DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs Of 2017 Revealed!
What's up, music lovers and fellow ravers! Today, we're diving deep into a topic that gets the electronic music community buzzing every single year: the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list for 2017. You guys know the drill – this is the one that sparks debates, elicits cheers, and sometimes, a bit of head-scratching. It’s the definitive, fan-voted ranking that aims to capture the pulse of the global DJ scene. Back in 2017, the competition was fierce, with established titans battling it out against rising stars. This list isn't just about who played the biggest festivals or sold the most records; it’s a testament to fan engagement, global reach, and the sheer impact these artists had on the dancefloor throughout the year. So, grab your headphones, crank up the volume, and let's take a trip down memory lane to see who dominated the decks and captured the hearts (and votes!) of electronic music fans worldwide during that epic year. We'll be breaking down the highlights, the surprises, and what this ranking truly signifies in the ever-evolving landscape of electronic dance music.
The Reigning Champion and Top Contenders in 2017
Let's cut to the chase, guys! The biggest news from the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs of 2017 was the crowning of Martin Garrix as the World's No. 1 DJ. This was a massive moment, folks, as he dethroned Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, who had held the top spot the previous year. Garrix's meteoric rise continued with this victory, cementing his status as a global superstar. His infectious energy, massive festival anthems, and incredible stage presence clearly resonated with voters. He was everywhere in 2017, from the main stages of Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival to intimate club gigs, always bringing an electrifying performance. It's easy to see why fans connected with his sound and his undeniable passion for music. His hit tracks, like "Scared to Be Lonely" featuring Dua Lipa, dominated airwaves and dancefloors, proving his versatility beyond just high-energy EDM bangers. This win wasn't just a personal achievement for Garrix; it was a signal that a new generation of DJs was truly taking the reins of the electronic music scene, driven by a powerful connection with their fanbase.
Following closely behind, we saw the consistent powerhouses. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike secured a very respectable second place, showing their enduring popularity and massive global following. These guys are festival staples, known for their incredible crowd control and anthemic tracks that always ignite a party. Even without the top spot, their presence in the upper echelons of the list speaks volumes about their consistent impact. Then came Hardwell, another titan of the EDM scene, who landed in third. Hardwell has been a consistent force for years, renowned for his energetic sets and his "Hardwell On Air" radio show, which has a massive reach. His ability to deliver powerful, uplifting music has earned him a dedicated legion of fans who faithfully cast their votes year after year. These top three represent a blend of massive commercial success, relentless touring, and a deep connection with their supporters, demonstrating the key ingredients that make a DJ a global phenomenon in the eyes of the fans.
The rest of the top 10 in 2017 also featured a familiar and formidable lineup. Armin van Buuren, the trance legend, continued his reign as a top-tier artist, always bringing his signature melodic sound and captivating performances. David Guetta, a true industry icon, remained a force to be reckoned with, his genre-bending hits and global appeal ensuring his continued presence at the top. Tiësto, another veteran who has successfully navigated the changing tides of electronic music, also maintained a strong position. The list really showed that while new talent is always emerging, the established artists with a proven track record and a consistent output of quality music and engaging performances have a loyal fanbase that keeps them in the running year after year. It’s a testament to their longevity and their ability to adapt and stay relevant in such a dynamic industry. The DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 results were a clear indication of who was capturing the imagination of dance music fans globally.
Surprises and Rising Stars in the 2017 Rankings
Now, let's talk about the exciting stuff – the shake-ups and the newcomers that made the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 list so compelling, guys! While the established giants always command a significant portion of the votes, this list is also a fantastic barometer for emerging talent and artists who are making serious waves. One of the most talked-about moves in 2017 was the impressive climb of several artists who have been pushing the boundaries of house and techno. These genres, often seen as more underground, were gaining massive traction, and their leading figures were climbing the ranks. This highlighted a growing appreciation among fans for diverse sounds beyond the typical big-room EDM that had dominated for years. It showed that the voting public was becoming more adventurous and open to a wider spectrum of electronic music.
We saw artists known for their deep, groovy sets and innovative productions start to break into higher positions. Their inclusion wasn't just about playing massive festivals; it was about their consistent quality in smaller, more intimate venues, their groundbreaking releases on respected labels, and their ability to create a unique atmosphere that truly connects with a dedicated following. These artists often build their fanbase through authentic engagement, word-of-mouth, and a deep respect for the craft of DJing and music production. Their rise is a win for the diversity of electronic music, proving that you don't need to conform to a specific sound to achieve global recognition. The DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 list was a clear indicator of this shift, celebrating artists who were bringing fresh energy and innovative sounds to the forefront of the global scene.
Furthermore, the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 also saw some significant jumps from artists who had been steadily building their careers. These were the guys and gals who had been putting in the work for years, honing their skills, releasing killer tracks, and touring relentlessly. Their ascent into the higher echelons of the list was a validation of their hard work and dedication. It's always inspiring to see artists who might not have had a massive chart-topping single but have cultivated a devoted fanbase through sheer talent and consistency. Their journey often involves playing countless club nights, supporting bigger artists, and gradually building a reputation for delivering top-notch performances every single time. This kind of organic growth is incredibly valuable in the music industry, as it often leads to a more loyal and engaged fanbase.
There were also, as always, a few surprise entries that made people do a double-take. These might have been artists who experienced a sudden surge in popularity due to a viral hit, a critically acclaimed album, or a particularly standout performance at a major event. These moments are what make the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 so unpredictable and exciting. They remind us that the landscape of electronic music is constantly shifting, with new heroes emerging all the time. It’s a beautiful thing to witness the industry evolve and to see different styles and artists gain the recognition they deserve. The DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 rankings truly captured this dynamic spirit, celebrating both the established legends and the bright new stars who were shaping the future of dance music. It’s a snapshot in time, but a powerful one, showcasing the diverse talent that makes our global music community so vibrant and exciting.
What the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 Meant
So, what’s the big deal about the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 list, guys? Beyond the bragging rights and the glossy magazine covers, this ranking serves as a significant cultural marker within the electronic dance music world. It’s more than just a popularity contest; it’s a reflection of the collective voice of the fans, the very people who fuel the global dance music industry. In 2017, the list provided a fascinating snapshot of who was truly resonating with audiences on a massive scale. The fact that Martin Garrix, a relatively young artist, took the top spot indicated a powerful shift. It signaled that fresh talent, combined with infectious energy and a strong connection to the youth demographic, could indeed conquer the established hierarchy. His win wasn't just about his music; it was about his relatable persona and his ability to connect with fans on platforms like social media, fostering a sense of community around his brand.
The DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 results also highlighted the growing diversity within electronic music. As we touched upon earlier, the increased visibility of artists from house, techno, and other more nuanced genres demonstrated a maturing fanbase. People weren't just voting for the biggest festival headliners anymore; they were actively seeking out and supporting artists who offered unique sonic experiences and pushed creative boundaries. This broadens the appeal of electronic music as a whole, encouraging more experimentation and innovation from artists looking to make their mark. It means that the future of dance music is looking incredibly varied and exciting, with room for all sorts of sounds and styles to flourish. This inclusivity is vital for the genre's continued growth and evolution, ensuring it remains fresh and relevant.
Furthermore, the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 underscored the importance of global reach and consistent touring. The artists who consistently appeared at the top were those who were not only producing hit tracks but were also performing across the globe, connecting with fans in every corner of the world. This dedication to touring builds a loyal following and creates a tangible presence that transcends digital platforms. It’s about the live experience, the energy of the crowd, and the unforgettable moments created on the dancefloor. These DJs are ambassadors for electronic music, bringing their sound and culture to diverse audiences and fostering a sense of unity through shared musical experiences. Their relentless schedules and commitment to their craft are truly inspiring, showcasing the dedication required to maintain a position at the pinnacle of the industry.
Ultimately, the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs 2017 list was a celebration of the artists who shaped the soundscape of that year and the passionate fanbase that supported them. It validated the hard work, creativity, and dedication of DJs worldwide. Whether you agreed with every placement or not, the list served its purpose: to engage, to inspire, and to provide a definitive – albeit subjective – ranking of the DJs who mattered most in 2017. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect people and to the enduring appeal of the DJ as a cultural icon. We look forward to seeing how these trends continue to evolve in the years to come, but for now, let's give a nod to the incredible talent that made 2017 such a memorable year in dance music history.
