Nicole Moudaber claims DJs ‘have lost artistry’ in recent podcast

Techno powerhouse Nicole Moudaber opens up about sustaining an evolving career while warning that many modern DJs have become “clowns” on stage, sacrificing musical quality.

Nicole Moudaber, a techno icon, shared a candid critique of today’s DJ culture. She voiced her thoughts on Katie Knight’s Can U Put Me On Guestlist? podcast. Moudaber claimed that many DJs “have lost artistry” and focus more on spectacle than substance.

Long before she became an international headliner, Moudaber was working behind the scenes as a promoter. She booked other artists and built relationships that became creative partnerships and friendships. That foundation helped her carve out her own lane in the techno realm

When asked about sustaining success, Moudaber stressed the importance of authenticity. “I think people are losing the artistry,” she told Knight. “Instead of focusing on being true artists, many are turning into characters and actors on stage. It almost feels like comedy at times, like watching clowns perform, and in the process, the quality of the music gets lost.” Her words cut deep into an industry where production values and Instagram moments often outweigh the music itself.

The conversation also touched on Ibiza, a scene that has evolved dramatically over the years. For Moudaber, survival as an artist means adapting without diluting your essence. She pointed out that chasing trends may bring a quick rise, but only genuine artistry ensures relevance in the long run.

Of course, it wasn’t all heavy talk. The Queen of Techno lit up when discussing her love of fast cars, a passion that mirrors the speed, intensity, and adrenaline of her DJ sets . That personal spark is part of what keeps her energy authentic on stage.

Moudaber’s take is a wake-up call for the next generation. Spectacle has its place, but if DJs want to last, the music has to come first. The lesson? The lights will fade, the smoke will clear, but artistry, if you nurture it, will always cut through the noise.

Featured image courtesy of Nicole Moudaber’s Facebook

About The Author

Rudney Novaes

I’m a professional film photographer with a deep passion for the hypnotic beats of house and techno. Growing up in a family of musicians, I developed an ear for melody and rhythm, which fuels my love for always exploring emerging & current artists in the electronic music scene. My favorite DJs—Stephan Bodzin, KREAM, Adriatique, Mathame, Apashe, and Cassian—are constant sources of inspiration. Beyond photography, I’m a writer who loves to share insights and opinions about the music that moves me, always diving into the evolving world of EDM.

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