How Electric Forest helped these artists blow up

A look inside iconic Electric Forest sets that helped launch some of the biggest names in electronic music.

Hidden in the lush woods of Rothbury, Michigan, Electric Forest has long been known as the place where breakout sets become career-defining moments. For artists like Louis The Child, GRiZ, CloZee, and rising trio Levity, Electric Forest didn’t just host their performances; it transformed their trajectories.

Louis The Child first turned heads with a 2016 Tripolee set that pulsed with color and youthful energy. In just a few years, they graduated to commanding main stage slots, spreading their infectious joy to audiences worldwide. Having played the Forest six times, they’ve become synonymous with the festival’s spirit. Last year, they even shared a heartfelt tribute titled “Ode to Forest,” further emphasizing how pivotal Electric Forest has been in their journey.

GRiZ, perhaps more than any other artist, embodies the spirit of Electric Forest. From early appearances to surprise b2b sets and his iconic saxophone solos, GRiZ grew up with the Forest, and Forest grew with him. His genre-blending sound and emphasis on unity and self-expression have made his sets a cornerstone of the Forest experience.

CloZee’s rise began with a twist of fate in 2018, when a last-minute main stage opportunity allowed her to showcase her genre-defying global bass to a massive crowd. Her earthy, cinematic sound and immersive presence fit seamlessly with the natural mystique of the Forest. That performance catapulted her into the spotlight and marked her as one of the scene’s most dynamic forces.

Then there’s Levity, the trio whose 2023 performance at the Honeycomb stage became nothing short of legendary. Tucked within the forest’s artistic maze, the Honeycomb is known for its intimacy and unmatched vibe, and Levity made it their own. Their set blended melodic bass, live instrumentation, and raw emotion, captivating a packed crowd and igniting buzz across the scene. It was a defining moment that launched them into a new tier of recognition.

As anticipation builds for Electric Forest 2025, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a festival—it’s where moments are made, legends return, and the next wave of trailblazers step into the light beneath the trees. We can’t wait to see which artists will deliver the breakout sets that define this year’s magic.

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About The Author

Alejandra Benitez

My name is Alejandra Benitez and I was born and raised in the DMV. Having close proximity to Washington D.C. means I am accustomed to a fast paced environment as things are constantly changing. For me, the EDM scene has provided so much comfort and space to really find myself even amongst chaos. My first ever show was Zeds Dead and it truly changed my outlook on community and further affirmed my love for music. I am a basshead at heart but enjoy exploring new genres and artists. Being a writer for Exron has given me an amazing opportunity to learn more about the electronic music industry and I love being able to express myself creatively. Some of my favorite artists include Levity, Rezz, Tape B, Disco Lines, and Sub Focus.

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