The Greatest EDM Artists Of All Time
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The Greatest EDM Artists Of All Time

Ranker Music
Updated May 2, 2024 991.9K views 195 items
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202.4K votes
24.8K voters
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Vote up and add all of your favorite EDM musicians of all time.

If you find yourself asking "what is EDM music?" then you may have been living under a rock; but don't worry — this list of the top EDM DJs and producers will tell you everything you need to know.

Over the past 20 years, electronic dance music or EDM, has become one of the most popular music genres in the world. In fact, in many circles, electronic dance music artists are considered the new incarnation of rock stars. Including the best young EDM artists, electronic music duos, and EDM trios, these artists have struck a chord with their most ardent supporters and are currently producing some of the best EDM songs. The biggest and best EDM artists have the rare ability to command big dollars at their club and festival appearances, and are often listed near the top of the richest musicians. In fact, their songs are considered some of the best music in EDM ​​​​out today.

So who is the best EDM artist? There are many types of EDM, so it is difficult to name the best electronic artists without delving deeper into the subgenres. The question of who is the best is one that fans of the many subgenres of dance music have been trying to answer for some time. Some would call comparing the best house artist to other electronic dance music artists extremely difficult. Yet the beauty of determining who should be at the top of this list is that it includes all musicians who fall under the umbrella of dance music, electronic (or electro) and club music. The legends who populate this list, from Daft Punk and Tiesto, to superstars like Avicii and Skrillex to the next generation dance music artists like Martin Garrix are all on this list. If you love EDM musical artists and can't wait to get to see your favorite DJ perform, then you're definitely going to want to vote on this list. Some of the best EDM is represented on this list.

Who are the best electronic dance music artists of all time? Who are the greatest EDM artists ever?

These are the questions this list seeks to answer, and it's up to you to decide. The list should include most of the popular, good electronic artists, from the most famous DJs, to the best electronic music singers. 

Most divisive: Fatboy Slim
Over 24.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest EDM Artists Of All Time
  • Avicii
    1

    Avicii

    10,281 votes

    A prodigious talent in electronic music, this prolific Swedish producer and DJ dazzled the world with his melodic and infectious sounds that redefined the boundaries of EDM. His innovative fusion of dance, folk, and country elements coupled with a penchant for catchy hooks and compelling songwriting garnered him immense commercial success and the adoration of millions. Tragically passing away at the age of 28, his far-reaching influence and contributions to electronic dance music remain unparalleled and continue to inspire countless fans and fellow artists.

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  • Martin Garrix
    2

    Martin Garrix

    6,870 votes

    A Dutch prodigy who skyrocketed to fame at the tender age of 17, this gifted DJ and record producer has already solidified himself as a leading figure in mainstream electronic dance music. His ability to create infectious melodies and club-ready anthems that appeal to a wide audience has landed him numerous chart successes and helped him earn multiple awards, including topping DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs list multiple times. Collaborating with some of the industry's biggest names, he continues to awe fans and critics alike, and his influence on the current state of mainstream EDM is undeniable.

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  • Daft Punk
    3

    Daft Punk

    7,716 votes

    French pioneers who have been shaping the soundscape of electronic music since the early '90s, this enigmatic duo made history with their unique blend of house, electro, funk, and disco, influencing generations of musicians and producers. Their groundbreaking use of sampling and digital editing, accompanied by their iconic robot personas, has etched them into the pantheon of pop culture legends. Despite announcing their breakup in 2021, the indelible impact of their genre-defying music and unforgettable live shows will undoubtedly echo through the ages.

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  • Calvin Harris
    4

    Calvin Harris

    6,079 votes

    Hailing from Scotland, this titan of EDM boasts an impressive career spanning almost two decades, during which he has deftly navigated the ever-evolving dance music landscape. His knack for crafting pop-infused dance anthems, combined with an unwavering commitment to production quality, has secured him a place among the most successful and respected artists in the game. As a sought-after producer and remixer for top-tier talents such as Rihanna and Katy Perry, his influence extends far beyond the realm of EDM.

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  • Kygo
    5

    Kygo

    3,830 votes

    This Norwegian sensation has carved out a unique niche in the world of EDM with his signature tropical house sound—characterized by soothing melodies, airy soundscapes, and a laid-back vibe that has resonated with legions of fans worldwide. His natural ability to create captivating hooks and earworms, paired with his keen aptitude for remixing and reinterpreting popular songs, has led to numerous chart-topping hits, lucrative collaborations, and sold-out live performances around the globe. As one of the pioneers of the tropical house subgenre, his contributions have left an indelible mark on modern dance music.

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  • Alan Walker
    6

    Alan Walker

    1,461 votes

    A self-taught musician hailing from Norway, this young prodigy has made waves in the global EDM community with his atmospheric, cinematic soundscapes and evocative melodies. His unique blend of electro house and elements borrowed from film scores has resonated with a broad audience, earning him millions of fans and numerous chart successes. With a tireless work ethic and a keen ear for trends, he continues to push the boundaries of EDM and captivate audiences worldwide.

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  • Swedish House Mafia
    7

    This legendary trio of Swedish DJs and producers has forever altered the landscape of electronic dance music with their euphoric, stadium-ready anthems and unrivaled showmanship. Their monumental rise to fame and unparalleled impact on both the mainstream and underground scenes can be attributed to their knack for crafting infectious hooks, exceptional production quality, and an unyielding dedication to pushing the envelope. Despite their brief breakup and subsequent reunion, they remain one of the most influential and beloved acts in EDM history.

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  • David Guetta
    8

    David Guetta

    5,041 votes

    Few can deny the tremendous impact this French DJ and producer has had on popularizing electronic dance music across the globe. With a career spanning three decades, his ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly hits has earned him numerous accolades, chart-topping successes, and lucrative collaborations with various pop stars. As an accomplished remixer and sought-after collaborator, he has been instrumental in bridging the gap between mainstream pop and dance music–a feat that has indelibly shaped the modern music scene.

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  • Illenium
    9

    Illenium

    2,162 votes

    A rising star in the EDM world, this American producer and DJ's emotive and melodic take on electronic music has resonated with a devoted fanbase that spans the globe. Known for his rich soundscapes, intricate production, and heartfelt lyrics, he effortlessly straddles multiple genres, incorporating elements of dubstep, future bass, and trap into a cohesive and lush sonic experience. With sold-out tours and festival appearances under his belt, he continues to ascend the ranks of EDM royalty, further solidifying his status as a major force in the industry.

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  • Marshmello
    10

    Marshmello

    3,437 votes

    The enigmatic, helmeted figure known as Marshmello has become an international sensation in a few short years, with his catchy, feel-good tunes and instantly recognizable branding making him a household name among EDM fans. Combining elements of trap, future bass, and progressive house in his productions, his unique style has garnered him countless chart successes, major collaborations, and festival appearances worldwide. His striking visual aesthetic and savvy marketing have raised the bar for modern EDM artists, proving that a carefully crafted persona can be just as important as the music itself.

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  • Zedd
    11

    Zedd

    6,185 votes

    A classically trained musician, this Russian-German producer and DJ has carved a niche for himself in the world of EDM by blending elements of electro house, progressive house, and dubstep to create a unique and instantly recognizable sound. His intricate, finely crafted productions are teeming with infectious hooks, memorable melodies, and genre-defying flair, earning him countless fans, awards, and widespread acclaim. His keen sense of pop sensibilities and knack for collaboration have solidified him as one of the leading forces in modern electronic dance music.

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  • Armin van Buuren
    12

    Armin van Buuren

    3,464 votes

    Hailed as one of the greatest trance DJs of all time, this Dutch titan's influence on the genre cannot be overstated. With a career spanning over 20 years, his contributions to the evolution of trance music, dedication to the art of DJing, and extensive discography have earned him a devoted following and a spot among the legends of electronic dance music. As the host of the renowned radio show "A State of Trance," he continues to shape the future of the genre and inspire countless emerging talents.

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  • Diplo
    13

    Diplo

    3,603 votes

    A true Renaissance man of electronic music, this American DJ, producer, and songwriter has made a name for himself with his genre-spanning work, countless collaborations, and entrepreneurial endeavors. His ability to deftly navigate the worlds of house, techno, electro, and even pop music has earned him immense popularity and respect within the industry. As a founding member of the influential groups Major Lazer, Jack Ü, and Silk City, his impact on modern EDM is undeniable and far-reaching.

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  • Deadmau5
    14

    Deadmau5

    5,972 votes

    Few artists have had as lasting an impact on the world of electronic dance music as this enigmatic Canadian producer and DJ, who has been releasing genre-defining progressive house and electro tracks since the early 2000s. A master of sound design, his meticulously crafted productions are as immersive as they are technically impressive, earning him a devoted fanbase and countless accolades. As a fiercely outspoken advocate for creative integrity, his contributions to EDM extend far beyond his own discography, inspiring legions of musicians to push the envelope and challenge the status quo.

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  • Tiësto
    15

    Tiësto

    6,038 votes

    A living legend in the world of EDM, this Dutch DJ and producer has been enchanting audiences with his unrivaled skill and genre-defining productions for over 25 years. Rising to prominence during the golden age of trance, he later expanded his horizons to incorporate electro house, progressive house, and even pop into his repertoire, all while maintaining his status as an influential tastemaker and trailblazer. With countless chart-topping hits, awards, and sold-out performances at some of the world's biggest festivals, his reign as one of the greatest EDM artists of all time remains uncontested.

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  • Galantis
    16

    Galantis

    2,485 votes

    This dynamic Swedish duo has captivated the EDM world with their exuberant, feel-good anthems that expertly blend elements of house, electro, and dance-pop. Their infectious hooks, lush harmonies, and seamless production have garnered them legions of dedicated fans, chart-topping hits, and sought-after spots on festival lineups worldwide. With a penchant for creating unforgettable live performances and an unwavering commitment to sonic innovation, they continue to leave their mark on the world of electronic dance music.

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  • Steve Aoki
    17

    Steve Aoki

    3,530 votes

    A true force of nature in the EDM world, this American DJ and producer has built a storied career on his high-energy performances, relentless work ethic, and penchant for collaboration. Known for his crowd-pleasing antics and genre-defying productions, he has become one of the most recognizable figures in the scene, headlining festivals around the globe and collaborating with top tier talent across various genres. As the founder of the influential label Dim Mak Records, his influence extends far beyond the realm of EDM, making him a true tastemaker and trendsetter.

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  • Porter Robinson
    18

    Porter Robinson

    2,671 votes

    This precocious American producer and DJ captured the hearts and minds of electronic music fans worldwide with his innovative, genre-defying sound that blends elements of electro house, dubstep, and trance. Widely praised for his complex, evocative melodies and exceptional production quality, he has successfully navigated the ever-changing tides of EDM, pushing the boundaries of the genre and inspiring countless other artists in the process. With his critically acclaimed albums and unforgettable live performances, he has secured his place in the pantheon of electronic dance music's greats.

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  • DJ Snake
    19

    DJ Snake

    2,148 votes

    A French DJ and producer who honed his skills in the underground club scene, he quickly rose to prominence with his unique combination of trap, electro, and hip-hop influences. His gritty, bass-heavy productions have earned him legions of fans, numerous chart successes, and collaborations with some of the biggest names in both dance music and pop. With a flair for the dramatic and an innate sense of what resonates with audiences, he remains a major player in the industry and a sought-after live performer.

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  • Hardwell
    20

    Hardwell

    3,500 votes

    A Dutch powerhouse in the EDM universe, this world-renowned DJ and producer has been making waves with his high-energy, crowd-pleasing performances and innovative productions since the mid-2000s. Blending elements of progressive house, electro, and big room, his kinetic and infectious sound has earned him legions of devoted fans, critical acclaim, and numerous awards, including twice being crowned DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs winner. With an impressive discography, his own radio show, and countless festival appearances under his belt, his influence on modern EDM is undeniable.

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  • Skrillex
    21

    Skrillex

    6,903 votes

    An American producer and DJ who singlehandedly brought dubstep to the masses, this trailblazing artist's innovative use of aggressive basslines, piercing synths, and intricate sound design changed the landscape of electronic dance music forever. His boundary-pushing productions and fearless experimentation have earned him numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his status as one of the most important figures in the genre. With relentless energy, a tireless work ethic, and an unapologetic commitment to his vision, he continues to inspire and challenge the EDM world.

  • Major Lazer
    22

    Major Lazer

    2,945 votes

    A groundbreaking collective led by the prolific Diplo, this eclectic group has made its mark on the global EDM scene with its dancehall-infused electronic beats, infectious hooks, and high-energy live shows. Straddling the line between mainstream and underground, they effortlessly blend elements of reggae, trap, and electro to create a sound that is truly their own. Their genre-defying, boundary-pushing approach to electronic music has garnered them widespread acclaim and legions of devoted fans around the world.

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  • Kaskade
    23

    Kaskade

    2,264 votes

    An American DJ and producer synonymous with the growth and evolution of house music over the past two decades, his signature blend of catchy melodies, captivating vocals, and tight production has won him numerous awards and a devoted fan base. Consistently pushing the boundaries of electronic dance music, his ability to traverse genres such as deep house, progressive house, and electro have helped to shape the modern landscape of the genre. A frequent headliner at major festivals and an enduring figure in the world of EDM, his continued relevance and impact are unquestioned.

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  • Alesso
    24

    Alesso

    2,861 votes

    A Swedish DJ and producer known for his euphoric, melodic spin on progressive house and electro, this EDM powerhouse has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the biggest names in the industry. His undeniable knack for crafting infectious hooks and unforgettable melodies, coupled with his impeccable production skills, has landed him numerous chart successes and high-profile festival appearances. As he continues to release hit after hit, his reputation as a leading figure in electronic dance music remains unchallenged.

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  • Flume
    25

    Flume

    1,159 votes

    An Australian force to be reckoned with, this electronic music prodigy has put his stamp on the EDM landscape by deftly weaving together elements of future bass, trap, and experimental electronica. His distinctive sound, characterized by intricate sound design and captivating melodies, has garnered him widespread acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying his status as one of the most innovative artists in the genre. With his masterful production skills and willingness to push the envelope, he has earned his place among the EDM elite.

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  • The Chainsmokers
    26

    The Chainsmokers

    3,341 votes

    A production duo hailing from New York, they quickly rose to prominence with their catchy, radio-ready blend of EDM, pop, and indie-electronic music. Their infectious hooks, anthemic choruses, and polished production have earned them widespread acclaim, numerous awards, and a devoted fanbase that spans the globe. Collaborating with some of the biggest names in music and consistently churning out chart-topping hits, their impact on the modern pop and EDM landscape is undeniable.

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  • Afrojack
    27

    Afrojack

    2,442 votes

    A Dutch DJ and producer whose innovative approach to electronic dance music has earned him a reputation as one of the most influential artists in the scene, this powerhouse's ability to fuse elements of electro house, progressive house, and pop has garnered him legions of die-hard fans. Known for his larger-than-life productions and unforgettable live shows, he has collaborated with some of the industry's biggest names and consistently remains at the forefront of the genre. As a sought-after producer, his impact on EDM can be felt far beyond his own discography.

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  • ODESZA
    28

    ODESZA

    652 votes

    This American duo has cultivated a devoted following with their dreamy, cinematic take on electronic dance music, masterfully blending elements of indie-electronic, future bass, and chillwave to create a sound that's truly their own. Their lush soundscapes, emotive melodies, and impeccably produced tracks have won them critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase who eagerly anticipate each new release. Known for their visually stunning live performances, they continue to carve out their own unique space within the ever-evolving world of EDM.

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  • Axwell ^ Ingrosso
    29

    Two-thirds of the iconic Swedish House Mafia, this powerhouse duo has continued to dominate the world of EDM with their infectious take on progressive house, electro, and big room. Known for their anthemic productions, masterful DJ sets, and unrivaled showmanship, they have become synonymous with massive, unforgettable live performances. As they continue to push the boundaries of the genre and collaborate with some of the industry's top talents, their influence on the electronic dance music scene remains unparalleled.

  • Flux Pavillion
    30

    Flux Pavillion

    2,044 votes

    A British producer and DJ known for his gritty, bass-heavy take on dubstep and drum and bass, he has been captivating audiences worldwide with his innovative productions and high-energy live shows. His relentless pursuit of sonic innovation and expert sound design has solidified his status as one of the leading figures in the world of bass music. With numerous festival appearances and a critically acclaimed discography under his belt, his impact on the global EDM scene is undeniable.