Ultranauts are you ready?

The name Ultra has become synonymous with Electronic Dance Music (EDM) the world over.

It is a name that not only encapsulates some of the biggest dance parties in the world, but a name that represents the variety of emotions EDM lovers experience when they listen to this genre.

In recent years, EDM has exploded on the South African market.
With internationally acclaimed producers and disc jockeys such as Protoculture, Black Coffee, Goldfish and many more coming from South African shores, it’s no wonder why international EDM festivals are gracing our market.

One of the pioneering men behind bringing international acts to South Africa, promoter and DJ, Shaun Duvet spoke to us.

With two days left until Cape Town and Johannesberg are rocked by the international festival the Ultra vibe has really struck home.

“Five years ago, a team of us decided to bring of Deadmau5, Skrillex and other international DJs to the country. We always had the vision of bringing massive festival with everyone down, and this connection led us to Ultra.”

Last year, Ultra SA was claimed to be the best EDM event staged in South Africa, and the responses the Ultra team received was proof enough.

With a line-up featuring legendary Armin van Buuren, dynamic duo Axwell and Ingorosso, rising star Martin Garrix and the number one ranked DJ in the world, Hardwell, it is understandable why the festival attracted such a dynamic and diverse crowd.

“Every artist is important to us, because we know how important they are to our fans. We are really excited about this year’s line-up,” said Duvet.

But what is Ultra? For those still in the dark, Ultra is a musical phenomenon.
For attendees its not just about the music. It’s about the vibe at each venue, each country and ever show.

In fact, Ultra worldwide has a following of fans who attend almost every show.

“Both our South African cities are special in their own way. Jo’burg is more party orientated. Cape Town is friendly and relaxed, but the music is great at both.”

Unsurprisingly, as with every major event, the internet trolls began their tirade of insults at Ultra management for seemingly not bringing the right DJs to the country.

According to Duvet, they are used to dealing with criticisms from Internet trolls and he is confident the months of preparation for Ultra will ensure the event is a huge success.

“People have a lot to say. All I can say to our critics is come to the show and experience the amazing atmosphere for yourself. Ultra is my baby. It is a lifestyle. It is a global family!”

Any DJs out there who want to catch the eye of Ultra and find themselves personally playing at the event? Well if you fall into this category, Duvet has some advice for you.

“Be true to yourself, follow your heart into the music. Treat it like everything else you want in your life. Work hard, but make sure you know whether you want to do it full-time or as a hobby. Know the difference and we will find you, because passion and skill are the keys to launching any career,” he concluded.

So which South African DJs does Duvet really have his eye on at the moment?

Black Coffee, Nightride, Goldfish, Protoculture and DJ Kent are just some of the local DJs Duvet feels have not only consistently delivered excellence, but have also spread their wings in recent months.

Although some people may be missing Ultra this weekend, Duvet says another big show will be coming up in April, as DJ Showtek rocks the stage at H2O.

So get ready Ultranauts for the epic life-changing event that is Ultra this weekend!