy (UK-Northern Ireland), Saga Faye (SE), Sofía Gabanna (ES), Susobrino (BE), and YĪN YĪN (NL) complete the Eurosonic line-up, which will be performing from Wednesday to Friday at various venues throughout the city of Groningen.
3FM, FunX, NPO Luister Soul & Jazz
Together with media partners 3FM and FunX, ESNS announces five young artists for Noorderslag: Dylisa (FunX), Fit (3FM), Josua Peter (3FM), Lavils (FunX), and XXJULÍA (3FM). Together, they form the line-up for the talent stage hosted by 3FM, FunX, and Sena.
halfpastseven, JUNO, KAGAMI, Kruidkoek & Joost Oomen, QUANZA, and Sunflower have been confirmed for the NPO Luister Soul & Jazz stage at Noorderslag.
Final names for Noorderslag
Dutch talent Alice Olsthoorn, Fellatio, Frank Arnold, Honey I'm Home, Isabel van Gelder, LUNA, Marilu, Naga Kirana, Politie Warnsveld, and Tom Forever will be performing on the final Saturday of ESNS at De Oosterpoort, completing the Noorderslag line-up.
The Party Committee at Noorderslag
Noorderslag gets off to a good start in 2026. Dutch rapper Donnie opens the festival's Main Hall with a special act, ‘Donnie presents: The Party Committee’. In this show, the biggest Dutch hits of recent years are reviewed, for which the folk rapper invites his musical friends, such as Marco Schuitmaker, Ammar, and Robert van Hemert, onto the stage. With this program, Donnie claims the success of the folk genre in recent years, in which he has played a key role.
Europe Calling
In recent years, ESNS has highlighted individual countries as a focus, but with its new Europe Calling manifesto, the focus shifts to a shared cultural movement. Under this theme, ESNS26 presents a fresh mix of Europe’s most exciting emerging artists. All confirmed artists reflect Europe’s diversity, covering a wide range of genres, languages and cultural roots, from the Arctic North to the Mediterranean and from Central Europe to the vibrant sounds of Eastern Europe. The line-up reflects the full scope of Europe’s thriving music scene.
ESNS26 Tickets
Tickets for ESNS26 are now available. Purchase a Delegate Pass (at a Late rate - rates will go up soon) or a Eurosonic Noorderslag Festival Ticket.
ESNS Delegate Passes include:
- Fast-lane access to 250+ showcases
- Full access to the ESNS Conference
- Networking lounges and hospitality options
- Access the ESNS Delegates Database
- Access ESNS Analytics for up-to-date artist data
About ESNS
ESNS is Europe’s leading platform showcasing emerging European music talent. Every January, Groningen (NL) hosts the ESNS festival and conference, connecting fresh artists with fans and industry professionals.
Year-round, ESNS supports new talent through initiatives like the European Talent Exchange and presents major awards including the Music Moves Europe Awards, the European Festival Awards, and the Dutch Popprijs. It partners with key projects and alliances such as Yourope, EBU and Green Deal Circular Festivals to foster a diverse, sustainable music scene.
Since 1986, ESNS has helped launch careers of artists like AURORA, Stromae, Christine and the Queens, Fontaines D.C., Altin Gün, The Haunted Youth, girl in red, Lykke Li, Joost, The XX, Robyn, Tramhaus, Hozier, Zaho de Sagazan, Judeline, Luvcat, Boko Yout, Kingfishr, Sylvie Kreusch and Arp Frique & The Perpetual Singers.
Contact
For more info contact nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Emma Banks, Ramones producer Craig Leon and Sziget’s Tamás Kádár speaking at ESNS Conference
Topics include activism on stage, corporatization of the music sector, music export and exchange
ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) announces a new wave of conference highlights for its 40th edition, taking place from January 14 to 17, 2026 in Groningen. None other than music agent and co-head of Global Touring at CAA, Emma Banks, producer Craig Leon, Sziget festival director Tamás Kádár and the Director-General of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Noel Curran, are attending Europe’s largest music conference.
One hour with Emma Banks
Journalist Lisa Henderson (IQ) invites music agent and Co-Head of Global Touring at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) Emma Banks to the stage for an in-depth keynote conversation about her career, the music industry and the future of live music. Banks is one of the most influential figures in the global live music business. From her early days in London’s agency scene to leading one of the world’s most powerful touring divisions, she is shaping the touring landscape for some of the world’s biggest artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Katy Perry, Paramore and Florence & The Machine (to name but a few!).
From Ramones to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Producer, composer, and arranger Craig Leon comes to ESNS to reflect on his groundbreaking work as a producer for acts like the Ramones. Leon played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and success of artists such as Talking Heads, Blondie, Richard Hell, and Suicide. Exactly fifty years ago, he produced the self-titled debut of the Ramones—a record that would forever redefine the landscape of punk music both in the US and Europe. Expect rare insights into the making of that seminal album, interwoven with behind-the-scenes stories and vivid anecdotes. A masterclass not to be missed.
Sziget, a new chapter
Director of Sziget Festival Tamás Kádár will be attending the ESNS Conference to talk about the growing influence of large ownership structures across the festival scene. Private equity firms, corporate takeovers and big investment groups are increasingly shaping the future of live music. We’ve all heard the stories: artists refusing to play, the unease surrounding companies like KKR and festivals like Sziget forced to quit after acquisition when profit is not high enough. However Kádár is hopeful: “we are fighting for a new chapter of Sziget returning to its independent roots”.
When activism meets polarisation
Activism in music has taken centre stage over the past year and it’s a key theme at the conference in 2026. As the leading expert on polarisation, Bart Brandsma (Inside Polarisation), will explore the correlation between activism and “us versus them” thinking. Understanding these dynamics and the role that activism plays in today’s cultural landscape can lead to more thoughtful conversations and choices about how actively you want to engage.
Director-general of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Noel Curran will explore the future of public service media and cross-border collaboration in Europe. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Ireland’s national broadcaster RTÉ and an award-winning background in investigative journalism, Curran brings a unique perspective on how media can serve the public good in a rapidly changing landscape.
House of Europe
Located at the heart of the ESNS Conference, House of Europe is the place where different cultures meet and collaborate. European music export offices will bring flavour to the programming, showcasing the best from their regions — from local talent to culinary delights and cultural traditions. European Music Exporters Exchange (EMEE) hosts a session about building bridges through music export and exchange, invitation only.
German Music Export by Initiative Musik invites ESNS delegates to test their knowledge of music “made in Germany”. Meet the German artists performing at ESNS 2026 in short live spotlight sessions, fun interviews, and entertaining quiz rounds. Conference attendees will also discover the new Catalan music scene while sipping on a 30' Cocktail and enjoying Iberian ham, hosted by Catalan Arts and iCat and experience Italy like never before, with Don Pasta’s Food Sound System - Vinyl and Cuisine, presented by Italian Trade Agency, Puglia Sounds, Emilia-Romagna Music Export, Assomusica, Sicily Music Conference and Italian World Music Network.
Bulgarian Music Association, EU NextGeneration and Recovery and Resilience Plan Bulgaria will also bring together artists, managers, festivals, and industry representatives to connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities. After the networking reception, prepare for something that can make some of you laugh, but many to cry; the Bulgarian pepper.
Other featured speakers confirmed for ESNS 2026 include:
Bas Dokter (Agents After All), Barbara Vos (Barbara Vos), Bas van Wageningen (bassist DI-RECT), Ben Wynter (Unstoppable Music, Power Up), Brij Gosai (Pollstar), Canan Yurdakul (EBB Music), Claire O’Neill (A Greener Future), Dorian Perron (Groover), Dr Charisse Beaumont (Black Lives in Music), Dylan Heneck (SubmitHub), Eric Skunck (YouTube), Ernst-Jan Pfauth (journalist, schrijver & media pionier), Froukje (artist), Kevin Cole (KEXP), Koos Zwaan (Inholland University of Applied Sciences), Lesley Grieten (Concert at SEA), Ognjen Tomašević (EXIT Festival), Paulina Parvanov (Austrian Music Export), Peter Verkennis (Stichting Bospop), Roisin O’Connor (The Independent), Ruth Barlow (Beggars Group), Saskhia Menendez (Sassy Records LTD), Tim van der Zalm (Labeltje Labeltje), Tirsa Creusen (Pinkpop), Vasil Gjuroski (Tromsø World).
ESNS26 Tickets
Delegate Passes for ESNS26 are now available at a Late rate at ESNS.nl - Rates will go up soon. Purchase a Delegate Pass
ESNS Delegate Passes include:
-Fast-lane access to 250+ showcases
-Full access to the ESNS Conference
-Networking lounges and hospitality options
-Access the ESNS Delegates Database
-Access ESNS Analytics for up-to-date artist data
About ESNS
ESNS is Europe’s leading platform showcasing emerging European music talent. Every January, Groningen (NL) hosts the ESNS festival and conference, connecting fresh artists with fans and industry professionals.
Year-round, ESNS supports new talent through initiatives like the European Talent Exchange and presents major awards including the Music Moves Europe Awards, the European Festival Awards, and the Dutch Popprijs. It partners with key projects and alliances such as Yourope, EBU and Green Deal Circular Festivals to foster a diverse, sustainable music scene.
Since 1986, ESNS has helped launch careers of artists like AURORA, Stromae, Christine and the Queens, Fontaines D.C., Altin Gün, The Haunted Youth, girl in red, Lykke Li, Joost, The XX, Robyn, Tramhaus, Hozier, Zaho de Sagazan, Judeline, Luvcat, Boko Yout, Kingfishr, Sylvie Kreusch and Arp Frique & The Perpetual Singers.
Contact:
For more info contact: nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
More than 100 emerging artists added to ESNS festival line-up
ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) announces a major batch of 110 acts from all over Europe. The music showcase festival celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, taking place from January 14 to 17 in Groningen. The big line-up expansion brings the number of confirmed emerging artists to 218 for Eurosonic and Noorderslag. The selection represents 36 countries, spanning a range of genres from niche to popular. Discover the line-up via the ESNS playlists or browse esns.nl by country or genre. More acts will be revealed in the coming weeks.
The newly confirmed acts are: Abel Ghekiere (be), Aktiv Dödshjelp (no), Alex Fernet (it), AlexAbril (es), Amanda Mur (es), Ana De Llor (pt), Ão (be), Bana Zahiti (ks), Basht. (ie), Beaks (at), Blair Davie (uk-sco), Brass Rave Unit (nl), Bucket (ie), BUG (nl), chest. (fr), Chibi Ichigo (be), Cinnamon Gum (pl), Clara Kimera (fr), CLARAGUILAR (es), Cordelia (uk-eng), Curtisy (ie), daoud (fr), DIKKE (be), Dressed Like Boys (be), Eileen Alister (ch), Eilis Frawley (de), Emile Londonien (fr), Etta Marcus (uk-eng), EVE+POL (ro), Evita Polidoro (it), Filiah (at), Flora Hibberd (fr), Gabi Hartmann (fr), Gaia Banfi (it), Gaia Rollo (it), GANNA (ua), Gros Coeur (be), Hania Derej (pl), Heath (nl), Hér (pl), Hetta Falzon (uk-eng), Hyphen Dash (ua), Il Mago Del Gelato (it), Inspector Spacetime (is), ISHA (nl), IZABEL (bg), Josh Island (lu), Jules War (hu), Julie Rains (be), KABOUTERTJE PUTLUCHT (nl), Keo (uk-eng), Kodaclips (it), Kombynat Robotron (de), Kordz (ge), KuleeAngee (uk-sco), L.A. Sagne (nl), La Cendejas (es), La Valentina (fr), Laura Agnusdei (it), Leona Jacewska (pl), Les Imprimés (no), LuxJury (at), Majke Voss (dk), Maria Iskariot (be), Min Taka (nl), Muovipussi (fi), mustbejohn (uk-eng), Naarly (se), naya mö (fr), néomí (nl), Neon Lies (hr), Nightbus (uk-eng), Officer John (ie), Omar Dahl (be), Otis Mensah (de), Parker Fans (nl), PISTAMASHINA (bg), Pitou (nl), Plantoid (uk-eng), Pridian (ee), punktò (lt), RABO (no), Ragnar Finsson (fo), Roomer (de), Roufaida (nl), ROYA (dk), SERVO (fr), SexyTadgh (ie), Silvurdrongur (fo), Sink (it), Slate (uk-wal), Solventis (fr), Sunflowers (pt), Swank Mami (no), The Family Men (se), The New Eves (uk-eng), The Null Club (ie), Them Flying Monkeys (pt), Tiago Caetano (fr), tonser (dk), Tracy De Sá (fr), Verde Prato (es), Vojdi (sk), Wesley Joseph (uk-eng), Why Kai (no), Willow Parlo (de), Xenia (es), Yalla Miku (ch), Yong Yello (be) and Yuraa (es).
Europe Calling
In recent years, ESNS has highlighted individual countries as a focus, but with its new Europe Calling manifesto, the focus shifts to a shared cultural movement. Under this theme, ESNS26 presents a fresh mix of Europe’s most exciting emerging artists. All confirmed artists reflect Europe’s diversity, covering a wide range of genres, languages and cultural roots, from the Arctic North to the Mediterranean and from Central Europe to the vibrant sounds of Eastern Europe. The line-up reflects the full scope of Europe’s thriving music scene.
ESNS26 Tickets
Tickets for ESNS26 are now available Purchase a Delegate Pass (at a Late rate - rates will go up soon) or a Eurosonic Noorderslag Festival Ticket.
ESNS Delegate Passes include:
- Fast-lane access to 250+ showcases
- Full access to the ESNS Conference
- Networking lounges and hospitality options
- Access the ESNS Delegates Database
- Access ESNS Analytics for up-to-date artist data
About ESNS
ESNS is Europe’s leading platform showcasing emerging European music talent. Every January, Groningen (NL) hosts the ESNS festival and conference, connecting fresh artists with fans and industry professionals.
Year-round, ESNS supports new talent through initiatives like the European Talent Exchange and presents major awards including the Music Moves Europe Awards, the European Festival Awards, and the Dutch Popprijs. It partners with key projects and alliances such as Yourope, EBU and Green Deal Circular Festivals to foster a diverse, sustainable music scene.
Since 1986, ESNS has helped launch careers of artists like AURORA, Stromae, Christine and the Queens, Fontaines D.C., Altin Gün, The Haunted Youth, girl in red, Lykke Li, Joost, The XX, Robyn, Tramhaus, Hozier, Zaho de Sagazan, Judeline, Luvcat, Boko Yout, Kingfishr, Sylvie Kreusch and Arp Frique & The Perpetual Singers.
Contact:
For more info contact Nikki McNeill nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Amsterdam Dance Event looks back on record-breaking edition and announces dates for 30 year anniversary in 2026
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) announces the dates for its 30 YEARS ADE anniversary edition in 2026, which will take place from October 21 through 25. After the conclusion of a record-breaking 2025 edition, with 600,000 visitors and nearly 3,500 artists across its 1,200+ events, the organisation is excited to look ahead to celebrating three decades of Amsterdam Dance Event and electronic music culture next year.
The 2025 edition of ADE has come to an end, hosting nearly 3,500 artists at over 1,200 events and initiatives taking place in over 300 locations across the city. The organisation welcomed a record number of 600,000 visitors, drawing audiences from Amsterdam and the wider Netherlands, alongside visitors from around the world.
This year’s program highlighted a rich spectrum of electronic music subgenres, live performances, and cultural crossovers across the Festival and Arts & Culture programs, emphasising an offering that becomes more diverse and inclusive each year. Standout events included a wide variety of ADE Opening Specials throughout the city, the ‘black queer church’ dubbed PRAISE by Honey Dijon x Audio Obscura at Nieuwe Kerk, large-scale experiences like Klangkuenstler at Ziggo Dome and Awakenings at their new SugarFactory base, all the way to the opposite end of the spectrum with events at SkateCafe, Garage Noord, RAUM, Klaproos, Tilla Tec, Studio Wieman, Lofi, De Bajes, and much more.
New upgrades throughout ADE’s conference, with the added Pro venue Rosewood and the move of ADE Lab to Westergas, were hugely successful with new networking opportunities and programming at Pro, and an entirely new immersive experience for the next generation at Lab. The conference showcased high profile artists, founders, and business representatives - including Skepta, KI/KI, Eris Drew, Chris Stussy, TxC, ANNA, Chris Liebing, alongside Google DeepMind, Epic Games, SoundCloud, Spotify, COLORSxSTUDIOS, Helix Records, Sony Music, Tomorrowland Brasil and many more.
1996 - 2026: 30 Years of Driving Electronic Music Forward
Over the past three decades, ADE has grown to become the most influential breeding ground for electronic music; building the framework that helped a new genre to be recognised worldwide as an art form and a thriving business, into what is now an immense global industry. For its 30 Year anniversary, the organisation will unveil various specials, initiatives and events in connection to the celebrations throughout the coming months.
The ADE 2025 Photo Pack can be found here.
The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture and its industry worldwide. The organisation devotes itself to stimulating development, innovation and talent, gathering the global industry and laying a foundation for future generations.
About ADE
The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), an initiative of Buma, has grown into the world’s largest and most influential club-based festival and conference for electronic music. The event continues to grow and develop each year, featuring over 2,900 artists throughout 1,000+ events in over 200 venues. The five-day event features every conceivable aspect of electronic music culture, with dedicated conference programming, an extensive Arts & Culture programme, live music and DJ/artist performances, all spread across the city of Amsterdam. More information about ADE can be found here.
ADE – Electronic Music Gathers Here
The Amsterdam Dance Event is organised by The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation. Founding partner: Buma
Main partner: Heineken
NB Note for editors - not for publication:
Photos are available here. Please mention the name of the photographer when publishing. For more information or media partnerships contact Nikki McNeill.
ADE Lab set to open its doors to the next generation of talent
ADE Lab gears up to open its doors next Wednesday, welcoming a record number of young aspiring artists, producers, and music professionals. The move to ADE Lab Village at Westerpark marks a new phase for the Conference dedicated to the next generation of talent, with nearly ten venues transforming into one connected creative hub.
Part of Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), the world’s leading festival and conference for electronic music, ADE Lab focuses on education, inspiration, and professional growth for emerging talent. Each October, it brings together future artists, producers, and industry professionals for four days of talks, workshops, and creative sessions.
For the first time, ADE Lab will be housed entirely within Westergas, forming the new ADE Lab Village: a neighborhood where tomorrow’s music industry takes shape. The concept brings all program elements together in one place: from masterclasses and panels to studio sessions, gear labs, and networking spaces.
At the heart of the Village lies WestWeelde, the main stage for ideas and exchange, where key sessions and panels unfold alongside informal meetups at the Lab Living area. Radio Radio becomes the setting for hands-on workshops and vinyl listening sessions, while Pacific Amsterdam takes on a studio-inspired role with intimate masterclasses and the return of the Gear Test Lab and Gear Workshop Room.
Several new partner spaces complete the Village experience. Bakkerswinkel turns into a recording and production space, while Mossel & Gin and Amsterdam Flavours will host smaller-scale events and learning experiences revealed in the coming weeks.
Alongside the expansion, ADE Lab reintroduces its Open Calls, offering new ways for young creatives to take part in ADE. Initiatives such as Incepted, a collaborative writers’ camp with Sony Music, the FACE 2 FACE DJ contest with Seedj and Face 2 Face, and Club Lab with DJ Mag give Lab Pass holders the opportunity to perform, collaborate, and release music on a professional platform. The we.grow mentorship program by shesaid.so also returns, fostering an inclusive space for guidance and connection within the global music community.
This year’s ADE Lab lineup features a cross-section of artists and experts defining the next chapter of electronic music, including KETTAMA, Indira Paganotto, SPFDJ, Ron Trent, and Octo Octa, alongside sessions like Building Your Artist Brand with DJ AG, and Chlär: KERNEL, exploring the intersection of sound and visual art.
With this expansion, ADE Lab reinforces its role as a platform for artistic growth and professional development. The new layout offers more opportunities for collaboration and discovery, giving emerging talent a home base during ADE to learn, experiment, and connect.
The ADE Lab Pass provides access to all four days of programming within ADE Lab Village. The ADE Lab Passes are on sale, alongside individual day passes. Check out the full ADE Lab program here.
ADE is organised by the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture and its industry worldwide. The organisation devotes itself to stimulating development, innovation and talent, gathering the global industry and laying a foundation for future generations.
About ADE
The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), an initiative of Buma, has grown into the world’s largest and most influential club-based festival and conference for electronic music. The event continues to grow and develop each year, featuring over 3,000 artists and 600 speakers in almost 200 venues. The five-day event attracts visitors from over 150 countries and features every conceivable aspect of electronic music culture, with dedicated conference programming, an extensive Arts & Culture programme, live music and DJ/artist performances, all spread across the city of Amsterdam. More information about ADE can be found here.
ADE – Electronic Music Gathers Here
The Amsterdam Dance Event is organised by The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation. Founding partner: Buma
Main partner: Heineken
Contact
For more information or media partnerships contact Nikki McNeill.
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Event PR | Festival PR | Music PR
Beatport Next 2026: Applications Now Open - Championing breakthrough artists at the forefront of electronic music
Breaking into the music world has never been more competitive. Thousands of DJs and producers release tracks every day, but only a few break through. Beatport Next was created to change that: a platform designed to amplify rising voices and help them be heard on a global stage.
Launched in 2021, Beatport Next annually supports 12 artists on the cusp of stardom, playing a pivotal role in elevating this fresh talent and shaping the broader electronic music landscape. The unique spectrum of talent is specifically selected to reflect the future sound of electronic music: diverse, boundary-pushing and representative of the global scene.
From in-store features and content campaigns, to festival stages and industry panels, Beatport Next artists receive year-round visibility and real-world career opportunities.
“Beatport Next gave me the tools to bring my musical ideas to life in ways I’d only dreamed about before.” – Dj Fucci
"Beatport Next has been an incredible support for my music, helping me reach audiences both online and in real life through features, interviews, and the opportunity to perform at the Beatport ‘The Block’ Stage. I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve received." - Ma Sha
“Beatport Next has given me the platform and confidence to push my sound further, from spotlighting my music to supporting live shows in various cities. It’s been a powerful way to expand my reach while championing artists shaping the future”. - SICARIA
“At Beatport, we’re committed to championing the next wave of talent - making sure the artists shaping the future of electronic music have the platform they deserve.” - Teresa Aramburu, Director of Artist Marketing
Beatport Next Artist Benefits
Participants of Beatport Next receive year-long support that spans every corner of the music ecosystem from music promotion, artist bookings, livestreaming opportunities, editorial coverage, brand partnerships and content marketing, to product and music development collaborations.
Examples of benefits include:
- Social Media and Editorial: Curated features across Beatport’s platforms, plus exclusive stories and coverage on Beatportal.
- Live Opportunities: DJ sets, panel talks, workshops, livestreams and brand partnerships.
- In-Store Promotion on com: Homepage placements, banners, playlists, DJ charts and featured releases.
- Networking and Development: Direct access to Beatport’s label, marketing, product and community teams through artist development sessions.
- Music Tools: Free access and partner discounts across The Beatport Group’s brands such as Loopcloud, Plugin Boutique, LabelRadar and more.
Alumni
Over the years, Beatport Next has helped spotlight some of today’s most exciting names in electronic music, including TSHA, Nia Archives, Coco & Breezy, HoneyLuv and Kilimanjaro. Each of these artists joined the program early in their journey, with Beatport providing ongoing support as they’ve risen to international stages and reached global audiences.
Apply Now
Applications for Beatport Next 2026 are officially open here.
Don’t miss this chance to advance your career, connect with new fans, and join a global community that’s shaping the future of electronic music.
Watch Beatport Next Stories 2025 here.
About The Beatport Group
Beatport is the world's largest music store for DJs. Since 2004, it has supported the global DJ community by connecting them with fans and providing the tools to elevate their careers.
Through Beatport Live & Interactive, the brand delivers unique live event experiences that deepen the connection between artists and audiences. Its online editorial platform, Beatportal, celebrates and documents electronic music culture worldwide.
Beatport also leads key community initiatives, including the $150,000 annual Diversity + Parity Fund and Beatport Next, its flagship artist development program, both reflecting a commitment to building a more inclusive, representative, and forward-thinking electronic music industry.
Follow Beatport on YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Contact:
Nikki McNeil | Global Publicity
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Event PR | Festival PR | Music PR
Amsterdam Dance Event completes 2025 program with final names as lineup grows larger and more diverse than ever
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), the world's largest festival and business gathering for electronic music, has just completed the lineup for its 2025 edition. The total program spans over 3.300 artists performing at 1.200 events in nearly 250 venues across its Festival, Arts & Culture, and Friends programs: a new all-time high for ADE’s history.
The final wave for ADE 2025 includes artists such as Actress, Adam Beyer, AfroSalto (Afrojack x Gregor Salto), Amelie Lens, ANNA, ANOTR, Charlotte de Witte, DBN Gogo, GiGi FM, Honey Dijon, Jyoty, KI/KI, Major League DJz, Nicole Moudaber, Pan-Pot, Partiboi69, Paul Elstak, Pongo, Skee Mask, Skepta, TxC, Vintage Culture and many others. The full wave is listed below, and the full program is found on ADE’s website.
Recently added standout showcases
For the first time ever, De Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam becomes a stage for electronic music, with Honey Dijon and ZO! Gospel Choir opening a new chapter during ADE. The Planetarium of Amsterdam’s city zoo ARTIS sees a series of immersive full-dome concerts and screenings. Likewise, music and immersive visuals collide with Stewww at art centre Fabrique des Lumières. ADE 2025 kicks off with six ADE Opening Specials this year, taking place simultaneously on Wednesday, October 22nd, at venues Felix Meritis, ARTIS Planetarium, Door Open Space, Zuiderkerk, Van Gogh Museum, and Melkweg.
Among the final wave of artists and DJs are:
A for Alpha GB About Sofiya JP Actress GB Adam Beyer SE Adrián Mills DE ADRIANNA GB AfroSalto NL Alberta Balsam NL ALISHA GB Amelie Lens BE Angel D'lite GB Anja Schneider DE ANNA BR ANOTR NL Anz GB Arp Frique NL BASHKKA DE Ben Sterling GB Beswerda NL BIANKA VE Biter Babe CO Boris Coelman NL Charlotte de Witte BE Chelina Manuhutu NL Chris Liebing DE Cincity NL Colyn NL D Stone NL D. Tiffany CA Dan Ghenacia FR Dan Shake GB Danny L Harle GB DART IE DBN Gogo ZA De Sluwe Vos NL Denis Sulta GB DIØN NL DJ Bone US DJ Eve US DJ Frank DE DJ Minx US DJ Sweet6teen DE Dyed Soundorom FR Dyen NL Emvae NL Fadi Mohem DE Faustin NL Floorplan US Franky Wah GB GiGi FM FR Halina Rice GB Herve NL Honey Dijon US Horse Meat Disco GB Hot Since 82 GB IDEMI GB Ilario Alicante IT Jan Blomqvist DE Jay Latune NL Jensen Interceptor AU Joëlla Jackson NL Josh Baker GB Juicy Romance AU Julian Fijma NL Justin Mylo NL Jyoty NL KI/KI NL Kirollus GB Konduku NL Laura van Dam NL Len Faki DE Locklead NL Loco Dice DE Luke Dean GB Luna Ludmila NL Luuk van Dijk NL Maara CA Major League DJz ZA Makèz NL Manda Moor FR Marco Carola IT Marhu DJ Marie K NL MARRØN NL Marsolo NL Mary Lake NL Mateo Dufour AR Mike Williams NL Mila Black NL Milion NL MiNNA GB Mischluft DE Mr. Belt & Wezol NL mul/ANNA NL Nalu Music IT Naomi NL NATALIE ROBINSON DE Nausica IT Nedda Sou NL Nicole Moudaber GB Nils Hoffmann DE NZGÛL NL Oliver Heldens NL Orpheu The Wizard NL Orphx CA Osmosis Jones AU Paco Osuna ES Pan-Pot DE Partiboi69 AU Paul Elstak NL Paula Tape CL Peach CA Pete Tong GB Phia NL Philippa Pacho SE Pongo AO Prospa GB Rayzir NL Richie Hawtin CA Sandrien NL Saoirse IE Sarkawt Hamad NL Shimza ZA Skee Mask DE Skepta GB Sonja Moonear CH Speedy J NL Storm Mollison GB SUPERSTRINGS NL Suze Ijó NL Sven Väth DE SYREETA GB Thelma CH Tida Kamara NL Tom Trago NL Toximami DE Tsepo NL Twoef IT TxC ZA Vintage Culture BR Wade ES Wata Igarashi JP Xiaolin HK YAZZUS GB and many others.
Alongside these confirmations that complete the ADE 2025 Festival program, ADE Pro Conference invites world class artists including Skepta x Más Tiempo, KI/KI, ANOTR, Scuba, DBN Gogo, Eris Drew x Modeselektor, Luke Slater x Chris Liebing, Nicole Moudaber, Vintage Culture, Armin van Buuren x Hannah Laing x Joris Voorn, Chris Stussy, KETTAMA, TxC and more. The ADE Pro Pass, which grants access to ADE Pro, is available here.
ADE is organised by the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture and its industry worldwide. The organisation devotes itself to stimulating development, innovation and talent, gathering the global industry and laying a foundation for future generations.
About ADE
The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), an initiative of Buma, has grown into the world’s largest and most influential club-based festival and conference for electronic music. The event continues to grow and develop each year, featuring over 3,000 artists and 600 speakers in almost 200 venues. The five-day event attracts visitors from over 150 countries and features every conceivable aspect of electronic music culture, with dedicated conference programming, an extensive Arts & Culture programme, live music and DJ/artist performances, all spread across the city of Amsterdam. More information about ADE can be found here.
ADE – Electronic Music Gathers Here
The Amsterdam Dance Event is organised by The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation. Founding partner: Buma
Contact:
For more information or media partnerships, contact Nikki McNeill
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Event PR | Festival PR | Music PR
Amsterdam Dance Event Completes ADE Pro 2025 Program
KI/KI, ANNA, TxC, Chris Stussy, Daft Punk Creative Director, Armin van Buuren x Hannah Laing x Joris Voorn, Spotify, YouTube, and more
22 – 26 October, 2025 - www.amsterdam-dance-event.nl
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), the world's largest festival and business gathering for electronic music, has just completed its ADE Pro Conference program. The final speakers include KI/KI, Chris Stussy, DJ Bone, Daft Punk Creative Director Cédric Hervet on the new Daft Punk Experience, TikTok phenomenon DJ AG, alongside Insider Knowledge sessions with platforms Spotify, YouTube featuring TxC, and Epic Games, plus a host of music industry powerhouses. These come alongside Armin van Buuren, Hannah Laing & Joris Voorn together on stage, Voices From The Lake, ANNA, Grammy-winning producer Focus… (Kendrick Lamar, Beyoncé), and others.
With the program now complete, highlights for ADE Pro 2025 include:
• World class artists: Skepta & Más Tiempo, KI/KI, ANOTR, Scuba, DBN Gogo, Eris Drew & Modeselektor, Luke Slater & Chris Liebing, Nicole Moudaber, Vintage Culture
• The biggest platforms & tech: Google DeepMind, YouTube, Spotify, SoundCloud, Twitch, Bandcamp, Beatport, Netflix, Epic Games, COLORS
Top music industry brands: Sony Music, Warner Records, STMPD RCRDS, MOJO, Tomorrowland Brazil, Armada Music, Helix Records, Kompakt, WME, UTA, CAA, Defected, Warp Records, LVRN, !K7 Records, UnitedMasters, No Art
Epic Games | Press Play! The Daft Punk Experience in Fortnite
Hear from the teams at Daft Punk and Epic Games on how they brought the new Daft Punk Experience to life inside Fortnite. With Cédric Hervet, visionary Creative Director of Daft Punk and responsible for the visual universe around their music, alongside Epic Games’ Brett Marks (Music Partnerships Director) and Alex Rigopulos (Senior Director, Game Development - Music).
How to Break Through, Build a Fanbase and Evolve as an Artist
Artists Chris Stussy, KETTAMA & Enzo Sarigusa dive into the evolution of DJing - from underground beginnings to global stages. TikTok phenomenon DJ AG breaks down the playbook behind his 2M followers, how to use the algorithms to build a fanbase. Meanwhile, Helix Founder Patrick Moxey answers the question: “100k releases a day, how do you cut through the noise?”
Insider Knowledge sessions with Spotify, YouTube and SoundCloud
Get inside music’s biggest digital platforms at ADE Pro. In Spotify’s Insider Knowledge on the Rise of Afro House, Spotify Africa RADAR artist Thakzin joins Spotify Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu. Rising Amapiano duo TxC join YouTube’s Head of Black Music & Culture, Sheniece Charway, to share inside strategies to unlock success on YouTube. SoundCloud goes Beyond the Beat: AI, Law and the Future of Music Careers with Ama Walton (EVP & General Counsel) and Jack Bridges (Electronic Music Lead) to chart how AI is reshaping the music industry.
ADE Green: Music, Money, & Moral Lines - with Dan Lambert (Manager Kneecap), Ellen Evers (DGTL / ID&T), Henk Willem Smits (Follow the Money), Ruth Daniel (In Place of War)
When festivals become entangled in global controversies, silence is not an option. Explore the growing pressure on our industry to take a stand on ethics, investment ties, and geopolitical injustices.
These additions join the now complete ADE Pro program with over 200 in-depth sessions on music industry intelligence, strategies, innovations and more. The full program is accessible with the ADE Pro Pass, available here.
ADE is organised by the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture and its industry worldwide. The organisation devotes itself to stimulating development, innovation and talent, gathering the global industry and laying a foundation for future generations.
About ADE
The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), an initiative of Buma, has grown into the world’s largest and most influential club-based festival and conference for electronic music. The event continues to grow and develop each year, featuring over 3,000 artists and 600 speakers in almost 200 venues. The five-day event attracts visitors from over 150 countries and features every conceivable aspect of electronic music culture, with dedicated conference programming, an extensive Arts & Culture programme, live music and DJ/artist performances, all spread across the city of Amsterdam. More information about ADE can be found here.
ADE – Electronic Music Gathers Here
The Amsterdam Dance Event is organised by The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation. Founding partner: Buma
Contact:
For more information or media partnerships contact Nikki McNeill.
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Event PR | Festival PR | Music PR
Pyramid Ibiza Wraps Up the Season with a Legendary Closing Party
As the sun sets over Ibiza, Pyramid is ready to transform the island into a temple of sound one last time this season. With a meticulously curated musical program that has left a mark all summer, the club has proven that the electronic scene on the island is alive and thriving, blending legendary acts with emerging talents who keep the magic of the music flowing.
A space for established and emerging artists
Pyramid has always believed in the importance of supporting the talents that make electronic culture possible. Those who are celebrated today also started from humble beginnings. DJ skills and music selection are crafts honed over time, and Pyramid opens its doors to a wide spectrum of talent, offering a space where established artists and fresh faces converge to create moments of discovery and pure musical enjoyment.
Closing Party: a night you can’t miss
On October 5th, Pyramid invites lovers of electronic music, past and present, to experience its Closing Party, an event carefully curated for an unforgettable journey. The lineup features electronic icons DJ Tennis, Ricardo Villalobos, Adiel, and Ben Sims, joined by Germano Ventura, Sweely and Pyramid’s resident DJs.
From 11 PM until sunrise, the club will guide guests through a musical odyssey from immersive techno to the most vibrant house. DJ Tennis, with decades of experience, and Ben Sims, a European techno pioneer with his signature funky and hardgroove sound, promise sets that will linger in memory. Ricardo Villalobos returns to the terrace for an exclusive B3B with Raresh and Francesco Cinelli, navigating the finest minimal textures, while Adiel closes the season alongside Nina Kraviz in the iconic Main Room, a stage that has witnessed some of Pyramid’s most legendary nights.
Not a Goodbye, but a Promise
This closing is not an end—it’s the threshold to the next chapter, leaving attendees with anticipation for what’s to come. Pyramid may be ending the season in Ibiza, but the music never stops. Every beat, every set, every sunrise tells the story of a night that will echo long after the doors close.
Pyramid Closing Party Tickets [here]
Contact
Nikki McNeill | Global Publicity
nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk
Event PR | Festival PR | Music PR