The Music

At Friendfest, the music is brought to life by Inferno Collective, a community-based organization centered around electronic music.

Friendfest is an electrifying musical experience with sets that span a dynamic blend of deep house, techno, melodic grooves, tribal rhythms, Afrobeat, progressive house, dubstep, and drum and bass (DNB). Picture yourself moving to hypnotic percussion, surrounded by fellow music enthusiasts. The crowd will sway, jump, and lose themselves in the intensity. Brace yourself for an unforgettable night of musical magic!

Friendfest’s music lineup promises a unique blend of cultures and music spanning across the world. Local DJs and producers will set the stage on fire, creating an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of EDM, house beats, hip-hop grooves or soulful melodies, Friendfest has something for everyone. We just want you experience the incredible energy the DJs bring to the dance floor.

Here at Friendfest, we just love to dance!

Dante

Let’s delve deeper into the musical universe of Dante, the boundary-pushing artist. His presence behind the decks is magnetic, drawing you into a realm where genres collide, and creativity knows no bounds.

Dante’s musical DNA carries traces of artists who’ve left an indelible mark on his soul. He reveres the intricate melodies of Porter Robinson, the otherworldly storytelling of Seven Lions, and the raw emotion of Brennan Heart. These influences shape his sonic palette, infusing his sets with both nostalgia and innovation. When the beat drops, it’s as if time fractures, and you’re suspended in a sonic reverie.

Dante’s journey began in the quiet corners of his bedroom, headphones clamped over his ears. Electronic music became his sanctuary—a language he spoke fluently even before he knew its syntax. As he honed his skills, he ventured beyond the confines of his room, playing at local Louisville gatherings and underground parties. The crowd responded—their energy fueling his passion. As the founder of Inferno Collective, Dante has shared stages with legends: Mt Eden, whose dubstep anthems shook the earth; gLAdiator, masters of trap; the enigmatic WUKI; and the venerable DJ Icey. Today, the Inferno Collective has become an edm family—a tribe of kindred spirits who enjoy the alchemy of beats.

DJ BEGÜM

DJ Begum is more than just a DJ; she is a musical globetrotter and a data nerd with a background in the analytics field. She blends South Asian, African, European, Middle-Eastern, Latin, and Western vocals with modern dance beats, creating an eclectic mix of international sounds that will make you want to groove on the dance floor. Her goal is to share her passion for music and dance with her audience, inspiring them to explore new genres and styles. She believes that music is a universal language that can connect people across boundaries and backgrounds. Always on the lookout for new challenges and opportunities, DJ Begum loves music from all over the world and strives to grow both as a DJ and as a person.

DJ Begum’s stage name holds special significance for her, as it is her mother’s maiden name. The word “begum” is an ancient and noble title from Central and South Asia, meaning “Lady” or “Madam.” It originates from the East Turkic word “begüm,” which means “higher official.” In Urdu, her native language, it also refers to the “queen face card” in a deck of cards. By using this name, DJ Begum honors her mother’s heritage and plays some of her favorite tunes from her home country. She aims to make her mother proud and use her music to sprinkle joy and positivity into the world.

DropShawn

DJ DropShawn, also known as Shawn D Wright, began his artistic journey as a poet at The Living Room in 2022. Seeking to infuse more flair and excitement into his poetry events, he ventured into the world of DJing. This transition allowed him to blend his poetic expressions with dynamic musical elements, creating a unique and engaging experience for his audience. Over the years, his style has evolved, drawing inspiration from hip-hop and house genres. This fusion of styles has enabled him to craft sets that are both rhythmic and uplifting, resonating deeply with his listeners.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, DJ DropShawn has a background in Public Health, which fuels his passion for advocating a healthy lifestyle within the community. He leverages his platform not only to entertain but also to promote wellness and positive living. His events often serve as a space where creativity and health advocacy intersect, providing attendees with both entertainment and inspiration.

DJ DropShawn’s dedication to his craft and his community is evident in the way he brings his creative ideas to fruition. He enjoys experimenting with melodic afro rhythms and harmonies, creating a sound that is both harmonious and uplifting. His ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly has made his performances a highlight in Louisville’s local music scene.