By 2017, the global DJ landscape had matured, with clearer gear standards, streaming integrations, and more polished live show expectations. This overview helps you identify the best DJs who defined that year across genres and markets.
The following summary highlights standout DJs, their signature styles, main markets, typical gear, and booking price ranges to support fast, informed decisions.
| DJ | Primary Genre | Key Markets (2017) | Typical Gear | Booking Range USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| David Guetta | EDM / House | Europe, North America, Asia | Numark Mixstream Pro, Pioneer DDJ-WeGo, Traktor | 300,000–600,000 per show |
| Skrillex | Dubstep / Bass | USA, UK, Japan, Australia | MacBook, MIDI controllers, Ableton Live | 250,000–500,000 per show |
| Carl Cox | Techno | Ibiza, Berlin, London, Asia | Rekordbox, CDJs, analog synth rigs | 150,000–300,000 per show |
| Honey Dijon | House / Deep House | Chicago, New York, Paris, Berlin | Traktor, mixers, vintage percussion | 30,000–70,000 per show |
| Flume | Electronic / Future Bass | Australia, North America, Europe | Laptop, MIDI pads, custom FX | 70,000–150,000 per show |
Global EDM Trends in 2017
Throughout 2017, electronic dance music consolidated its mainstream position, with festival circuits and arena tours setting new benchmarks for production quality. The best DJs balanced big-room drops with nuanced techno and house sets, appealing to both casual listeners and seasoned collectors.
Streaming data and festival lineups showed that audience expectations were higher than ever, pushing performers to refine their touring rigs and visual design. Strong branding and reliable playback techniques became essential for standing out in a crowded marketplace.
Techno and Underground Scene Highlights
Underground Innovators
In underground clubs across Berlin, Amsterdam, and Detroit, selectors leaned toward deeper, longer mixes, emphasizing groove over peak-time moments. Carl Cox and younger talents such as Marcel Dettmann underscored the continued importance of crate-digging and live interpretation.
Techno Equipment Choices
Many techno-focused DJs prioritized sturdy CDJs, analog sequencers, and mixers that allowed tactile control, minimizing latency and ensuring seamless transitions between tracks.
House, Disco, and Genre Fluidity
House Music Momentum
House veterans like Honey Dijon expanded influence in 2017 by blending Chicago roots with contemporary production, drawing diverse crowds in cities from São Paulo to Seoul.
Cross-Genre Experimentation
Artists such as Kaytranada and Fisher fused house with hip-hop, funk, and tech-house, demonstrating how genre boundaries were increasingly porous and how adaptable mixing skills had become.
Equipment and Production Trends
The best DJs in 2017 relied on a combination of controllerism, vinyl, and hybrid setups, supported by advanced sync and loop tools. Native instruments, MIDI mapping, and high-resolution sample libraries enabled tighter live remixes and fewer playback issues.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring and Working DJs
- Invest in reliable playback tools such as CDJs, controllers, and stable software mappings to ensure consistent performances.
- Develop signature set structures that blend deep selection with crowd reading, rather than relying solely on peak-time drops.
- Leverage streaming insights and social metrics when negotiating bookings and planning release strategies.
- Cross-train in mixing, production, and light design to remain versatile across club, festival, and arena environments.
- Maintain a varied crate, balancing classic tracks with fresh releases to keep sets dynamic and relevant.
FAQ
Reader questions
What defined the best DJs in 2017 compared to earlier years?
In 2017, the best DJs combined polished live production with strong streaming presence, using reliable digital setups and visual design to deliver consistent festival and arena experiences.
Which genres saw the most growth in demand during 2017?
EDM, deep house, and techno saw significant growth, while future bass and cross-genre experiments expanded audience expectations and booking opportunities.
How did equipment choices shift for top DJs in 2017?
Many top DJs moved toward hybrid rigs, integrating MIDI controllers, high-end CDJs, and laptops running Traktor or Ableton, emphasizing low latency and tactile control.
What role did streaming and branding play for DJs in 2017?
Streaming data directly influenced festival lineups and marketing, while strong personal branding helped DJs command higher fees and connect with global audiences.