Legacy in the Loop: How Movement Festival 2025 Echoes the Roots and Future of Techno
Introduction
There’s a rhythm that never fades — one born not just of beats and basslines, but of shared struggle, resilience, and evolution. Over Memorial Day weekend, Detroit’s Movement Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary — a moment not just of musical celebration, but of cultural remembrance.
For those of us connected to dance music, this wasn’t just another festival. It was a reminder of where it all began, and a signal of where we’re going. In this post, we reflect on the legacy of Movement Festival 2025, spotlight a headlining artist shaping house music’s next chapter, and invite you to engage more deeply with the roots of our scene.
Detroit’s Heartbeat: 25 Years of Movement
Held annually in the birthplace of techno, Movement Festival stands as one of the longest-running electronic music events in the world. 2025 marked its 25th year — a milestone few festivals reach, especially with such unwavering authenticity.
Set against Detroit’s iconic Hart Plaza, Movement has always been more than a lineup. It’s a tribute to the city’s Black innovators who pioneered techno in the 1980s. The festival’s roots are deeply woven into Detroit’s socio-political history — a soundscape born from machinery, resistance, and creativity.
This year’s edition honored that heritage with a lineup that balanced legends and newcomers, including powerful sets from Charlotte de Witte, Floorplan, and DJ Minx — all while reaffirming the genre’s global relevance.
Artist Spotlight: HoneyLuv
Tech House’s Next Icon in the Making
In a genre historically dominated by European and male names, HoneyLuv is carving her path with undeniable skill and swagger. Originally from Cleveland, this former collegiate athlete and Navy veteran has become one of the most exciting names in American house music, known for her fresh, dynamic sets and infectious presence behind the decks.
A performer at Movement 2025, HoneyLuv brought a genre-spanning sound that paid homage to the roots of Chicago house while embracing the forward motion of tech house and future house. Her style is unapologetically bold — rhythmic, vocal-heavy, and built for bodies in motion.
🔉 Genres: Tech House, Vocal House, Deep House
📍 Style: Bass-forward, groove-driven, with smooth transitions and a strong sense of narrative
Recent releases like “Your Tongue” and her Defected Records work reflect a mastery of dancefloor energy and sonic storytelling. But HoneyLuv isn’t just about the music — she’s here to represent. As a queer Black woman in EDM, she speaks often about creating safe spaces and increasing representation in dance culture.
Her message is clear: the future of house music is inclusive, bold, and deeply rooted in joy. And she’s leading that charge — one beat drop at a time.
This Week in Orlando: Must-See EDM Events
Here’s what’s happening from Friday to Thursday at our city’s premier venues:
Friday, May 23
Afrojack – The Vanguard – 10:00 PM
Saturday, May 24
Eskuche – Elixir – 10:00 PM
Sunday, May 25
LEFT ON READ – The Social – 9:00 PM
Monday, May 26
Martaze, Vanirz, Proxmosos, Zurg, dLo (FL), FVDENING – Iron Cow – 8:00 PM
Wednesday, May 28
Gettoblaster – Celine Orlando – 10:00 PM
Note: Event details are subject to change. Please check the official event pages for the most current information.
Connecting with Orlando’s EDM community is easier than you think. Start by attending smaller, local shows where you can meet other fans and discover hidden gems in the scene. Follow venues like The Beacham and The Social on social media for updates, and don’t forget to network with fellow attendees—it’s a great way to find future events and build friendships.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore the venue, secure the best spot near the DJ, and soak in the full experience.
Challenge: Explore smaller venues like Haven Orlando to catch intimate performances and uncover rising stars.
How to Engage with Orlando’s EDM Community
To fully embrace and contribute to this dynamic musical movement:
Attend Local Events: Participate in live performances and DJ sets that celebrate the fusion of funk, disco, and house music.
Explore New Music: Dive into playlists and albums that highlight this genre blend, supporting both established and emerging artists.
Join Online Communities: Engage with forums, social media groups, and local meetups dedicated to EDM enthusiasts to share experiences and discover new music.
Support Local Venues: Frequent clubs and event spaces that host nights dedicated to these genres, fostering a vibrant local music scene.
By immersing yourself in these activities, you not only enrich your personal musical journey but also contribute to the thriving community that keeps this genre alive and evolving.
