ADE 2026 DJ Contest Offers 8 Artists a Chance to Perform in Amsterdam

Head Studios and Meritocracy Records are inviting DJs worldwide to compete for eight performance opportunities during Amsterdam Dance Event 2026.

For emerging DJs looking to take their careers to the next level, Amsterdam Dance Event could be the next big opportunity. Head Studios and Meritocracy Records have launched their ADE 2026 DJ Contest, offering eight selected artists the chance to perform during one of electronic music's biggest industry gatherings.

The contest is designed to connect rising talent with international audiences, industry professionals and established music organizations. Winners will join lineups across a series of ADE week events in Amsterdam, taking place from October 21–24, 2026, with DJ slots ranging from 30 minutes to one hour.

Selected artists will have opportunities to perform at venues and events including The Tequila Club, Andaz Hotel, Club Prime and Blend XL, alongside an opportunity connected to Nexus Radio. The program brings together club performances, showcases and industry exposure, giving participants a platform to introduce their sound to new audiences during ADE week.

The initiative is backed by an international network of music and nightlife partners, including Head Studios, Meritocracy Records, EDM Army, Yalla Techno, Amsterdam Nightlife, Nexus Radio and EDM House Network. Together, the partners aim to spotlight emerging talent and create connections that could extend beyond the event itself.

DJs from anywhere in the world can apply, with all musical genres welcome. To participate, artists must prepare a 60-minute DJ mix and submit a link through the official registration form. Mixes can be uploaded to SoundCloud, Dropbox or YouTube as an unlisted video.

Applicants must also complete the contest's social media requirements, including following the designated partner accounts, engaging with and sharing the announcement post, and tagging three DJ friends. Another mandatory step is booking an introductory call with the Head Studios team to discuss their music, artistic direction and career ambitions.

The call gives Head Studios an opportunity to learn more about each artist beyond their DJ mix. The company works across artist management, booking, music production, distribution and digital marketing, while Meritocracy Records focuses on developing electronic music artists through releases, showcases and international events.

Applications close October 20, 2026, with introductory calls required to be booked before October 19. Eight winners are expected to be announced in October. Travel, accommodation, visas and other personal expenses are not covered, and entries that fail to meet all contest requirements will be disqualified.

For DJs hoping to perform at Amsterdam Dance Event, the contest offers a direct opportunity to showcase their music, connect with fellow artists and gain experience in one of electronic music's most internationally recognized industry environments.

Ready to take your sound to Amsterdam?

Apply for the ADE 2026 DJ Contest here