9 Openly Sober DJs in Dance Music

While sober DJs and musicians are becoming increasingly common, the dance music space is often associated with partying, which can involve alcohol and drugs. Despite this, numerous artists and industry members are striving to alter this perception.

Many DJs have opted for a substance-free lifestyle, using their influence and platform to promote healthier choices. This can range from full sobriety to minor efforts to break harmful habits. At the same time, an increasing number of fans are either embracing some level of sobriety or gaining a greater appreciation for it.

If you’re interested in which DJs are sober, we’ve researched nine artists who have openly disclosed their decision to abstain from alcohol and/or other substances. The reasons behind these choices vary, from religious beliefs and past struggles with substance abuse, to a simple desire for improved well-being and a health-conscious lifestyle.

Illenium

Illenium openly shares his past struggles with substance abuse and now leads a public sober lifestyle. In 2018, he revealed to his fans a previous battle with opiate addiction. This addiction reached a crisis point when he overdosed for the last time, leading him to commit to a life free from drugs and alcohol. His hit song “Take You Down” reflects the dark period he underwent during his struggle with addiction. Now, Illenium has repurposed that energy into a creative flow that inspires his musical and creative endeavors. 

Calvin Harris

Calvin Harris began his journey towards sobriety in 2009 when he decided to stop consuming alcohol. His resolve was further strengthened in 2014, following a life-threatening emergency room visit which resulted in an arrhythmia diagnosis. This event led the DJ to reassess his relationship with alcohol and eventually quit drinking entirely. By embracing a sober lifestyle, Calvin Harris has been able to concentrate on his craft, leading him to become the chart-topping, globally recognized artist he is today. He has openly rejected the party lifestyle and instead, remains committed to maintaining professionalism both on and off the stage.

Kaskade

Kaskade is a devout Mormon who does not use substances or alcohol due to his religious beliefs. Unlike the party persona associated with many other artists, he is sober and is often seen as more of a family man. He told CBS News that, although he is aware some people use substances at his shows, he doesn’t want to discredit those who choose to stay sober like him. “It’s not necessary to be high to enjoy these shows,” he added.

Kai Wachi

Kai Wachi has maintained his sobriety since 2014. His journey began when he was sentenced to prison for two years on drug possession charges. During his incarceration, he decided to change his life by abandoning his drug habits and adopting a healthy fitness routine. Today, his fans know him as a sober DJ with a bodybuilder physique and distinctive dubstep sound. Kai Wachi commemorates his sobriety annually with an Instagram post, advocating for a healthy lifestyle. Celebrating his 9th year of sobriety, he reminded his fans and peers, “You can be in the music scene and still have a good time sober!!!”

Ravenscoon

Ravenscoon, diagnosed with Bipolar II Disorder, has struggled with drug and substance abuse in the past. In a Forbes interview, he acknowledged that achieving sobriety was the most significant challenge in his life. He attributed a robust support network, therapy, and vulnerability as crucial elements of his path to sobriety. Ravenscoon candidly addresses his history with mental illness and addiction, advocating for those on a similar path. Despite being fully abstinent from drugs and alcohol himself, he empathizes with the difficulty others face in making this transition. “I want them [people] to know it’s okay to make mistakes,” the artist added.

Lee Foss

In late 2023, house music DJ Lee Foss announced his sobriety journey on Instagram, planning to abstain from substances until 2025. In his post, he stated, “Thanks to everyone who reached out noticing I looked healthier and happier was something I finally wanted to try for myself not to make others happy.”

Chris Lake

The world-renowned house DJ, Chris Lake, has maintained sobriety since 2011. In an interview with Review Journal, he traced his turning point back to one fateful night in Miami. His drinking that night led to a four-day hangover. He also admitted, “I’m an a**hole when I’m drunk.” Since then, the DJ has turned to healthy hobbies for sustenance, such as rising before the sun to work out.

Steve Aoki

The cake-throwing DJ is openly sober and has acknowledged the struggles touring artists face when it comes to substance use. His decision to become sober came after the death of his colleague, DJ AM (Adam Goldstein), due to a drug overdose in 2009.