AceShowbiz - Billboard has released its first Dance Power Players list since 2019, revealing an industry transformed by fresh talent, innovative events, and evolving business models. Over seven years, a new wave of producers and executives has propelled dance music into new creative and commercial territories, even as many of the genre’s original pioneers remain actively involved. This dynamic blend of generations fosters a vibrant exchange of ideas, strategies, and cultural influences that continue to shape the sound and culture of dance music worldwide.

The honorees on this prestigious list exemplify the dance genre’s ongoing innovation, resilience, and cultural impact. Dance music remains a vital inspiration source for some of today’s biggest global artists, fueled by a passionate community that embraces the genre not merely as a business but as a lifestyle. This report highlights key executives and leaders who have been instrumental in driving this momentum forward.

Executive of the Year

The title of Executive of the Year goes to Danny Bell, Senior Vice President of Goldenvoice/AEG Presents, who has been a defining force behind the San Francisco-based dance festival Portola. Since its 2022 inception, Portola has invigorated the U.S. electronic music scene by blending legendary acts with the freshest talent, setting a new standard for large-scale dance events.

Danny Bell describes the pressure that comes with curating lineups that consistently raise the bar. “Every year after I’m done booking the lineup, I’m like, ‘How the f-k am I going to top this?’” he says, emphasizing the challenge and passion behind his role. Portola’s 2025 edition was a landmark, featuring iconic artists such as The Prodigy, Moby, Underworld, and The Chemical Brothers alongside emerging stars, providing a unique experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers.

Portola’s setting at Pier 80, a sprawling 60-acre shipping site on the San Francisco Bay, adds to the festival’s distinctive atmosphere. The surrounding industrial elements, including a 170-foot cargo crane and a docked ship that sounds its horn daily during the festival, contribute to the immersive experience. The event spans four stages, one of which is a massive 200,000-square-foot warehouse capable of hosting 20,000 attendees. This venue has showcased performances by artists like Fred again.., Peggy Gou, Sara Landry, and Chris Lake back-to-back with Armand van Helden.

Leading Record Labels and Executives

Among record labels, Armada Music Group stands out under the leadership of co-founder and CEO Maykel Piron. The label’s recent launch of a creative hub in London, equipped with integrated studios and a club, marks a significant milestone. This facility supports their joint venture with Simon Dunmore, strengthening a growing catalog and advancing Armada’s mission to build one of the world’s most iconic dance music libraries.

At Atlantic Music Group, Executive Vice President Jeremy Vuernick, Vice President of Digital Marketing Cassie Anderson, Executive Vice President and Co-Head of A&R Pop & Rock Brandon Davis, and Vice President of Marketing and GM of Big Beat Records Gavin Ryan have played pivotal roles in elevating the label’s dance presence. Anderson highlights the success of summer hits such as Disco Lines and Tinashe’s “No Broke Boys,” propelled by global creator activations that pushed “No Broke Boys” to No. 1 on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. Similarly, Fred again..’s “Victory Lap” gained momentum through innovative live teases that generated significant online buzz, earning a Grammy nomination for best dance/electronic recording.

Brandon Davis expresses pride in Atlantic’s strong showing at this year’s Grammys, where the label secured eight nominations in the dance/electronic category. Four of the five nominees for best dance/electronic album—Skrillex, Fred again.., PinkPantheress, and FKA twigs—were Atlantic artists, each delivering bold, boundary-pushing projects that continue to redefine the genre.

Because Music co-founder and CEO Emmanuel de Buretel also made significant contributions by spearheading global campaigns that boosted Justice and Ed Banger’s success. Their album “Hyperdrama,” which earned both a Billboard No. 1 and a Grammy for best dance/electronic recording, was supported by a dazzling tour. The label also expanded its roster with emerging electronic artists like Snow Strippers and Tatyana Jane and orchestrated a high-profile Daft Punk partnership with Fortnite, marking one of the most ambitious music collaborations within the gaming platform.

Leigh Morgan and Mark Lawrence, Global Directors of b:electronic and its publishing arm at Believe, have overseen exponential growth that surpasses market trends. Their integrated approach, combining distribution, publishing, and strategic consulting, enables them to act as true extensions of their label partners, providing customized roadmaps for international scaling.

At Broke Records, co-founders Andre Benz and Brandon De Oliveira have revitalized their brand’s Trap Nation roots.

Together, these executives and their organizations demonstrate the vibrant, multifaceted nature of the dance music industry. Their leadership not only advances the sound and culture of electronic music but also ensures its relevance and growth in an ever-changing global marketplace. As dance music evolves, these power players set the pace, shaping the scene for years to come.