Keeping our year-end series going strong, following our Top Original Tracks and our Top 20 Remixes, we now present to you the Top 5 Breakout Artists of 2023. These artists emerged into the spotlight this year with the utmost ferocity. If you haven’t heard of them yet (although highly unlikely) check them out, as these five artists are on the verge of massive stardom. Read on for our picks for Top 5 Breakout Artists of 2023.
5. Le Youth
Fondly referred to as “the people’s DJ” by his most loyal fans, Le Youth is unapologetically fearless when challenging the status quo. After releasing his debut album, Reminders, in 2022, the producer came to play in 2023 with the release of his acclaimed sophomore album, About Us. He’s sold out countless stops across North America on his 30-date About Us tour and continues to mesmerize fans with his expressive and melodic style of production. He’s also been a staple on the beloved This Never Happened imprint for years; clearly this producer has found his niche as 2023 has truly propelled him to stardom.
4. Agents of Time
Agents Of Time may have gotten their start a few years ago, but this Italian duo has made quite an impact in 2023. With a consistent string of impressive releases throughout the year, including ‘Zodiac‘ and ‘It’s All Good,’ they’ve been put on the map and they’re here to stay. With talent and innovation that shines through in every track, album, and live set, Agents Of Time are masters of their sound and worthy additions to this year’s top breakout artist list.
3. Chris Avantgarde
Thanks to his recent ventures with Anyma, including ‘Simulation‘ and ‘Eternity‘, as well as his triumphant return to Afterlife with his latest release, ‘Perception‘ Chris Avantgarde continues to impress with each new release, proving this rising star is here to stay. Classically trained and proficient with multiple instruments, Avantgarde is not just a DJ; he’s a multi-talented and innovative musician. If that wasn’t enough of a resume, he also writes and produces for major pop artists and creates scores for video game titles. He also manages his own imprint, entitled VNTGRD. Keep your eye on Chris Avantgarde in the coming year, as this man has proved himself to be a force.
2. Mau P
I don’t think there are any surprises that Mau P has made this list. His name has been on everyone’s lips for months during this stellar breakout year from the up-and-comer. His name first started trending in 2022 with his mega-hit, ‘Drugs From Amsterdam,’ and he’s followed it up this year with hit after hit like ‘Dress Code,‘ ‘Gimme That Bounce,’ and an official ‘Ray Of Solar‘ Remix. Fresh off two EDMA (Electronic Dance Music Award) wins for House Song of The Year and Dance Song Of The Year for ‘Drugs From Amsterdam,’ Mau P continues to rise with his energetic mix of house and techno, clearly making his mark on the scene. We expect more big things from this one in 2024, so stay tuned.
1. Eli Brown
Although no stranger to the scene, Eli Brown took off this year, with hit singles like ‘Diamonds On My Mind‘ and ‘Be The One.’ A force to be reckoned with in the house realm, his records have made an impact upon a flurry of industry heavyweights, including Carl Cox, Green Velvet, Fisher, Claude VonStroke, Black Madonna, Denis Sulta, Calvin Harris, and Annie Mac, the latter of which selected an Eli Brown song twice to become the ‘Hottest Record In The World’ on her BBC Radio 1 show. Eli Brown’s success on the radio, admiration from his peers, and banger-studded discography has left its mark on fans in 2023.
Honorable Mentions
While we had to narrow the list down to five, there are a few honorable mentions worth sharing, including James Hype, Mochakk, Sara Landry, Pickle, Rebuke, and Peggy Gou. These artists have all made a lasting impression on fans and industry stakeholders alike, and we can’t wait to see what 2024 holds.