DJ Awards return to Ibiza in style

AFTER a four-year break, the DJ Awards returned in full force at Chinois Ibiza on October 2nd, celebrating a dynamic mix of veteran and rising talent in electronic music. 

Hosted by BBC Radio 1’s Jaguar and Katie Knight, the DJ Awards 2024 felt more intimate and special, with artists and industry insiders coming together to celebrate a successful year. Laughter and camaraderie filled the room, and the air was thick with excitement as the night progressed.

Genre Winners of the DJ Awards

Black Coffee claimed the Best Afro DJ title, continuing to dominate with his signature blend of deep, soulful sounds. His Afro-house influence stretches across continents, bridging cultures with his distinct approach to house music.

Sam Divine, a long-time figurehead at Defected Records, took home Best House DJ. Her powerful, high-energy sets and her leadership role at Defected have made her a driving force in house music globally.

Vintage Culture won Best Tech House DJ, a genre that continues to explode in popularity. His blend of melodic grooves and punchy rhythms has seen him become a chart-topping figure and a festival mainstay.

Armin Van Buuren was awarded Best Trance DJ, continuing his reign as the king of trance. His “A State of Trance” events and radio show remain defining elements of the genre.

Sven Väth claimed Best Techno DJ, recognised for his decades-long influence on the underground scene. His Cocoon label remains a pillar of techno culture and his magical Catharsis parties at Las Dalias and Akasha in Ibiza have provided a refreshing change from the VIP culture that has taken over much of the island. The return of Cocoon to the island last month to mark their 25th anniversary on the island has been talked about as the best party on the island this year.

Chase & Status secured Best Drum & Bass DJ, showcasing that drum and bass is as alive as ever. Their genre-bending productions continue to dominate both the underground and mainstream scenes.

WhoMadeWho won Best Organic House DJ for their live-instrument approach to electronic music, offering a fresh, genre-defying take that has captivated audiences worldwide.

Camelphat took the Best Progressive House DJ award, following a stellar year with the release of their latest album Spiritual Milk in 2023. The duo has consistently pushed the boundaries of progressive house, blending emotive melodies with big-room energy. Their residency at Pacha Ibiza further solidified their influence. We caught up with Mike Di Scala, one half of Camelphat, where we reflected on their incredible year and teased an exclusive mix for The Night Bazaar.

Special Industry Awards

The Ibiza Icon Award, presented by Ibiza Global Radio, went to Luciano, recognising his long-standing contributions to the island’s underground scene. His minimal, Latin-infused sets have made him an enduring figure in Ibiza’s nightlife.

David Guetta’s “F*** Me I’m Famous” party at Ushuaïa took Best Ibiza Party, while his Future Rave at Hï Ibiza was also recognised for its massive summer success. Both events are iconic Ibiza fixtures.

The Global Festival Award was given to Defected Croatia, which has become one of the most important festivals for house music lovers. With stellar lineups and a stunning location, it’s no wonder this festival has earned its place in the spotlight.

Michael Bibi’s Play It Back Award for his ‘One Life’ campaign was a particularly emotional moment. His campaign, which raises awareness for terminal illnesses, has touched the hearts of many within the electronic music community.

Insights from the DJ Awards 2024

The atmosphere throughout the night was one of mutual celebration. On the terrace, we had the opportunity to chat with various artists while sharing drinks at the bar. Danny Rampling and we discussed a range of topics from Kirk Field‘s Acid House Cabaret to the exciting future of electronic music, including his recent back-to-back set with his son, Claudio. We also spoke to Mikey Slade about next year’s Ibiza Pride, which we will be covering at The Night Bazaar, and we caught up with WhoMadeWho, who shared their plans for The Moment Festival in 2025.

Compared to the last time we attended the DJ Awards in 2017, this year’s edition felt more intimate, thanks to the setting at Chinois. The awards back then took place at Hï Ibiza, which had a grander, but slightly less personal feel. The more relaxed vibe at Chinois created a stronger sense of community among artists and attendees.

No night in Ibiza would be complete without an after party, and the awards at Chinois were no different.  Manu Gonzalez, Ben Sterling, Mathew Jonson, Cristoph and headliner Luciano, closed off the party in style.  We’re certainly looking forward to what next year’s awards bring!