As one of the most electrifying DJs in the game, DJ Diddy has made a name for himself in the hip-hop and Jersey Club scenes. But now, he’s turning his attention to the EDM space—a move that many DJs are making as EDM continues to dominate.
In this exclusive interview, DJ Diddy breaks down why EDM has become the most lucrative genre in music, how it compares to hip-hop, and why he’s stepping into the EDM world.
“EDM isn’t just music—it’s a billion-dollar industry”
You’ve been deep in the hip-hop and club scene for years. Why do you think EDM has surpassed hip-hop financially?
DJ Diddy: Man, the numbers don’t lie. Hip-hop will always be one of the most culturally powerful genres, but EDM has figured out how to turn music into a multi-billion-dollar machine. You’ve got these massive festivals like EDC, Ultra, and Tomorrowland selling out with hundreds of thousands of people, paying crazy ticket prices. And then you’ve got DJs getting paid six figures for a single set. That doesn’t really exist on the same level in hip-hop unless you’re one of the top rappers in the world.
Can you break down the money side of things? How do EDM DJs make so much more?
DJ Diddy: There are a few key reasons. First, EDM DJs dominate the festival scene, where the real money is. Promoters and brands are putting millions into these events, and the DJs at the top get a huge cut. Second, sponsorship deals in EDM are next-level. You see brands like Red Bull, Heineken, and even tech companies investing in EDM culture because it’s global—it appeals to everyone.
Another major thing is the residency game. In places like Las Vegas, top EDM DJs are getting multi-million-dollar contracts just to play a certain number of shows in a year. Compare that to hip-hop, where club appearances pay well, but they’re usually one-off deals.
“Hip-Hop pays, but EDM changes your life”
So, would you say the financial structure of hip-hop makes it harder for DJs to level up?
DJ Diddy: Yeah, hip-hop pays, but EDM changes your life. In hip-hop, if you’re a DJ, you’re mainly getting club bookings, tour gigs, and maybe some brand deals if you build your name up enough. But in EDM, if you break into that top tier, you’re playing major festivals, getting huge sponsorships, and earning way more per show.
Hip-hop is more focused on streaming and record sales. The money isn’t as guaranteed unless you’re a superstar. In EDM, once you establish yourself, the revenue streams are endless.
“I’m making the move because I see the bigger picture”
You’ve been known for blending hip-hop, Jersey Club, and urban sounds. Now you’re stepping into EDM. What inspired this move?
DJ Diddy: It’s about evolution. I’ve done the hip-hop clubs, I’ve rocked the Jersey Club scene, and now I see the bigger picture. EDM gives me the opportunity to reach a worldwide audience and play on the biggest stages. The energy is unmatched. When you see a crowd of 50,000 people jumping to your set, that’s something different.
And honestly, it’s also about business. I’ve always been smart about my career, and EDM is where the biggest financial opportunities are right now. It’s about growing, expanding, and taking my sound to the next level.
“I’m bringing my own wave to EDM”
Q. Will your fans see a completely new sound from you, or will you still incorporate your hip-hop and Jersey Club roots?
DJ Diddy: I’m always gonna bring my own wave. Just because I’m stepping into EDM doesn’t mean I’m leaving my roots behind. I’m blending it all—hip-hop energy, Jersey Club bounce, and EDM production. I want to create something that stands out in the dance music world.
Q: What’s next for DJ Diddy as you enter this new phase of your career?
DJ Diddy: A lot. More remixes, original productions, and some major festival plays coming soon.
I’m working on a sound that’s gonna shake up the EDM world. This is just the beginning.
Q: Any last words for your fans?
DJ Diddy: Yeah—get ready for the next level. This is a new era, and I’m bringing the heat. Stay tapped in.
Follow DJ Diddy’s journey into EDM:
