Spotify Reports 94% Surge in Drum ‘N’ Bass Popularity Over Three Years

Drum ‘N’ Bass Streaming Growth

According to Spotify, Drum ‘N’ Bass streams have surged by an impressive 94 percent over the last three years.

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Drum ‘N’ Bass (or DnB) has witnessed a revival in recent years. While the subgenre has maintained a loyal following, its popularity has skyrocketed with tracks like Chase & Status’ “BACKBONE” featuring Stormzy and their 2023 hit Baddadan.

In a new Spotify mini-documentary titled DnB: For Life, artists such as Charlie Tee, Flight, Kanine, SPY, and others delve into the genre’s oral history, discussing its influences and origins.

The documentary reveals statistics based on user data, stating that the “average annual streams for the Drum ‘N’ Bass genre on Spotify have increased by 94 percent since 2021.”

Top Artists and Industry Challenges

Among the top 10 artists in this genre according to Spotify, as reported by MixMag, are Chase & Status, Bou, Rudimental, Goddard, Sub Focus, Charlotte Plank, Skepsis, Hybrid Minds, SHY FX, and Nia Archives.

Interestingly, 68 percent of the genre’s listeners are under 34, highlighting a growing interest from younger demographics. However, the Drum ‘N’ Bass scene—and other nightlife venues—across the UK faces significant challenges.

A recent study by the Nightlife Industry Association (NTIA) warned that without substantial changes, clubbing in the UK might become “extinct” by the decade’s end. Since March 2020, data indicates that 37 percent of all clubs nationwide have closed permanently, averaging three closures a week, totaling 150 clubs each year. If this trend continues, all UK venues could shut down by December 31, 2029.

Chase & Status UK Tour

In September, Drum ‘N’ Bass pioneers Chase & Status announced a UK tour for 2025, offering a spark of optimism for the genre.

They are set to perform at arenas in Glasgow (April 29), Manchester (May 1), Birmingham (May 2), London (May 3), Nottingham (May 5), Cardiff (May 6), Plymouth (May 7), and Bournemouth (May 8). Tickets are already available – you can purchase yours here.

Chase & Status UK Tour Dates 2025:

APRIL
29 – OVO Hydro, Glasgow

MAY
01 – Co-broadcast, Manchester
02 – Utility Arena, Birmingham
03 – O2, London
05 – Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
06 – Utility Arena, Cardiff
07 – Plymouth Pavilions, Plymouth
08 – Bournemouth International Centre, Bournemouth