The DJ Awards Returns to Ibiza: An Independent Celebration of a Season Unlike Any Other

The DJ Awards is back on the White Isle, gearing up for its 24th edition on Thursday, 9th October, with a promise of integrity, independence, and a whole lot of heart. This year, the celebration of electronic music culture finds its home at ROTO Club in Ibiza Town, a chic spot known for its stunning views of the sea and Dalt Vila. But this is more than just an awards night; it’s a statement about authenticity in an industry often dominated by commercial interests, and a gesture of solidarity with an island that has faced recent hardships.

A Night of Recognition and Resilience

As the summer season winds down, the DJ Awards stands as a moment to honor the talent that fuels our scene. What makes this year particularly special is its fierce independence. In a departure from pay-to-play platforms, every nominee was selected by a Grand Jury of over 50 industry experts, ensuring that recognition is based purely on merit. This year’s ceremony, held in partnership with YouTube, Suntory, and Skiddle, spotlights not just the DJs but the entire ecosystem, from behind-the-scenes executives to groundbreaking festivals. However, the celebration is tinged with a somber note. In light of the devastating floods that recently hit Ibiza, the DJ Awards will be donating funds from the ceremony to the Spanish Red Cross (Creu Rojo) to support those affected. It’s a powerful reminder that the spirit of Ibiza is not just about the party, but about community and resilience.

Celebrating the Architects of the Scene: The Grand Jury Winners

Ahead of the main event, the Grand Jury has already unveiled the winners of the Industry Awards, honoring the trailblazers and visionaries who shape our culture. The Industry Executive of the Year goes to Yann Pissenem, the mastermind behind The Night League and iconic venues like Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza. His relentless innovation has truly redefined the island’s nightlife landscape. The Global Festival Award was rightfully snagged by UNUM Festival in Albania, an event praised for its breathtaking location and stellar underground lineups. The MENA region gets a spotlight with Soundstorm Festival taking the “Eye On” award, a testament to its massive scale and influence in bringing dance music to Saudi Arabia. A truly touching moment comes with the posthumous award for Ibiza Icon to the legendary Alfredo, the “Father of the Balearic beat” whose influence is still felt on every sunset-drenched dancefloor. His eclectic sets at Amnesia in the 80s laid the foundation for the island’s musical identity. The Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed upon Simon Dunmore, the founder of the iconic Defected Records, a label that has been a bastion of house music for over two decades. The “Play It Back – Social Impact Award” recognizes the vital work of the Ibiza Preservation Fund, an organization dedicated to protecting the island’s natural beauty. Other notable winners include Yousuke Yukimatsu’s Boiler Room set for DJ Livestream of the Year, the emerging platform UNVRS as “What’s Hot Global,” Solid Grooves as the undeniable Ibiza Party of the Summer, and Toman’s “Verano En NY” as the Ibiza Track of the Summer, a latin-infused house track that has dominated dancefloors.

Looking Ahead to the Main Event

With the Industry Awards setting a high bar, all eyes are now on the main ceremony at ROTO Club. The night will reveal the winners across a diverse range of categories, from House and Techno to the newly introduced Balearic and Hard Dance/Bounce awards. It promises to be a gathering of the industry’s finest, celebrating a season of incredible music and unforgettable moments. More importantly, it will be a night where the electronic music community comes together, not just to celebrate its achievements, but to support the island that remains its spiritual home. As we look forward to the 9th of October, we’re reminded that the beat of Ibiza is one of passion, creativity, and an unbreakable spirit. What will be the defining moments of this year’s ceremony? We can’t wait to find out.

Grand Jury Industry Awards Winners

Industry Executive of the Year:
Yann Pissenem

DJ Livestream of the Year:
Yousuke Yukimatsu – Boiler Room

Global Festival Award:
UNUM Festival, Albania

Eye On: [Region] — 2025 Spotlight: MENA:
Soundstorm Festival

Lifetime Achievement Award:
Simon Dunmore

Play It Back – Social Impact Award:
Ibiza Preservation Fund

What’s Hot Global:
UNVRS

Ibiza Icon:
Alfredo (Posthumously awarded)

Ibiza Party of the Summer:
Solid Grooves

Ibiza Track of the Summer:
Toman – Verano En NY