Meet the Women DJs Shaping Global EDM
With fresh styles and creativity, these women are leaving a lasting impact on the EDM world
For years, men have led the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, but lately, women DJs have been shaking things up in every sense. These talented artists aren’t just challenging gender norms—they’re redefining the art of music production and live performance. With fresh styles and creativity, they’re leaving a lasting impact on the EDM world, proving that the future of dance music is vibrant, inclusive, and thrilling.
Charlotte de Witte
Belgium’s Charlotte de Witte is a force to be reckoned with, known for her relentless, driving techno beats that keep festival crowds entranced for hours. Her meteoric rise is the result of her fearless approach to techno, embracing the darker, heavier side of the genre. What sets her apart is her ability to maintain underground credibility while headlining major music festivals. Charlotte’s music is characterized by pulsating basslines, acid-laden synths and a hypnotic rhythm that resonates deeply with her audiences. Tracks like “Universal Consciousness” and “Sgadi Li Mi” have become anthems in the underground techno world, showcasing her ability to blend pounding basslines with eerie, atmospheric melodies.
Her performances are not just about delivering music; they’re an immersive experience. As one of the few women consistently playing on main stages, Charlotte, who is also performing in Mumbai on November 24, is redefining what it means to be a techno headliner. Her unstoppable energy and unique sound make her a must-see act, where fans will undoubtedly be captivated by her intense, raw sets.
Peggy Gou
South Korean-born Peggy Gou is much more than just a DJ; she’s a cultural phenomenon. Gou’s success isn’t confined to her undeniable talent behind the decks, but also in her ability to blend fashion, art and music into one cohesive persona. With her background in fashion design and her love for all things creative, she has built a brand that transcends the boundaries of the traditional DJ. Musically, Peggy mixes house, techno and even Korean vocals, creating sets that are as eclectic as they are energetic. Her track “It Makes You Forget (Itgehane)” and “(It Goes Like) Nanana” is a perfect example of how she effortlessly fuses elements of multiple genres, creating something completely fresh and exciting.
What makes Peggy’s rise even more fascinating is her ability to stay true to herself while becoming a global sensation. She’s become a style icon, often spotted wearing vintage or custom pieces and her brand, Kirin, has added another layer to her influence in the fashion world. But at the heart of it all is her passion for music. Whether playing at underground clubs or massive festivals, Peggy knows how to create a vibe that gets everyone on their feet. It’s not hard to imagine her taking the stage at Sunburn Goa 2024, where her eclectic style would undoubtedly add a new flavor to the festival’s diverse lineup.
Amelie Lens
Amelie Lens is a name that needs no introduction in the world of techno. The Belgian DJ and producer has been one of the leading figures in the resurgence of fast-paced, hard-hitting techno over the last few years. Known for her high-energy sets that can last for hours, Amelie has become synonymous with intensity, delivering sets that take listeners on a deep, rhythmic journey. She’s not one to bask in the mainstream spotlight but has instead cultivated a loyal fanbase through her relentless dedication to the underground techno scene.
Her rise to fame is a testament to her passion for the craft. Starting off as a model, Amelie transitioned into DJing with a hunger to explore the more visceral side of music. Her label, Lenske, has become a breeding ground for new techno talent and her performances at iconic venues have cemented her status as a leading voice in the genre. It’s the raw energy she brings to her sets that has made her a regular fixture on the global festival circuit.
Nina Kraviz
Few DJs have made as much impact as Nina Kraviz. The Siberian-born DJ and producer is a true pioneer, known for her willingness to push the boundaries of what electronic music can be. Her unique blend of techno, house, acid and trance sets her apart, as she seamlessly weaves together genres to create a distinct and often unexpected soundscape. Nina’s sets are raw and emotional, reflecting her personal connection to the music and it’s this honesty that has earned her a dedicated following around the world.
Beyond just spinning records, Nina has also built a reputation as a tastemaker with her label, трип (Trip), which has released music from both emerging artists and established names. She’s a musical chameleon, constantly evolving her style and refusing to be boxed into any one genre. Whether it’s an intimate club set or a performance at a massive festival, Nina’s presence behind the decks is commanding and unpredictable.
Korolova
Ukraine’s own Korolova has rapidly become one of the most exciting names in melodic house and techno. Bursting onto the scene with her deeply emotional and melodic productions, Korolova has earned millions of streams on platforms like YouTube and Spotify in a very short span of time. Tracks like “Sweet Disposition” and “As It Was” showcase her ability to craft emotionally uplifting yet dance-floor-driven anthems, with rich melodies that resonate deeply with her listeners.
Korolova’s rise has been fuelled by her impressive technical skills as a DJ and her ability to connect emotionally with her audience. Whether she’s playing in intimate venues or on the grand stages of Europe, Korolova’s melodic sets leave a lasting impression. With her growing global presence, fans are sure to keep her on their radar as she continues to ascend in the EDM world.
From deep techno to soulful house, these five women are not just DJs—they are trailblazers redefining the global EDM scene. As they continue to break new ground, fans can look forward to seeing these phenomenal artists dominate stages at festivals worldwide, including Sunburn Goa 2024, where the lineup is expected to showcase the very best that electronic music has to offer.