Forbes’ 2024 list of the highest-paid DJs shines a spotlight on the global titans of electronic music, many of whom have Ibiza woven into their legacy. These artists not only rank at the top of the earnings chart but also fuel Ibiza’s legendary nightlife, reinforcing its status as the ultimate destination for dance music lovers.
Calvin Harris – The world’s highest-paid DJ with $48.5 million
Leading the rankings with an impressive $48.5 million, Calvin Harris remains the highest-paid DJ in the world. His residency at Ushuaïa Ibiza continues to draw huge crowds, making it one of the island’s hottest events.
Known for his iconic house tracks and pop collaborations, Calvin Harris delivers sets that blend catchy beats with flawless production, creating unforgettable moments on Ibiza’s biggest stages.
In addition to his headlining slots, Calvin Harris is often spotted at exclusive afterparties, further adding to his Ibiza allure.
Tiësto – $39.0 million in earnings
With $39 million in earnings, Tiësto is a master of reinvention and a staple of the electronic scene. In 2024, he headlined key events at Hï Ibiza, thrilling fans with a signature sound that effortlessly bridges the gap between festival hits and intimate club vibes.
Though he didn’t hold a full residency this year, Tiësto’s appearances remain a highlight of Ibiza’s summer season. His ability to read the crowd and elevate the energy in real-time cements his legacy as a must-see performer.
The Chainsmokers – $38.0 Million
Earning $38 million, The Chainsmokers have become synonymous with high-energy, genre-blending sets. Their 2024 performances at Ushuaïa and Pacha featured live vocals and global hits like ‘Closer’, ensuring packed dancefloors.
Their ability to fuse pop and EDM elements makes them a magnetic force in Ibiza’s nightlife. Fans praised their interactive stage presence, which added a personal touch to their shows.
Skrillex – $30.0 Million
Skrillex’s $30 million earnings underscore his continued dominance as a genre-bending powerhouse. His 2024 appearances stood out for their unpredictability, combining dubstep with house, bass, and experimental sounds.
Fans flocked to witness his cutting-edge remixes and boundary-pushing style, making his shows an essential stop for partygoers seeking something unique. Skrillex’s talent for blending hard-hitting beats with melodic interludes ensures his place in the music scene.
Steve Aoki – $29.5 million
Steve Aoki’s $29.5 million income reflects his unmatched popularity and showmanship. His electrifying 2024 Ibiza performances featured his signature cake-throwing antics and adrenaline-fueled remixes. Aoki’s charismatic approach and larger-than-life sets ensure that his Ibiza shows remain unforgettable.
Beyond the music, Aoki’s fan engagement—both on stage and on social media—has solidified his status as a global EDM ambassador.
Diplo – $28.5 million
Diplo’s $28.5 million earnings highlight his ability to transcend musical genres. His performances featured everything from house to dancehall, catering to both underground music lovers and mainstream fans.
Diplo’s sets perfectly encapsulate the diverse soundscape of electronic music scene, proving why he remains a standout performer. Whether playing at beach clubs or headlining packed venues, Diplo consistently delivers a fresh, unpredictable sound.
David Guetta – $25.0 million
David Guetta, with $25 million in earnings, is an undisputed icon of Ibiza’s nightlife. His ‘Future Rave’ residency at Hï Ibiza redefines the typical EDM experience, delivering an electrifying mix of commercial hits and underground influences.
His ability to reinvent his music while staying true to his roots keeps his residency a staple for Ibiza’s party scene. Guetta’s collaborations with emerging DJs also highlight his commitment to evolving the EDM genre.
Marshmello – $21.0 million
Marshmello earned $21 million in 2024, captivating the crowds with his crossover appeal. His sets at Ushuaïa seamlessly blended EDM, hip-hop, and pop, creating an inclusive atmosphere that attracted fans from all backgrounds.
Marshmello’s versatility makes him a key fixture in Ibiza’s summer line-up. His unique brand and recognisable image ensure that he remains an international phenomenon both on and off the stage.
Martin Garrix – $19.5 million
Martin Garrix’s $19.5 million earnings reflect his enduring appeal as a leader in the EDM world. His residency at Ushuaïa Ibiza in 2024 was a must-see, with fans flocking to hear his melodic progressions and euphoric drops. Tracks like ‘Animals’ and ‘Scared to Be Lonely’ continue to define his energetic sets, making him a favourite among Ibiza’s festival-goers.
Garrix’s passion for live shows and his engagement with the crowd create an electric atmosphere every time he performs.
Zedd – $19.0 million
Closing the top 10 is Zedd, with $19 million in earnings. His polished productions and emotive tracks brought something fresh to the music scene. Zedd’s signature style of mixing intricate melodies with powerful dance beats resonated with clubbers looking for a blend of emotion and rhythm.
Fans were drawn to his visually stunning shows, which combined music with cutting-edge visuals for a multisensory experience.
Ibiza’s role in the success of the world’s highest-paid DJs
The DJs in Forbes’ 2024 list of the highest-paid stars not only dominate the charts but also help shape the global music scene, with Ibiza at the heart of their success. Their performances and residencies draw thousands of music lovers to the island every summer, solidifying Ibiza’s reputation as the premier hub for electronic music. Whether through sold-out residencies, surprise appearances, or beachside parties, these DJs continue to set the standard for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Ibiza’s influence extends beyond its shores—what happens on the island often shapes music trends worldwide. The top DJs featured in this list are not just performers; they are cultural icons whose work defines the sound of an entire generation.
