Festival Artist Spotlights: Artists You Don’t Want to Miss in 2023 [Vol. I]

Every year, the question of “which festival(s) to go to?” becomes more difficult to answer with the star-studded rosters that feel impossible to choose from. Artists continue to progress their talents, while newcomers get the opportunity to showcase theirs. Luckily, we provide a comprehensive guide on who you should keep your eyes on this festival season.

Check out our 10 Artists You Don’t Want to Miss This Festival Season:

Yheti

Who is Yheti?

Yheti needs no introduction at this point in his career. His success stems from his innate ability to produce eccentric, low-end experimental bass. Fans continue to be captivated by his use of unpredictable rhythm, erratic percussion, and mind-numbing basslines. If there’s any artist that proves chaos in sound can be functional, it’s him.

Where is Yheti playing this Summer?

• The Untz – 5/12/2023 – 5/14/2023 (Browns Valley, California)
• Secret Dreams – 8/17/2023 – 8/19/2023 (Thornville, Ohio)

Where is Yheti touring this Summer?

• 4/21/2023 (Milwaukee, WI) – The Miramar
• 4/22/2023 (Pontiac, MI) – Elektricity
• 5/5/2023 (Rochester, NY) – Photo City Music Hall
• 5/6/2023 (Philadelphia, PA) – The Ave

Why is Yheti an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Recently, Yheti stepped up his game in the production world. He is currently wrapping up his Knew Sound Tour, which features support from Ternion Sound, Toadface, and Honeybee. To make matters more enticing, Yheti developed his own visuals for his first A/V set. A new 20-track album filled with mashups and remixes of his most memorable songs from the past decade is expected to drop any day now.

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ODESZA

Who is ODESZA?

The dynamic duo known as ODESZA has come a long way since their release of Summer’s Gone in 2012. The three-time Grammy nominees are notorious for their calculated and harmonized sound structure. Some fan favorites include tracks like “It’s Only,” “Better Now,” and “Bloom.” In 2015, Odesza launched an independent label titled, Foreign Family Collective. The label’s roster includes names such as Chet Porter, Big Wild, RUFUS DU SOL, and a collaborative effort with Golden Features, called BRONSON. Fans flock from all over the globe to see these two work their magic, and for a good reason.

What Festivals is ODESZA playing this Summer?

• Governors Ball – 6/9/2023 – 6/11/2023 (Queens, NY)
• Bonnaroo – 6/15/2023 – 6/18/2023 (Manchester, TN)
• Electric Forest – 6/22/2023 – 6/25/2023 (Rothbury, MI)
• Lollapalooza – 8/3/2023 – 8/6/2023 (Chicago, IL) 
• Outside Lands – 8/11/2023 – 8/13/2023 (San Francisco, CA)
• Life is Beautiful – 8/22/2023 – 8/24/2023 (Las Vegas, NV)

Where is ODESZA touring this Summer?

• 6/14/2023 (Montreal, QC) – Place Bell
• 6/30/2023 (Milwaukee, WI) – American Family Insurance Amphitheater
• 8/30/2023 (Columbus, OH) – Schottenstein Center
• 9/1/2023 (Darien, NY) – Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
• 9/2/2023 (Burgettstown, PA) – The Pavilion at Star Lake
• 9/3/2023 (Indianapolis, IN) – Ruoff Music Center
• 9/8/2023 (Tampa, FL) – Midfloridia Credit Union Amphitheatre
• 9/9/2023 (West Palm Beach, FL) – ITHINK Financial Amphitheatre 
• 9/12/2023 (Bristow, VA) – Jiffy Lube Live
• 9/14/2023 (Charlottes, NC) – PNC Music Pavilion
• 9/16/2023 (New Orleans, LA) – Smoothie King Center
• 9/20/2023 (Palm Springs, CA) – Acrisure Arena
• 9/29/2023 (San Diego, CA) – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre 
• 9/30/2023 (Sanra Barbara, CA) – Santa Barbara Bowl 
• 10/4/2023 (Omaha, NE) – Chi Health Center
• 10/6/2023 (Rogers, AR) – Walmart AMP
• 10/12/2023 (Oklahoma City, OK) – Paycom Center
• 10/13/2023 (Kansas City, MO) – T-Mobile Center
• 10/19/2023 (Mexico City, MX) – Sports Palace 

Why is ODESZA an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Once ODESZA vanished after a wildly successful run with A Moment Apart, fans were left in the dark and desperate for their return. Thankfully, the anxiety dissipated in 2022 with their fourth studio album release, The Last Goodbye. ODESZA has consistently been announcing new festival sets and the second leg of the TLG tour, which begins in June. Attendees will be fortunate to see the spectacle that is ODESZA alongside supporting acts like Bonobo, Bob Moses, TOKiMONSTA, and more.

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Zingara

Who is Zingara?

Zingara is a prime example of an artist who initially gained notoriety through TikTok. Once EDM enthusiasts caught wind of her hypnotic dubstep sound, it has been full speed ahead for the budding Baltimore producer. Last year, Zingara won a slot for Bass Canyon and Lost Lands through Excision’s Bass Music Initiative contest. Additionally, she went back-to-back with Austeria for her first Red Rocks appearance in support of Cyclops Rocks II. With some remarkable bookings already under her belt, it looks as if Zingara is showing no signs of slowing down in the coming year.

Where is Zingara playing this Summer?

• Backwoods at Mulberry Mountain – 4/20/2023 – 4/23/2023 (Ozark, AR)
• UBBI DUBBI – 4/22/2023 – 4/23/2023 (FT Worth, TX)
• Paradise Blue – 4/28/2023 – 4/30/2023 (Cancun, MX)
• Lightning in a Bottle – 5/24/2023 – 5/29/2023 (Bakersfield, CA)
• Heatwave Music Festival – 6/10/2023 – 6/11/2023 (Chicago, IL)
• Electric Forest – 6/22/2023 – 6/25/2023 (Rothbury, MI)
• Veld Music Festival – 8/4/2023 – 8/6/2023 (Toronto, ON) 
• Elements Music & Arts Festival – 8/11/2023 – 8/14/2023 (Long Pond, PA) 
• Bass Canyon – 8/18/2023 – 8/20/2023 (Quincy, WA) 

Where is Zingara touring this Summer?

• 4/14/2023 (Portland, OR) – 45 East
• 4/15/2023 (Phoenix, AZ) – Walter Studios
• 4/21/2023 (Washington, DC) – Soundcheck
• 5/18/2023 (Jacksonville, FL) – Myth Nightclub
• 5/19/2023 (Tampa, FL) – TK Lounge
• 5/20/2023 (Tampa,FL) – TK Lounge 

Why is Zingara an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Dubstep is a fiercely competitive genre, but Zingara has found a way to make herself stand out in such a saturated market. Playful vocal clips are found throughout some of her singles, like the newest collab with Austeria, “WWYB3” (Wait What’s Your Big 3?). The track pokes and prods at the astrology movement while still staying true to the classic grittiness that Zingara is known for. Of course, this is all in good fun.

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SOFI TUKKER

Who is SOFI TUKKER?

SOFI TUKKER is no stranger to MP3 MAG, but it’s worthwhile to mention them considering they’re set to play plenty of events this summer season. The vibrant duo consisting of Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern have blown up in a massive way with hits like “Drinkee” and “Wet Tennis”.

SOFI TUKKER: Meaning Behind ‘WET TENNIS’ & How It Landed Them ESPN Fame

Their career has catapulted into full-blown stardom, but they still honor originality through the music they create. The upcoming live performances are a hefty list, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for what is sure to be an epic festival season.

Where is SOFI TUKKER playing this Summer?

• Coachella Music & Arts Festival – 4/15/2023 & 4/22/2023 (Indio, CA)
• Seismic Spring: Lite – 5/19/2023 – 5/20/2023 (Austin, TX)
• Lightning in a Bottle – 5/24/2023 – 5/29/2023 (Bakersfield, CA)
• The Governer’s Ball – 6/9/2023 – 6/11/2023 (New York, NY)
• Bonnaroo – 6/15/2023 – 6/18/2023 (Manchester, TN) 
• Electric Forest – 6/22/2023 – 6/25/2023 (Rothbury, MI) 
• Summerfest – 6/23/2023 (Milwaukee, WI) 
• Capitol Hill Block Party – 7/21/2023 – 7/23/2023 (Seattle, WA) 
• Lollapalooza – 8/3/2023 – 8/6/2023 (Chicaho, IL) 

Where is SOFI TUKKER touring this Summer?

• 4/14/2023 (Mexico City, MX) – Pepsi Center TWC
• 4/19/2023 (Tempe, AZ) – Marquee Theatre
• 4/21/2023 (Morrison, CO) – Red Rocks Amphitheatre 
• 5/27/2023 (Vancouver, BC) – Harbour Event & Convention Centre
• 6/19/2023 (Oklahoma City, OK) – The Jones Assembly 

Why is SOFI TUKKER an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

A surprising but welcomed collaboration, “Sacrifice,” with Kx5 (Kaskade and Deadmau5) is just one of many reasons to seek out a SOFI TUKKER event. The combination of Sophie’s airy lyrics mixed with veteran big-room house is simply seductive. SOFI TUKKER’s latest tune is a feature on LP Giobbi‘s “If Love is a Skill.” The two artists have a tantalizing energy that suits one another in a harmonious fashion. New music aside, SOFI TUKKER is certainly capable of keeping an enthusiastic crowd on their toes.

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Lavier

Who is Lavier?

As a Pittsburgh native and multi-genre bass music producer, Lavier has found his footing in the music industry. His journey began at a young age and has since evolved into a promising profession. Lavier wears many hats as he writes, mixes, and masters his own projects. He also has a gift for creating visual art. His self-made music has seen support from the likes of Of The Trees, Tripp Street, and Street Ritual. Lavier’s passion is apparent, and the future seems bright for this polished creator.

Where is Lavier playing this Summer?

• Wub N Dub Arts & Music Festival – 4/21/2023 – 4/23/2023 (Willard, NC)
• The Untz – 5/12/2023 – 5/14/2023 (Brown Valley, CA)

Why is Lavier an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Lavier’s arsenal of original music is impressive, to say the least. The word on the street is that his recent guest mix with Heard it Here First features all five tracks from an upcoming EP dropping on More Creativity Records in late spring. Furthermore, Lavier is putting the cherry on top of an already accomplished summer by blessing listeners with a second EP for 2023. When we said the passion is apparent, we meant it.

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Ternion Sound

Who is Ternion Sound?

The 140 BPM realm is an acquired taste for some, but for others, it’s a lifestyle. Infrasound Music Festival encapsulates the finest tastemakers in the low-end landscape. It also just so happens to be where Apparition, Johnny Foreplay, and Nostalgia joined forces to become Ternion Sound. Their infectious stage presence led to a raucous project defined by distinct bass lines and sound system culture.

Where is Ternion Sound playing this Summer?

• Wub N Dub Arts & Music Festival – 4/21/2023 – 4/24/2023 (Willard, NC)
• The Untz – 5/12/2023 – 5/14/2023 (Browns Valley, CA) 
• Sonic Bloom – 6/15/2023 – 6/18/2023 (Hummingbird Ranch, CO) 
• Fam Fest – 9/15/2023 – 9/17/2023 (Harmony, Maine)

Where is Ternion Sound touring this Summer?

• 4/13/2023 (Nashville, TN) – EXIT/IN
• 4/14/2023 (Louisville, KY)  – Headliner’s Music Hall
• 4/15/2023  (St. Louis, MO) – The Red Flag 
• 4/21/2023 (Milwaukee, WI) – The Miramar
• 4/22/2023 (Pontiac, MI) – Elektricity
• 5/5/2023 (Rochester, NY) – Photo City Music Hall
• 5/6/2023 (Philadelphia, PA) – The Ave

Why is Ternion Sound an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

There’s something exciting about artists who incorporate minimalism into their sets. In the modern EDM age, producers take full advantage of production technology to create otherworldly experiences that fascinate even veteran concert-goers. However, sometimes all of that is unnecessary. Ternion Sound leans into their skillset with risky doubles and quick transitions to keep the crowd guessing. In a time where stimulating screens and lights are plentiful, there is an advantage to just letting yourself feel the moment. We’d bet money on you doing just that during one of the many upcoming Ternion Sound sets.

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Late Night Radio

Who is Late Night Radio?

Late Night Radio has been involved with music for quite some time. Originally, he produced music for online videos and TV commercials before ending up in Colorado to pursue a career in the art. His fusion of hip-hop, bass, and classical music has been met with open arms for those who seek a sound that’s both vintage and relevant. Late Night Radio’s dedication to providing timeless classics with a modern-day feel is no easy feat, but the outcome of his persistence is phenomenal.

Where is Late Night Radio playing this Summer?

• Summer Camp Music Festival – 5/26/2023 – 5/28/2023 (Chillicothe, IL)
• Sonic Bloom – 6/15/2023 – 6/18/2023 (Rye, CO) 
• Dancefestopia – 9/4/2023 – 9/10/2023 (Lacygne, KS)

Where is Late Night Radio touring this Summer?

• 4/20/2023 (Philadelphia, PA) – Warehouse on Watts
• 4/21/2023 (New York, NY) – The Sultan Room
• 4/22/2023 (Hadley, MA) – The Grass is Greener Gathering 
• 4/27/2023 (Richmond, VA) – The Broadberry
• 4/28/2023 (Asheville, NC) – Salvage Station 
• 4/29/2023 (Lexington, KY) – Clubhouse Lexington 
• 5/12/2023 (Placerville, CA) – Golden Road Gathering
• 5/13/2023 (Austin, TX) – The Concourse Project 
• 5/18/2023 (Charleston, SC) – The Charleston Pour House 
• 5/19/2023 (Atlanta, GA) – Terminal West 
• 5/20/2023 (Charlotte, NC) – The Music Yard 

Why is Late Night Radio an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

One of the most significant releases so far this year is Daily Bread‘s newest album, Invisible Cinema. Late Night Radio joined the project for two collaborative tracks called “Blind Yourself” and “Storm Clouds Rising”. The pair has a long history of producing high-quality tunes with complementary sound. Opportunities to see them both at the same event are possible. Only time will tell if there’s a surprise B2B in the works, but there’s no reason we can’t dream.

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John Summit

Who is John Summit?

Coming out of a breakthrough year in 2022 is none other than tech house guru, John Summit. Summit left behind an accounting career to follow his dreams of living a more fulfilling life as a hotshot producer. In retrospect, the risk was definitely worth it given the level of success he has accomplished in such a short time span. Summit further solidified his imprint within the scene by launching his own record label,  Off the Grid Records.

Where is John Summit playing this Summer?

• Breakaway – 5/5/2023 (West Concord, NC) 
• Seismic Spring – 5/19/2023 (Austin, TX) 
• Hangout Music Festival – 5/19/2023 (Gulf SHores, AL) 
• Movement Music Festival – 5/27/2023 (Detroit, MI) 
• Shambhala Music Festival – 7/21/2023 – 7/24/2023 (British Columbia, CAD) 
• HARD Summer Music Festival – 8/5/2023 – 8/6/2023 (Los Angeles, CA) 
• Elements Music & Arts Festival – 8/11/2023 – 8/14/2023 (Long Pond, PA) 
• Moonrise Festival – 8/12/2023 – 8/13/2023 (Baltimore, MD) 
• ARC Music Festival – 9/1/2023 – 9/3/2023 (Chicago, IL) 
• Imagine Music Festival – 9/14/2023 – 9/17/2023 (Rome, GA) 
• Life is Beautiful Festival – 9/22/2023 – 9/24/2023 (Las Vegas, NV) 
• Suwannee Hulaween – 10/26/2023 – 10/29/2023 (Live Oak, FL) 

Where is John Summit touring this Summer?

• 4/14/2023 (Las Vegas, NV) – Marquee Nightclub
• 4/15/2023 (Orlando, FL) – The Vangaurd
• 4/16/2023 (Houston, TX) – Cle
• 4/21/2023 (Pelham, TN) – The Caverns
• 4/22/2023 (Pelham, TN) – The Caverns
• 5/13/2023 (Broomfield, CO) – 1stBANK Center 
• 5/14/2023 (Morrison, CO) – Red Rocks Amphitheatre 
• 5/17/2023 (Las Vegas, NV) – Marquee Dayclub
• 5/26/2023 (Las Vegas, NV) – TAO Beach Dayclub
• 5/28/2023 (Indianapolis, IN) – Indy 500 Snake Pit 

Why is John Summit an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Enticing a crowd to move and groove in sync with the beat is a skill set that Summit performs with ease. Considering he has partnered with Subtronics for two B2B sets, it’s pretty clear he’s a man of many talents. Aside from Summit’s ability to weave through various sub-genres, he’s currently producing some of his best music. This year’s release of “Where Are You Now” featuring Hayla has landed on Beatport’s top 100 tracklist and accumulated over 10 million Spotify streams. Hayla’s luscious vocals intertwine with Summit’s progressive house arrangement to provide an ethereal work of art.

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Lotus

Who is Lotus?

The electronica-centric band has etched the Lotus name as leaders in the jam category. Since the group’s inception over 20 years ago, we’ve seen their aptitude for improvisation, complex light setups, and diverse setlists. This year will serve as something undeniably meaningful for the Lotus legacy, considering the recent tragic loss of percussionist Chuck Morris and his son.

Where is Lotus playing this Summer?

• Summer Camp Music Festival – 5/26 – 5/28/2023 (Chillicothe, IL)
• Sonic Bloom – 6/15/2023 – 6/18/2023 (Rye, CO)
• High Sierra Music Festival – 6/29/2023 – 7/2/2023 (Quincy, CA)
• Elements Music & Arts Festival – 8/11/2023 – 8/14/2023 (Long Pond, PA) 
• Summerdance – 9/1/2023 – 9/3/2023 (Garrettsville, OH)

Where is Lotus touring this Summer?

• 4/21/2023 (Denver, CO) – Fillmore Auditorium
• 4/22/2023 (Denver, CO) – Fillmore Auditorium
• 5/5/2023 (Harrisburg, PA) – XL Live
• 5/6/2023 (Port Chester, NY) – The Capitol Theatre

Why is Lotus an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

Lotus has officially postponed their scheduled West Coast tour in light of the recent losses. However, they are planning four benefit concerts for the Morris family in Colorado, Pennsylvania, and New York. The two consecutive Denver shows will feature special guest musicians like former band member Mike Rempel, Jeff Franca from Thievery Corporation, Allen Aucoin from Disco Biscuits, and many more. All net proceeds will go directly to the immediate family of Chuck and Charley.

This will undoubtedly be an emotional moment for the band and their peers, but it’s for a great cause. If you have the means, attending these benefit concerts is a great way to support the Morris family while enjoying a night of live music.

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Pretty Lights

Who is Pretty Lights?

The return of Pretty Lights is a momentous occasion for many fans eagerly anticipating his comeback since his last performance at Red Rocks in 2018. For those new to the scene, it’s important to understand the impact of Derek Vincent Smith, aka Pretty Lights. As a trailblazing artist in the electronic, hip-hop, and soul genres, his sound is both innovative and transformative.

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His illustrious career includes headlining major festivals such as Coachella, Hulaween, and Ultra, as well as the curated event Basslights. Additionally, Smith’s creation of the Pretty Lights Live band pushed the limits even further. Fans can expect to experience the live band’s return along with his solo sets during his upcoming tour.

Where is Pretty Lights playing this Summer?

• Suwanee Hulaween – 10/26/2023 – 10/29/2023 (Live Oak, FL) 
• Cascade Equinox Festival – 9/22/2023 – 9/24/2023 (Redmond, OR)

Where is Pretty Lights touring this Summer?

• 8/4/2023 – 8/6/2023 (Denver, CO) – The Mission Ballroom
• 8/10/2023 – 8/12/2023 (Dillon, CO) – Dillon Amphitheatre
• 8/24/2023 – 8/26/2023 (Atlanta, GA) – The Eastern
• 9/14/2023 – 9/16/2023 (Philadelphia, PA) – Franklin Music Hall 
• 9/29/2023 – 10/1/2023 (New York, NY) – The Brooklyn Mirage
• 10/19/2023 – 10/21/2023 (Chicago, IL) – The Salt Shed 
• 11/3/2023 – 11/4/2023 (Pelham, TN) – The Caverns 
• 11/9/2023 – 11/11/2023 (San Francisco, CA) – The Warfield  
• 12/1/2023 – 12/3/2023 (New Orleans, LA) – Mardi Gras World

Why is Pretty Lights an Artist You Don’t Want to Miss?

The frenzy is officially underway following a moving teaser video distributed by Pretty Lights himself. Social media has exploded with posts and re-shares about the highly anticipated comeback. The Soundship Spacesystem Tour begins on August 4th and features Pretty Lights “Live in Dub” and The Fantastic Pretty Lights live band. The band boasts a roster of familiar musical talent such as Michael Menert, Chris Karns, Borahm Lee, and Alvin Ford Jr. There’s no doubt that the energy will be incomparable as fans eagerly await the lights to go off right before Pretty Lights steps on stage. It’s a must-see moment for both new and longtime fans of the returning household name.

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