In a heartfelt series of tweets, Skrillex shared profound insights about his artistic journey, the passing of his hero Quincy Jones, and the complexities of the music industry. Reflecting on the serendipity of success, he wrote, “The best things come when they aren’t expected,” emphasizing the importance of living in the moment.

Skrillex also paid tribute to Quincy Jones, calling him an “absolute hero” and expressing gratitude for a personal interaction that deeply inspired him. Highlighting the darker side of the industry, he compared it to politics, acknowledging the struggles young artists face in navigating its illusions and delusions. Despite the challenges, he affirmed his commitment to creating music that evokes beauty and emotion, inspiring fans worldwide.

This rare glimpse into Skrillex’s thoughts showcases a reflective, optimistic artist embracing his journey while staying grounded in his purpose.

Jake Paul’s unexpected appearance at Shaq’s Bass All-Stars Festival has sparked a mix of reactions from the EDM community. The YouTuber-turned-boxer, fresh off his victory over Mike Tyson, was brought on stage by DJ Diesel (Shaq) in Ft. Worth. While some fans booed his cameo, others debated its impact on the event’s authenticity.

Shaq, known for supporting up-and-coming bass artists, has long been an advocate for the EDM scene. However, many fans questioned the decision to involve controversial figures like Jake Paul, suggesting that the spotlight should be reserved for rising talents.

Despite the criticism, Diesel’s sets remain a gateway for new fans to discover bass music. However, moments like these raise concerns about prioritizing viral publicity over genuine artistic contributions. The incident has reignited discussions about celebrity involvement in EDM and how it shapes the genre’s future.

Alesso delivered an unforgettable and emotional moment at EDC Orlando as he honored the late Liam Payne with a moving tribute. Stopping his set at the festival’s circuit ground stage, Alesso addressed the crowd with heartfelt words before playing their 2020 collaboration, “Midnight.” As the track’s opening notes filled the air, the audience created a breathtaking scene, raising their phone lights in unison to illuminate the night sky.

The tribute highlighted Payne’s lasting legacy and the resilience symbolized by their hit track, originally released during the pandemic. The crowd’s shared grief and Alesso’s touching gesture were a reminder of the deep connections music fosters. With “Midnight“ as the backdrop, the moment was both somber and uplifting, reflecting the profound impact Payne left on fans and collaborators alike.

For fans of Rezz’s dark, atmospheric sound but craving beats with more complexity, there’s a growing roster of artists pushing the boundaries of midtempo and experimental bass music. Deathpact stands out with intricately layered drum patterns, frequently elevating every collaboration they touch. Similarly, Gesaffelstein brings haunting, cinematic production with dynamic beats that captivate.

Tipper and EPROM are legends in crafting unpredictable, experimental rhythms, while newer acts like Quackson and Zabo blend midtempo grooves with forward-thinking sound design. For a psytrance-inspired twist, Mr. Bill’s collaborations with Infected Mushroom and Freddy Todd’s bass experiments are must-hears.

Whether it’s Blanke’s hard-hitting collabs or Pretty Lights‘ genre-defying live sets, there’s no shortage of artists reinvigorating the darker side of electronic music. Dive into their catalogs and discover a world beyond Rezz.