This year’s DJ Mag Best of British awards have once again spotlighted the unparalleled talent and creativity within the UK’s electronic music scene. Hosted by esteemed London-based DJ and broadcaster Emerald at The Steel Yard, the sold-out event brought together a who’s who of industry heavyweights, rising stars, and passionate music lovers. As the 18th edition of this annual celebration, the ceremony highlighted the diverse artists, venues, and collectives that continue to define and push forward the UK’s thriving electronic underground.
In a night filled with standout moments, London’s own Joy Orbison took home the prestigious Best DJ award. Known for his experimental, genre-blurring sets, Joy Orbison’s sound has resonated across festival stages, clubs, and the airwaves throughout 2023. His track ‘flight fm’ also claimed Best Track, cementing his status as one of the most influential forces in the UK’s club culture. On the breakthrough front, AZYR emerged as Breakthrough DJ, an accolade that reaffirms the UK’s reputation as a launchpad for fresh talents reshaping the electronic landscape.
Proving that production excellence remains at the heart of the scene, PAWSA claimed Best Producer after another prolific year fueled by cutting-edge tech house releases, while Josh Baker secured Breakthrough Producer, reflecting the industry’s keen eye for up-and-coming studio innovators.
It wasn’t just about DJs and producers, though. The Best MC/Vocalist nod went to Becky Hill, the Bewdley-born chart-topper who continues to redefine vocal-led dance music. Meanwhile, Clementine Douglas was named Breakthrough MC/Vocalist, following a big year collaborating with heavyweights like Chase & Status. K-Trap took the Best Rap Track award for ‘Heaven or Hell’, and Nines claimed Best Rap Album/Mixtape with ‘Quit While You’re Ahead’, underlining the UK’s enduring status as a hotspot for hip-hop and rap artistry.
On the label front, the historic dubstep imprint Deep Medi Musik, founded by Mala, earned Best Label, reinforcing the imprint’s lasting legacy in bass music. At the same time, Make A Dance’s M.A.D RECORDS won Breakthrough Label, paying tribute to the next generation of independent tastemakers shaping tomorrow’s club sounds.
In the album and compilation categories, Ezra Collective took home Best Album for their joyful third record ‘Dance, No One’s Watching’, celebrating the intersection of jazz, electronic, and global rhythms that define contemporary UK music. London’s Shygirl impressed with her contribution to the ‘fabric presents’ series, winning Best Compilation and underscoring the capital’s ongoing role as a hub for creative curators.
A special moment arrived when East London’s iconic Dalston Superstore—just a stone’s throw from the creative heart of Shoreditch—was honored with the Outstanding Contribution award. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Dalston Superstore’s recognition by DJ Mag’s editorial team acknowledges the queer-friendly club’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, artistry, and the underground dance floor experience that is so vital to London’s nightlife identity.
The capital’s legendary fabric was named Best Club, reinforcing its position at the forefront of London nightlife, while Eastenderz earned the title of Best Club Event, and Lost Village took home Best Festival, offering a nod to the UK’s festival circuit that consistently attracts global attention.
Rounding out the night’s honors, fabric’s longtime Programming Director Judy Griffith received the Underground Hero award, recognizing her invaluable role in nurturing grassroots UK music communities. Her dedication exemplifies the spirit that continues to shape the capital’s clubs and venues.
The awards party itself was a spectacle, with Joy Orbison, Arthi, Mia Koden, and Or:la delivering sets that embodied the forward-thinking sound championed by DJ Mag’s Best of British. As another year draws to a close, it’s clear that London—especially the creative neighborhoods around Shoreditch—remains a vital center for electronic music culture. The DJ Mag Best of British awards not only celebrate the past year’s achievements but also set the stage for the innovation, sound experimentation, and community building that will define the year ahead. Keep an eye on these winners and nominees—there’s no doubt they’ll continue shaping the soundtrack of London’s nightlife well into 2024 and beyond.
