Buenos Aires Dance (BAD): A Celebration of Electronic Music
From February 11th to 16th, Buenos Aires Dance (BAD) successfully united the electronic music community, attracting talents and fans from both the region and internationally. Hosted in the vibrant heart of Argentina, BAD featured a unique blend of exclusive events, educational programs, and electrifying performances, making it a pivotal moment in the electronic music calendar.
A Week of Immersion and Exchange
Transforming Buenos Aires into a living stage, BAD provided an essential space for exchange, learning, and cultural expression. Over 2,000 attendees gathered at the iconic Usina del Arte from February 12th to 13th for an array of talks and workshops led by industry heavyweights. These sessions not only targeted the nuances of electronic music but also fostered valuable networking opportunities for DJs, producers, promoters, and educators from around the globe. This collaboration set the stage for deeper conversations about the future of electronic music, culminating in the high-profile ULTRA Buenos Aires festival just days later on February 14th and 15th at Parque de la Ciudad.
Star-Studded Performances
The highlight of BAD was undoubtedly its impressive lineup of artists, which included some of the biggest names in the industry. Richie Hawtin, renowned for his innovative contributions to electronic music, performed at the stunning Floralis Generica on February 12th. This unique pop-up event also featured an “El Preferido” ice cream kiosk, which added a whimsical touch to the evening.
On February 13th, fans were treated to special sessions from Indira Paganotto and Carlita, each hosted at iconic city landmarks—Caminito and Puente de la Mujer, respectively. The energy continued to build until the final day of BAD when fans enjoyed a Meet & Greet with Above & Beyond at the Obelisco.
Inspiring Conversations at Usina del Arte
The Usina del Arte served as a perfect backdrop for BAD’s educational offerings, bridging the gap between the past, present, and future of the electronic music scene. Esteemed speakers included not only household names such as Richie Hawtin and Indira Paganotto but also local heroes like Jay De Lys, Juan Hansen, Emiliano Demarco, and Mariano Mellino.
The forums emphasized collaboration and community, nurturing ties between global and Latin American artists. There was also a dedicated segment on Women in Music, featuring leading figures such as Victoria Engel, Inda Jani, and La Cintia. This initiative aligned with the broader movement for gender equity in the music industry, showcasing voices that are often underrepresented.
Moreover, industry leaders from Ableton, Billboard, Sony Music Entertainment, Spotify, Ultra Records, and William Morris Entertainment shared their insights, providing attendees with invaluable knowledge and perspectives on the state of electronic music.
An Eclectic Array of Performers
Throughout the week, various beloved venues in Buenos Aires came alive with performances featuring both international stars and local talents. Artists like Dom Dolla, Charlotte de Witte, Joseph Capriati, O.Bee, Tomas Station, and Massano graced the stages, enriching the cultural fabric of the city. With such a diverse lineup, attendees experienced a musical journey that spanned genres, styles, and influences.
A City Alive with Music
BAD reinvented Buenos Aires as a hub of creativity, passion, and connection within the electronic music scene. With its successful first edition, the festival not only heightened the profile of the local scene but also solidified the city’s reputation as a vital player in the global electronic music landscape. The blending of education, community, and electrifying performances made Buenos Aires Dance a memorable experience, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.
