Why EDM hates Donald Trump
The Republican definitely isn't the kandi candidate
Highlight of this year's Ultra Music Festival? It had to be The Chainsmokers, known for dumb-as-fuck viral hit '#SELFIE', using their headline slot on the Ultra Worldwide stage to say, "Do not support Donald Trump". The statement was met with a roar of support from a sea of ravers. Coming in a close second that weekend was Hardwell collaborator MAKJ, who incited a "Fuck Donald Trump" chant during his set on the Main Stage. Although Pendulum played their first live show for four years and there was more 'underground' dance music on offer at the festival than ever before, it felt like this bristling anti-Trump feeling was the most significant thing that went down in Miami.
Given their penchant for big room beats, Spring Break-style hedonism and fluro fashion, you'd be forgiven for thinking that EDM (kandi) ravers and the DJs who guide them are as apathetic as they come. But with the US election looming and the once absurd prospect of a Trump victory growing realer by the day, it seems like the EDM legion has found its political voice.
The children of PLUR (the age-old American rave values of peace, love, unity and respect) have sided with Democrat nominee Bernie Sanders and his left-leaning beliefs, which include fighting inequality, acting on climate change and making sure everyone gets paid a decent, living wage. And they've been noisy about it. Diplo's lent his 2013 anthem 'Revolution' to Sanders'campaign, sharing the news via Instagram by imploring, "Make sure u go vote in the primaries". PLUR guru and long-serving US DJ Tommie Sunshine is also a very vocal supporter of Sanders and has played a fundraiser for the Democrat in New York. Steve Aoki's co-signed a 'Bernie Sanders rave' and elsewhere online, idealistic ravers have started petitions to get the likes of Bassnectar to play Sanders benefit parties.
