Bonnaroo 2024- Did all EDM music sound the same ?

Food for thought: Are underground artists losing their support due to the emergence of pop culture EDM? Is the EDM scene lacking individuality and a unique sound? Do all EDM sets sound the same now?

Manchester, Tennessee – Bonnaroo 2024 was a spectacular confluence of music, camaraderie, and high-energy performances that left festival-goers buzzing. With a lineup featuring big names like Fred again.., Disco Lines, Hamdi, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Khruangbin, T-Pain, Alison Wonderland, and many more, it promised and delivered an unforgettable experience. However, amidst the grooves and good vibes, a recurring theme emerged: the echo of sameness in the EDM sets.

The weekend was filled with moments of joy, discovery, and nostalgia, reuniting with old friends and making new ones. Each artist brought their A-game, yet a sense of déjà vu lingered. Despite the varied lineup, I found myself repeatedly hearing familiar tracks, diminishing the unique impact each artist could have had.

Take Hamdi, for example. His set was a masterclass in deep dubstep, with face-melting drops and an electrifying ambiance. Yet, before he even took the stage, his iconic "123 countdown" was played over three times by other DJs. By the time Hamdi himself delivered it, the anticipation had worn thin. What should have been a highlight moment was dulled by overexposure.

Similarly, Fred again...'s Sunday night closing performance was somewhat undermined by the frequent play of his tracks throughout the weekend. While his set was phenomenal, the emotional peak it could have achieved was blunted by the prelude of repetition.

This raises an intriguing question: Have these artists' tracks become so integral to the EDM landscape that other DJs feel compelled to include them in their sets? Or is it a lack of confidence in their original material, fearing the audience's reaction to unfamiliar sounds?

There’s a delicate balance between reading the room and playing it safe. The tendency to over-rely on popular tracks' hooks could suggest that some DJs might be playing it safe; rather than pushing the boundaries with unique, original sounds. This not only stifles the creative expression of the artists, but also limits the audience's experience. Although some may argue it is this the audience's fault.

I encourage fellow music lovers to approach each show with an open mind and no expectations. Untainted by the pressure of familiar sounds. Shedding preconceived notions allows for a richer, more immersive experience, . It’s essential for the growth of the scene that audiences are receptive to new and original material, allowing artists the freedom to innovate and express their true creativity.

All in all, while Bonnaroo 2024 was an joyful experiences. The festival was not without its unique highlights. Disco Lines delivered a set full of infectious energy. Khruangbin set was a rollercoaster of emotion and intensity, showcasing their versatility and melodic craftsmanship.

Furthermore, it highlighted a growing trend in the EDM world that warrants reflection. The essence of live music lies in its unpredictability and raw energy. Let’s embrace the new, celebrate the unique, and keep the spirit of EDM alive and ever-evolving.