For the first time in its history, the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs awards ceremony took place live in Ibiza, transforming the brand-new UNVRS club into the beating heart of the global electronic music scene. The evening combined spectacle, music, and celebration, culminating in David Guetta being crowned the world’s number one DJ.
Guetta described the win as an “immense honor,” explaining his deep connection to music:
“Winning the Top 100 DJs again, for a joint-record fifth time, is an honor. It means a lot to me because the greatest feeling in my life is truly playing new music for people and seeing their reactions. It might sound crazy, but I still make music every single day because I see it as a hobby and a passion. The most exciting thing for me is being creative and going away from what everyone else is doing.”
During the evening, Guetta delivered a two-hour headline set, alongside an eclectic international lineup that included Armin van Buuren, Miss Monique, Boris Brejcha, Indira Paganotto, and Jazzy, taking the audience on a musical journey spanning multiple genres and atmospheres.
Awards and Special Recognitions
The ceremony, hosted by Arielle Free, celebrated the leading figures of the electronic music world, recognizing both established legends and emerging talent. The title of World’s No.1 DJ was awarded to Guetta, while Armin van Buuren was crowned Best Trance DJ and received the Outstanding Contribution Award, honoring a career that continues to inspire generations globally.
Emerging talent also shone during the ceremony: Michael Bibi received the Highest New Entry Award, Sara Landry was recognized as the World’s No.1 Hard DJ, and rising star Jazzy was awarded Future Star. The duo Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike confirmed their prominence with the World’s No.1 DJ Group award. Genre-specific accolades went to Charlotte de Witte (World’s No.1 Techno DJ) and FISHER (World’s No.1 House DJ), while Solomun received the Highest Climber Award, symbolizing his continuous rise. These awards reflect the diversity and richness of the global electronic scene, celebrating innovation and creativity across genres.
Italy Among the Top 100
The 2025 Top 100 also brought great news for Italy, represented by three artists who showcase the nation’s vibrant electronic scene. Anyma (Matteo Milleri) secured 10th place, cementing his position on the international stage with a project that blends melody and immersive technology. Deborah De Luca, at 60th place, continues to represent Italian techno on the world stage with powerful, signature sets. Veteran Giuseppe Ottaviani placed 89th, maintaining artistic consistency and passion for trance that make him a historic figure in the Italian scene.
New Entries and Fresh Talent
The 2025 Top 100 welcomed numerous new entries, highlighting the evolving landscape and generational shift in electronic music: Michael Bibi, Hugel, Lilly Palmer, Nico Moreno, Artbat, Miss Monique, I Hate Models, Chris Stussy, Fantasm, Chris Lake, Nils Van Zandt, and Marlon Hoffstadt. From melodic house to experimental techno, bass, electro, and trance, these artists embody the vitality and creativity driving contemporary electronic music.
Strong Presence of Female DJs
This year’s ranking also underlines the growing influence of female DJs at the top of the global scene. Artists such as Charlotte de Witte, Peggy Gou, Amelie Lens, Miss Monique, Lilly Palmer, Sara Landry, and the duo Nervo demonstrate that women are no longer exceptions but influential trendsetters, shaping sounds and leading international audiences.
Social Commitment: Bridges for Music
A notable aspect of the 2025 ceremony was the fundraising effort in support of Bridges for Music, an NGO and music academy based in the Langa township, South Africa. The campaign, backed by featured artists, raised £149,442, enough to fund the musical education of 134 students. The initiative combines music training, mental health support, and entrepreneurial tools, providing tangible opportunities for young people from underserved communities.
A Future Increasingly Global and Inclusive
The 2025 DJ Mag Top 100 DJs edition was more than a ranking—it was a statement about contemporary electronic music: a universal language embracing styles, genres, cultures, and innovation.
As Guetta noted, “everything is cyclical,” and the key lies in constant reinvention. From pioneers redefining their art to new generations pushing boundaries, Ibiza provided the perfect stage to celebrate a historic moment and signal the future direction of the global scene.
