The 14 Most Famous DJs in the World of Music

Deadmau5, born Joel Thomas Zimmerman in 1981, is a renowned DJ from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. His music style primarily revolves around house music. Over the course of his career, he has won 6 Grammy Awards and remains one of the highest-paid DJs in the world. Early in his career, he gained significant recognition on the indie dance site 'Beatport,' with his tracks being included in compilation albums and DJ playlists. He later launched 'deadmau5.com' and began uploading music to SectionZ in 2002.

Gifted with remarkable skills in electronic music, Deadmau5 has showcased a variety of styles in his work and experimented with various forms of electronic music. He has collaborated with several renowned DJs and producers on multiple releases. Deadmau5 is also famous for his iconic oversized mouse helmet and his spectacular live performances. His music is incredibly diverse, earning him the nickname 'The Wizard of Sound' from his fans. Despite his many accomplishments, Deadmau5 continues to strive for excellence and is committed to delivering high-quality music to his global audience.

In 2007, Deadmau5 founded his own record label. He is best known for dance anthems such as 'Ghosts,' 'Stuff,' 'I Remember,' and 'Strobe,' and has explored every corner of the electronic music spectrum. The media often describes him as humble and loyal, a true artist dedicated to his fans. His stage persona, recognizable by his massive 'mau5head' mask, has become a signature part of his performances.

Van Buuren, full name Armin van Buuren, is a renowned DJ, producer, and arranger from the Netherlands. Born on December 25, 1976, in Leiden, he has been active in the music industry since 1995. Van Buuren has made significant contributions to both the DJ scene and music at large. Since 2001, he has hosted a weekly radio show called A State of Trance, which currently attracts 40 million listeners weekly, broadcast in over 74 countries and on 150 FM stations worldwide.

Van Buuren developed a passion for music from a young age, beginning to compose at just 14 and DJing at local clubs and bars. Over time, his opportunities grew, and he shifted his focus from law to music in the early 2000s. Armin has released six studio albums and is widely regarded as one of the most famous DJs from the Netherlands. He has been named DJ Mag’s No. 1 DJ five times and received a Grammy nomination for his track 'This Is What It Feels Like.' In the U.S., he holds the record for the most tracks on the Billboard Dance/Electronic chart. In addition to DJing, he is also a talented remixer, music producer, and pianist.

Another world-renowned DJ from the Netherlands, Tiësto, whose real name is Tijs Verwest, may no longer be young, but his shows continue to draw huge crowds. Throughout his career, he has used several stage names, including DJ Tiësto, Paradise In Dubs, Passenger, Stray Dog, Tom Ace, Wild Bunch, and many others. An interesting fact is that Tiësto even visited Vietnam in 2004 to serve as the main judge for the Heineken Music competition.

Tiësto is among the top DJs worldwide and has held numerous captivating live performances for millions of fans across the globe. It comes as no surprise that he frequently appears on the covers of prestigious magazines. Tiësto has been nominated for a Grammy and is a platinum-certified record holder, thanks to his unique approach to electronic dance music.

Tiësto is also the founder of the music label Black Hole Recordings, which has produced several incredible tracks and albums for music lovers. Some of Tiësto's biggest hits include "Magik," "In Search of Sunrise," "Silence," "In My Memory," "Elements of Life," "Kaleidoscope," and "Just Be." Most of his work has made it into the top 30 of the Billboard Top Electronic Albums chart. With his stunning remix of John Legend's 'All of Me,' Tiësto won a Grammy Award. In addition, he is involved in charity work, having supported several humanitarian campaigns.

DJ Avicii, whose real name is Tim Bergling, was born in Sweden in 1989. He first gained attention for his musical talents on the internet. Avicii started composing music at the age of 16 and began sharing his singles on various online music forums. Soon after, he attracted the attention of a music label. In 2011, he rose to national fame with his single 'Levels.' Two years later, he released his debut album, 'True,' which made it into the top 10 in over 15 countries, including Sweden, the U.S., and Australia. Over the next few years, he toured the world, drawing large crowds and becoming one of the most famous DJs of his generation.

Avicii performed at events worldwide, including Electric Daisy Carnival, iTunes Festival, and Ultra Music Festival. Although he was a young, talented DJ, fans were devastated when he retired in March 2016 due to personal health issues. However, he left behind an enormous legacy with hits such as 'I Could Be the One,' 'Wake Me Up,' 'X You,' 'Hey Brother,' 'The Days,' 'The Nights,' and 'Waiting for Love.' In addition to working with Madonna, he also remixed tracks for Enrique Iglesias, Robyn, and Lenny Kravitz.

Avicii passed away on April 20, 2018, near Muscat, Oman. TMZ reported that he died by suicide, using a broken glass bottle which led to fatal blood loss. Avicii's family issued a statement revealing he left a suicide note. On April 21, 2018, several of Avicii's songs were played in tribute at the Dom Tower Church in Utrecht, Netherlands, performed by Malgosia Fiebig. DJ duo The Chainsmokers and singer Halsey also paid tribute to Avicii at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards.

Skrillex is an American singer, songwriter, music producer, and DJ. His real name is Sonny John Moore, born on January 15, 1988. Skrillex gained fame with his music videos and albums such as "First of the Year," "Bangarang," and "My Name is Skrillex." He joined the American hardcore band From First to Last as the lead vocalist in 2004 and recorded two studio albums with the band before leaving to pursue a solo career in 2007. While with the band, Skrillex contributed to the albums "Heroine" and "Dear Diary, My Teen Angst Has a Body Count."

As a teenager, Skrillex frequented punk concerts in local Mexican-American communities in South and East Los Angeles, eventually moving to clubs in downtown LA where he began playing electronic music. His solo debut tour began in late 2007, and after forming a new band lineup, Moore participated in the Alternative Press Tour, supporting bands like All Time Low and The Rocket Summer, even landing on the cover of Alternative Press' annual "100 Bands You Need to Know." Over the course of his career, Skrillex has won a total of eight Grammy Awards.

Skrillex has also ventured into K-pop, collaborating with the girl group 4Minute. Along with Poo Bear and Japanese-American singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada, he co-produced the opening theme song for the video game Kingdom Hearts III, titled "Face My Fears," released in 2019. Known as one of the most talented artists in the world, Skrillex excels not only in music production and DJing but also in playing instruments and singing. Fans are always impressed by his unique style and the distinct persona of "the little guy" Sonny.

Daft Punk is not an individual artist but a French electronic music duo that rose to prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s. Their innovative sound and sleek presentation helped them become pioneers in the pop-driven electronic dance music scene. The duo consists of Thomas Bangalter (born January 3, 1975, in Suresnes, France) and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo (born February 8, 1974, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France). They are known for their distinctive French house style.

Bangalter and Homem-Christo met while studying in Paris and briefly played together in a rock band called Darlin. However, by 1993, their exposure to nightclubs and the electronic music scene led them to change their direction. They adopted the name Daft Punk after a British music critic dismissed Darlin’s song as “daft punky trash.” Their global breakthrough came in 1995 with the release of “Da Funk.” Daft Punk became a key influence on the French house genre, impacting artists like Air, Cassius, and Dimitri from Paris in the years that followed.

Their debut album, Homework (1997), solidified their place in dance music with the iconic track “Around the World,” which featured electronic vocals that became an anthem. The single “Stronger” by Kanye West, which sampled their track from Discovery, became a major hit in 2007. In addition, their live concert recording, Daft Punk Alive 2007, won them their first Grammy Award in 2009. As electronic dance music gained global popularity in the 21st century, Daft Punk’s influence grew even more apparent, inspiring countless other artists in the genre.

Calvin Harris, born Adam Richard Wiles, is a Scottish music producer, singer, and DJ who is known for his good looks and unique vocal style. He is one of the most successful musicians in the UK pop culture. His breakthrough album, '18 Months,' achieved massive success, with many of his singles charting in the UK for extended periods.

Calvin Harris's musical journey began when he developed an interest in electronic music and started recording demos in his bedroom. His debut album, 'I Created Disco,' peaked at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart, and from there, he created a string of hit albums and singles. His second studio album, 'Ready for the Weekend,' reached the top of the UK Albums Chart, with the lead single, 'I'm Not Alone,' marking his first number-one hit on the UK Singles Chart.

His third album, '18 Months,' brought him global recognition. It topped multiple international charts and reached number 19 on the US Billboard 200. Eight singles from the album, including his collaboration with Rihanna on 'We Found Love,' landed in the UK top 10, setting a record for the most top-10 hits from a single album, surpassing Michael Jackson's record. 'We Found Love' earned numerous certifications, including 9 Platinum certifications in the US (RIAA) and 2 in the UK (BPI).

Afrojack, born Nick van de Wall in 1987, is a Dutch DJ, music producer, and arranger from Spijkenisse, Netherlands. In 2007, he founded his own record label, Wall Recordings, and released his debut album, 'Forget the World,' in 2014. He has consistently ranked as one of the top 10 artists in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list. Afrojack is also the CEO of LDH Europe and has enjoyed tremendous success in his career since 2006.

Van de Wall initially studied graphic design at the Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam for a year before pursuing a career as a DJ and producer. In 2007, he released 'In Your Face,' his first track under the name Afrojack. He gained international recognition with his hit single 'Take Over Control' featuring Eva Simons, which charted in 10 different countries. Afrojack also appeared in Season 2 of 'Behind The Speedo,' a comedy series by Redfoo. His collaboration with Eva Simons on 'Take Over Control' became a chart-topping hit in several countries.

Afrojack was ranked 7th in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs list in 2011 and 9th in 2012 and 2013. In January 2012, he received the European Border Breaker Award. His latest single, 'The Spark,' featuring Spree Wilson, reached number 3 in Australia and New Zealand, and topped the charts in more than 7 other countries. In 2013, Afrojack was ranked as the 7th highest-earning DJ worldwide by Forbes.

Swedish Mafia House has left a significant imprint on the global music scene, achieving remarkable feats that few could ever replicate. In just 8 years, they garnered worldwide acclaim, becoming an icon of the contemporary "progressive house" genre. Their productions have been highly praised by both critics and fans for not only their technical prowess and modern technology but also for the artistic value embedded in every track. This is why Swedish Mafia House has collected numerous prestigious music awards, cementing their place as legends in the industry.

Before Axwell, Ingrosso, and Angello formed Swedish Mafia House, they collaborated with Laidback Luke to produce the track “Get Dumb,” released in 2007 and later remixed by Mark Knight. While the original recording didn't achieve success in the U.S., their subsequent collaboration with Laidback Luke was a hit. The group officially formed in late 2008, ranking 10th in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs Poll of 2011. They were dubbed the "face of mainstream progressive house" and credited for "pioneering the EDM explosion in the early 2010s more than any other act in modern dance music."

With their electrifying beats, subtle branding, and savvy strategic decisions, they quickly ascended to the top of the dance music world. Even after the group split in 2013 to pursue individual projects, their collective presence remained influential, with their high standards still shaping the industry. In March 2018, they reunited for a highly anticipated performance at the Ultra Music Festival in Miami, closing the main stage with an unforgettable show.

Marshmello, ranked next in the global DJ charts, is one of the most distinctive and mysterious figures in the electronic music scene. Recognizable by his iconic transparent box mask, he has created a unique and attention-grabbing persona among fans. Marshmello gained popularity in 2015 with the release of "WaVeZ" on SoundCloud, quickly capturing public attention and becoming one of the most sought-after DJs. His blend of energetic beats and modern electronic music captivated listeners and made him a standout in the industry.

Not only a talented DJ, Marshmello is also a highly influential music producer, collaborating with top artists like Troye Sivan, Selena Gomez, Khalid, and many others. His versatility in working across different musical genres has showcased his creativity and adaptability, enabling him to craft unique and diverse tracks. Marshmello is not just a successful DJ but also a symbol of innovation and the power of electronic music. His mysterious identity combined with his exceptional talent has made him one of the most talked-about names in the modern music industry.

DJ Chainsmokers, a powerhouse duo of talent and creativity formed by Alex Pall and Andrew Taggart, has left a significant mark on the global electronic music scene. Despite their name being associated with smoking, it is merely a title with no connection to the act itself. Their breakthrough came with the iconic 2014 single "Selfie," which quickly grabbed public attention with its unique sound and fresh approach to music.

"Roses," one of their most celebrated hits, propelled Chainsmokers to international fame. In 2017, they not only produced one of the most iconic tracks of the year but also won a Grammy for Best Dance Recording with "Do Not Let Me Down." Their fusion of vibrant electronic beats and catchy melodies cemented Chainsmokers as a force in the global music scene. This highlights that they are not only talented DJs but also top-tier music producers, continuously delivering fresh creative work and captivating audiences worldwide.

Martin Garrix is a world-renowned DJ, music producer, and songwriter from the Netherlands. Born in 1996, he quickly rose to prominence and became one of the leading names in the electronic music industry. Garrix began his career at a young age and caught the attention of young audiences with his series of music releases. His breakthrough came with the 2013 single "Animals," making him the youngest artist ever to reach number one on the Beatport charts. Since then, Garrix has continued to showcase his creativity with hits like "In the Name of Love," "Scared to Be Lonely," and "There for You." His musical style blends energetic rhythms, smooth harmonies, and captivating melodies, attracting a global fanbase.

In addition to creating top-tier tracks, Martin Garrix is known for his dynamic performances on stage. He regularly performs at major music festivals around the world, bringing high energy and excitement to his audiences. Garrix is not just a talented DJ; he is also an active contributor to the music community. Through his platform STMPD RCRDS, he mentors and supports emerging talent, helping them build their music careers. With his enormous influence in the industry and diverse creativity, Martin Garrix is not only a famous DJ but also a symbol of innovation and the power of electronic music.

Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, the Belgian DJ duo and music producers, not only secured the second spot in the DJ rankings for 2023, but also stand as key figures in the global electronic music scene. Their fame extends beyond chart positions, becoming iconic figures at the world-renowned Tomorrowland festival. Starting their careers at a young age, Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike quickly made their mark on the music industry, gaining widespread recognition when they produced the track "Rotterdam City of Love," which became a stepping stone to their immense success.

Not only are Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike known for their exceptional musical talents, but they are also renowned for collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, including David Guetta, Martin Garrix, Hardwell, and many others. These collaborations have produced some of the most famous tracks in electronic music and highlight their versatility and influence in the EDM community. With their continuous drive, creativity, and ability to evolve, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike are not just top-tier DJs, but also pioneers in crafting unforgettable musical experiences for audiences worldwide.

David Guetta, born Pierre David Guetta in 1967 in France, is a world-renowned music producer and DJ. Before achieving worldwide success, he worked in nightclubs. After founding Gum Productions and releasing his debut album, he gained widespread support across the globe. David Guetta's career in music began in the 1980s as a DJ. His first album, 'Just a Little More Love,' was released in 2001 under Virgin Records, featuring vocals from American singer Chris Willis, and another track featured Barbara Tucker on 'Give Me Something.' The title track of the album was showcased in the film 'Football Factory,' starring Danny Dyer.

In 2007, David Guetta released his third studio album, 'Pop Life,' with the hit single 'Baby When the Light,' featuring Cozi Costi. The album's lead single, 'Love is Gone,' became a top ten hit in the UK. His career reached new heights in 2009 with the international success of 'When Love Takes Over,' featuring Kelly Rowland of Destiny's Child. Other notable hits include 'Gettin’ Over You' and 'Sexy Bitch,' which even made it into the top five in the U.S. Guetta has collaborated with top artists like Madonna, Lil Wayne, and Shakira.

Guetta’s company, Gum Productions, also partnered with Apple to create the David Guetta iPhone app, which became one of the top-selling music apps in Europe. In 2010, David Guetta won four Grammy Awards, including Best Dance Recording and Best Remixed Non-Classical Recording for his track 'When Love Takes Over' with Kelly Rowland.