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Beatport unveils the Beatport Next Class of 2026 featuring 12 emerging global artists
A global artist development program spotlighting the next generation of electronic music talent
The Beatport has officially announced the Beatport Next Class of 2026, revealing the 12 artists selected for its flagship artist development program. The announcement was made on January 22, 2026, marking the sixth edition of the initiative since its launch in 2021.
Designed to support emerging talent in electronic music, Beatport Next has become a key career accelerator for artists shaping the future of the global dance music scene.
What is Beatport Next
Beatport Next is a year long artist development program that provides selected artists with a complete ecosystem of support. This includes curated playlists, exclusive editorial coverage, social media campaigns and live performance opportunities.
Since its inception, the program has helped launch the careers of artists who are now among the most influential names in electronic music, including Ahadadream, HoneyLuv, Logic1000, Nia Archives, TSHA and Thakzin.
Beatport statement on the 2026 edition
According to Teresa Aramburu, Director of Artist Marketing at Beatport, the 2026 edition reflects both the growth and impact of the program.
“At Beatport, we have a proud history of supporting the growth of emerging artists. Now in its sixth iteration, Beatport Next has grown into a truly impactful program for the DJ community, with a record number of applications this year. The 12 artists selected represent a diverse and exciting cross section of talent shaping the future of global electronic music.”
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Meet the Beatport Next Class of 2026
ATRIP
Based in London, ATRIP combines a community driven approach with mainstage energy. The artist comes off a strong year with support slots for Disclosure and Barry Can’t Swim, as well as a North American tour.
BLUMITSU
A collaborative project between Bluetoof and Jossy Mitsu, BLUMITSU evolved from a shared Rinse FM residency to major stages such as Glastonbury and the launch of their own label, BLUMITSUTM LABORATORIES.
Cole Knight
Miami based Cole Knight delivers a powerful blend of acid, house and hard groove. Her recent highlights include performances at Coachella and the launch of her own event series, Knight Club.
D Stone
Rising multi instrumentalist D Stone from Amsterdam blends live performance with electronic production, bridging proto disco, funk and deep percussive house.
DJ_Dave
A pioneer in live coding, DJ_Dave builds music in real time both in the studio and on stage, visually projecting her code to create a unique intersection of music, art and technology.
Jennifer Loveless
A key figure in Berlin’s queer dance scene, Jennifer Loveless is known for emotive, high energy sets that move fluidly between house and techno with warmth and intensity.
Kikelomo
British Nigerian DJ, Oroko Radio co-founder and Berlin resident, Kikelomo is a regular presence at Berghain and Panorama Bar, with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Maara
With a playful and progressive club sound, Maara has secured her place in the electronic music landscape through high profile festival performances and her own label, Ancient Records.
Omar+
Blending new school R&B vocals with house and four to the floor grooves, Omar+ is a breakout London artist with a residency at Rinse FM and support from Peggy Gou and Chris Stussy.
Rosey Gold
Named Beatport’s One to Watch in 2025, Rosey Gold amplifies African diaspora sounds on a global scale and holds a prestigious residency at Hï Ibiza alongside Black Coffee and Damian Lazarus.
Sam Alfred
One of Australia’s most exciting electronic music exports, Sam Alfred performs worldwide, navigating jazz influenced house, deep cuts and UK garage through a distinct 1990s lens.
WOST
Based in Bogotá, WOST merges sounds from the Global South such as dembow and raptor house with techno and garage, earning support from artists including Skrillex and Nina Kraviz.
Beatport commitment to electronic music culture
About The Beatport Group: Beatport is the world's largest music store for DJs. Since 2004, it has supported the global DJ community by connecting them with fans and providing the tools to elevate their careers. Through Beatport Live & Interactive, the brand delivers unique live event experiences that deepen the connection between artists and audiences. Its online editorial platform, Beatportal, celebrates and documents electronic music culture worldwide.
The Beatport Next Class of 2026 reinforces the platform’s role as a driving force in artist development, spotlighting voices that are shaping the next chapter of global electronic music culture.