How Social Media and Technology Shaped EDM Culture in 2023

With the advent of AI and other innovations, 2023 was a year for experimentation in EDM

In 2023, the pulsating heart of EDM beats to the rhythm of groundbreaking technology and the omnipresent influence of social media. As a genre that has been constantly at the forefront of technology and innovation, this year saw new techniques and experiences emerge as a way for the genre to push the envelope. From the innovative forays of Disclosure into the realm of NFTs and AI to the rise of influential social media creators shaping the genre, the landscape of EDM is undergoing a transformative renaissance.

Disclosure, the critically acclaimed electronic duo, ventured into uncharted waters with their Disclosure Bronze Editions NFT collection. This pioneering project launched on Beatport’s NFT marketplace, presented 1,000 unique AI-generated versions of their track “Simply Won’t Do” from their latest album “Alchemy.” This melding of blockchain technology with music redefines artistic expression and reshapes fan interaction within the digital music domain.

AI’s impact on music creation heralded a transformative shift in the EDM landscape. Artists like Grimes and David Guetta viewed AI as a new canvas for creativity, while others, such as Anyma and Jai Wolf, used AI to enhance their production and visuals. However, this innovation also sparked controversies and legal challenges, as seen in the “Fake Drake” incident. The industry responded with cautious optimism, recognizing AI’s potential for enhancing creativity while underscoring the need for responsible usage, copyright protection, and ethical considerations. This complex dynamic between AI and music reflects a pivotal moment in the industry, balancing the excitement of technological possibilities with the challenges of integrating AI into the creative process.

The omnipresent influence of social media in the EDM landscape is undeniable. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become the crucibles of EDM news and artistic discovery. Accounts have utilized these platforms to their fullest, transforming them into dynamic forums for EDM enthusiasts. They’ve cultivated vibrant, interactive communities through engaging content, ranging from showcasing emerging tracks and artists to giving behind-the-scenes looks at festivals and Q&A sessions. Individual accounts such as @DannyIllenium on TikTok gave real-time updates on unfolding news such as what happened at Electric Zoo this year. Their efforts illustrate the power of social media in connecting artists and fans, creating a shared space for the exploration and celebration of EDM culture.

2023 also marked a significant milestone in virtual reality (VR) experiences in EDM, with Meta partnering with stars like Alison Wonderland, ZHU, and Louis The Child for a series of virtual concerts in Horizon Worlds. This collaboration highlights the increasing integration of VR in live music experiences, offering fans immersive and interactive shows. Alison Wonderland’s performances at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre were scheduled for December 18 and 30, showcasing tracks like “I Want U,” “Run,” and “Forever” in a stunning VR setting. This innovative approach to concerts exemplifies how EDM artists have utilized VR technology to create unique, enveloping experiences for their fans this past year.

In this transformative year for EDM, the fusion of cutting-edge technology and the dynamic world of social media has not only reshaped the genre’s landscape but also reaffirmed its position as a leading edge of cultural innovation. The convergence of these elements is redefining the way music is made and enjoyed and heralding a new epoch in the ever-evolving narrative of electronic dance music.