Escapade Music Festival 2025 is set to light up Ottawa from June 20–22 at the RA Centre Grounds, celebrating its 15th anniversary with a stellar lineup of electronic music artists . Here are ten must-see acts that promise unforgettable performances:
1. HNTR
Toronto’s HNTR is a Juno Award-winning producer and the force behind the No Neon brand, known for its dark, melodic techno and house events. His recent track “Victory” showcases his signature style, blending atmospheric elements with driving beats. HNTR’s sets are a journey through deep, pulsating rhythms that captivate the dance floor.
2. The Chainsmokers
The Chainsmokers, an American DJ and production duo, have consistently delivered chart-topping hits that blend pop sensibilities with electronic beats. Their collaboration with Kim Petras on “Don’t Lie” continues this trend, offering infectious melodies and danceable rhythms. Known for their high-energy performances, they bring a dynamic presence to any festival stage.
3. Rose Motion
Rose Motion is the electric fusion of sexy tech house and emotional melodic bangers. This Aussie-Canadian couple brings main character energy, with sets that feel like sunrise beach raves colliding with chaotic 3AM warehouse magic. Their euphoric performances are leaving a mark across Canada — unforgettable, unmissable.
4. Subtronics
One of the leading taste makers of the global dubstep scene, known for his innovative sound design, mind bending remixes and high-octane performances. His track “Oblivion” exemplifies his ability to blend heavy bass with intricate rhythms. Subtronics’ sets are a rollercoaster of energy, making him a must-see act for bass enthusiasts.
5. DJ Snake
French DJ and producer DJ Snake has a knack for creating global hits that blend various genres, including EDM, hip-hop, and Latin music. His recent release “Paradise” featuring Bipolar Sunshine showcases his ability to craft infectious melodies with broad appeal. DJ Snake’s performances are known for their high energy and crowd engagement.
6. SHEVA
A rising star in Toronto’s underground, SHEVA blends Trance, Techno, Future Rave, and House into hypnotic, high-energy DJ sets. Her sound reflects a cultural journey across France, Canada, Portugal, and Brazil — as well as her early roots as a dancer. With deep insight from working behind the scenes for global artists, she’s one to watch.
7. Excision
Excision is a titan of bass music, known for his earth-shaking drops, futuristic visuals, and fully immersive live shows. He’s built an empire around heavy dubstep and relentless sound design, drawing massive crowds to festivals like Lost Lands and Bass Canyon. Expect cinematic intros, brutal breakdowns, and the kind of raw power that turns a crowd into a mosh pit.
8. Disclosure
UK duo Disclosure (brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence) helped usher in a new era of electronic music by fusing deep house, UK garage, and soulful pop into one infectious package. Their breakout album Settle earned Grammy nominations and reshaped the sound of global dance floors, with hits like “Latch” and “White Noise.” Known for their tight production, genre-fluid sets, and live instrumentation, Disclosure always delivers a dynamic and dance-heavy experience that blends underground energy with mainstream polish.
9. MORTEN
Danish DJ and producer MORTEN has kept his incredibly innovative and trademarked sound ringing through platforms across the globe. As the co-founder of ‘Future Rave’, and following his immense hits the last couple of years, MORTEN has created magical tracks in collaboration with David Guetta and many more of dance music’s most celebrated taste makers.
10. Azzecca
Azzecca is one of Chicago’s most exciting underground exports, making waves globally with a sound that blurs the lines between dark melodic house, techno, and progressive. She’s become a staple on tastemaker labels and lineups, with her music championed by the likes of John Summit and Gorgon City — offering the kind of immersive, emotional energy that sticks with you long after the lights go up.
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