Max HeyraudSoundCloud’s recently released Music Intelligence Report provides a clear picture of where dance music is headed in 2025.
The numbers speak for themselves: UK garage, tech-house, and trance are leading the charge, with each experiencing a significant increase in plays over the last year. More than just a reflection of streaming habits, these shifts point to broader trends shaping club culture and festival bookings around the world.
According to SoundCloud data, UK garage and bassline have seen a 31% increase in plays, with a projected 20% growth rate for the coming year. Minimal and tech-house have consistently risen in popularity, remaining one of the UK’s top genres while also experiencing a 40% increase in the US and a 14% rise in Germany. Artists like Robbie Doherty, Obskür, and Josh Baker have played a significant role in driving this growth.
Perhaps the most surprising discovery is the resurgence of trance. Trance has upload growth has grown overall by 29 percent which showcases a major shift in the genres popularury with help from artists like Ben Nicky, Symmetrik and This renewed energy is consistent with a larger trend towards euphoric, emotionally charged dance music, which provides an alternative to the darker, industrial sounds that have dominated in recent years.
With 46.5% of SoundCloud’s listening activity dedicated to music released in the last 18 months—nearly double the industry average—it’s clear that the platform remains a vital space for emerging movements. Whether these trends will sustain their momentum, spark new scenes, or change how music is consumed remains uncertain. But these shifts in music consumption do seem overwhelmingly positive.
You can read the full report here.
Photo Credits: Wibez Photography
