Meet the next wave of talent shaping the global dance music scene. Recognized as 2024 Future Talent finalists by the Pete Tong DJ Academy announced at this year’s IMS Ibiza, these rising stars are gaining support from industry heavyweights and making their mark on international stages. From chart-topping releases to performances at iconic venues like Destino Pacha, they’re setting the standard for the future of electronic music.
Stephen Obana, better known as ØBANA, has been a trailblazer in the electronic dance music scene since 2006, captivating audiences with his genre-defying performances and innovative production style. Known for his ability to seamlessly transition between mellow beats and high-energy mashups, ØBANA has solidified his reputation as a dynamic performer, having performed at reputable venues such as Insomniac’s Academy LA.
ØBANA takes pride in representing his Filipino heritage through his branding and collaborations, particularly within the growing Asian EDM market. Having played in Seoul’s underground electronic scene last fall and forming connections with its thriving talent, he plans to expand his presence further by performing in the Philippines in early 2025. ØBANA’s unique ‘Trapical’ genre and his dedication to uniting global audiences through a shared love of electronic dance music showcase his commitment to connecting with Asia’s vibrant and dynamic music community.
Popspoken: As a winner of the Pete Tong DJ Academy, based in America and someone who has performed on international stages, what do you believe makes your music resonate with the audience in market, and how do you see your role in elevating the EDM scene in Asia.
Stephen Obana: I would like to first like to express my gratitude toward the Pete Tong DJ Academy for the award which I accept with the most humility. The mega duo Jack U who consisted of Skrillex & Diplo are one of my major influences and since their absence I believe my sound is filling the void left in their unique market of an audience that is looking for catchy melodic synth and bass lines that’s memorable enough to sporadically manifest its melody throughout their mind but energetic and aggressive enough to be able to have a great time and party to, yet has the modern sound and the production techniques of today’s music.
I believe the audience in Asia love especially this combination of elements and I’m confident that the music off my latest EP Alpha which I released in the fall of this year, can give them that.
DJ ØBANA
Popspoken: How do you see this sound (“trap” and “tropical”) resonating with Asian audiences, particularly in tropical regions like Southeast Asia, where music festivals and beach culture thrive? Could this be a bridge to connecting your Asian roots with the broader EDM scene in this market?
Stephen Obana: I believe my Trapical sound would resonate in Southeast Asia well as I believe they’d be encouraged seeing someone that looks like them with the ability to create this caliber music of catchy yet high energy sound. The truth is that my music and reality of being a Filipino American is a bridge between worlds. Although I was born in the Philippines, I was raised here in the states and both of these life occurrences have made my music and myself the things they are today and that itself is a bridge — bridging my life experiences and musical cultivation here in the states with my heritage and countryman in the Philippines. I could not be more proud of both cultures effects on my life and music.
Kardano is a dynamic DJ and producer known for crafting tracks that seamlessly adapt to any moment of the night—whether setting the vibe at the start, energizing the middle, or closing with unforgettable intensity. His signature sound captures a cohesive, resonant vibe, connecting with audiences across diverse moods and settings.
His journey began over 15 years ago during a nine-month residency on Princess Cruises, where he honed his skills and built the confidence to transition to the nightclub scene back home. This formative experience laid the foundation for a career that now spans releases on renowned dance music labels, performances at iconic venues, and recognition as one of Pete Tong DJ Academy’s 2024 Future Talent finalists.
Popspoken: Giglianni gained recognition when Nicole Moudaber featured your track “Snoop” on her show In The Mood. How did that moment impact your career, and what inspired you to craft a sound that seamlessly blends energetic and chill vibes?
Kardono: It’s been an incredible journey. When Nicole Moudaber featured my track Snoop (under my alias Giglianni) on her show In The Mood, it was a surreal moment. However, I wouldn’t say it had a significant impact on my career. Shortly after, I transitioned to my current alias, Kardano, and went nearly a year without releasing music. That period taught me that success in music isn’t about one big moment—it’s about consistently taking small steps to build momentum and create a lasting impact.
I focus on crafting tracks that are versatile—whether they’re played at the start, middle, or end of the night.
DJ Kardono
As these rising talents continue to push boundaries and redefine electronic music, they stand as proof of the Pete Tong DJ Academy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. With a blend of versatility, creativity, and global recognition, they’re not just shaping the future—they’re living it. Keep an eye on these names as they take the dance music world by storm.
Featured image credit: Stephen Obana.
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