The Algorithm vs. The Curator: Who Breaks Dance Records in 2026?
As dance music consumption becomes increasingly data-driven, the question of the importance of algorithmic discovery and human curation has never been more pronounced. Are breakout electronic records truly driven by DSP recommendation engines and short-form virality — or do experienced programmers, radio tastemakers, online influencers, and editorial leads still shape discovering the hits? And what does the future hold?
Speakers
- Jeremy Drane Audiopool Cofounder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Strategy Officer
- Ben Harvey Pandora Director, Dance & Electronic Music Programming
- Oz McGuire Symphonic Distribution VP of A&R and Business Development
- Steve Cardigan Putyouon Music Group Founder
- Ian Asher DJ / Producer
- Laetitia Berry Deezer Senior Global Dance Editor