Birds of a Feather Flock Together: How the Iconic Dirtybird Label Soared to New Heights in 2023
Dirtybird found many new nests to conquer this year, the venerated label ruffling more than a few feathers as they fearlessly pioneered new sounds with big plans for 2024.
Founded by "Papa Bird" Claude VonStroke in 2005, Dirtybird and its alluring beats swept fans away like a falcon diving for prey during a transformative year. The imprint's influence within dance music remained undisputed this year as they showcased an unwavering commitment to global representation, with releases from artists across 13 countries, including Japan, Germany, Brazil, Israel and more.
Dirtybird is coming off two of its strongest streaming quarters, Label Manager Deron Delgado tells EDM.com. And despite the cessation of the brand's beloved CampInn festival, fans can look forward to a bright future for its ventures in the event space.
"Although Dirtybird is moving away from marquee events like Dirtybird CampINN, the label is planning new festivals, parties and free pop-ups throughout 2024," Delgado added. "So stay tuned."
The Dirtybird nest overflowed with fresh musical eggs, hatching hit after hit from both veteran label artists and promising newcomers alike. A landmark accomplishment this year was securing the most Spotify editorial playlists in the label's storied history, underscoring its resonance with diverse audiences. They also welcomed 35 new acts, including a few legends, like Steve Lawler and Davide Squillace.
This year was also the first time a female was the top artist from Dirtybird releases. That accolade was nabbed by rising house music superstar VNSSA, whose single "One Pill" was named one of EDM.com's best songs of 2023 and added to Spotify’s "Best IDs of 2023" playlist.
The label's loyal fanbase of diehards also partied at five free events throughout the year, like a festive Dirtybird Holiday Party and coveted showcases at SXSW and ADE. Dirtybird also hosted pop-up events at Chicago's ARC and Detroit's Movement, among other major music festivals, and a pie-in-the-sky stage takeover at Miami's fabled Ultra.
As we look back at Dirtybird's stellar 2023, let's revisit some of the label's defining moments.
Diplo performing VNSSA’s "One Pill" at Higher Ground in London
Diplo performing VNSSA’s "One Pill" at ADE
Dom Dolla performing Walker & Royce’s "Cheap Thrills" at EDC Orlando
Dom Dolla performing VNSSA’s "These Notes In This Order" remix at Tomorrowland
Dom Dolla B2B Green Velvet B2B John Summit performing Claude VonStroke’s "Penguin Hit Squad" remix at EDC Orlando
FISHER performing Bruno Furlan & DJ Glen’s "Another Planet" VIP
Green Velvet performing Claude VonStroke’s "Penguin Hit Squad" remix
Mochakk performing Cour T.’s "TRiiiBAILE"
Nala performing Smalltown DJs x Joanna Magik’s "Energy" at Outside Lands
Walker & Royce performing "Cheap Thrills" at Frost Amphitheater
VNSSA performing "One Pill" at Club Space
Bruno Furland B2B DJ Glen performing their "Another Planet" VIP
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