After a four-year break, the DJ Awards made a triumphant return to Ibiza. Known as the 'Oscars of dance music,' the event was held at Club Chinois for the first time, after two decades at Pacha. Fisher, Camelphat, and Chase & Status were among the genre award winners, while local icons like Luciano claimed new industry awards.
Hosted by Katie Knight and Jaguar, the ceremony was a glamorous affair that utilized Chinois’ impressive audio-visual setup to mark the awards' stylish comeback. Fisher, the Australian DJ who gained mainstream fame with his Grammy-winning single 'Losing It' in 2018, won Best International DJ. In his typically energetic style, Fisher's acceptance speech highlighted his inspiration from Luciano, whom he watched at a Sven Väth night in Amnesia.
Luciano received the Ibiza Icon award, recognizing his profound impact on the island's music scene. Sven Väth, a techno veteran, won his fourth DJ Award in the Techno category, emphasizing the importance of real dance and good vibes. Keinemusik co-founder Rampa won the What's Hot Global Award and the Ibiza Track Of The Summer for Adam Port's 'Move Feat. Malachiii,' referencing Kanye West's iconic Grammy moment.
In a predominantly male-dominated field, Sam Divine, Róisín Murphy, and Miss Monique were among the women who won awards. Michael Bibi's emotional acceptance of the Play It Back Award for his One Life Campaign, which raised funds for cancer research, was one of the night's most touching moments. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Javier Anadon, the legendary figure behind Café Mambo.
Other winners included Armin Van Buuren, Vintage Culture, Chase and Status, WhoMadeWho, and Camelphat. Industry awards were given to Defected Croatia, Gospel Club NYC, and David Guetta's F**K Me Im Famous / Futurerave.
