#UPnXtDJ Contest Returns to DJX ‘26, Empowering the Next Generation of DJs
Presented in partnership with BASSBOSS, the fourth annual #UPnXtDJ competition offers aspiring DJs under 18 the opportunity to showcase their skills, earn industry exposure, and perform live at DJX in Atlantic City.
DJX is once again shining a spotlight on the future of DJ culture with the return of the #UPnXtDJ Contest. Now in its fourth year, the nationwide competition invites DJs under the age of 18 from across the continental United States to submit their best mixes for a chance to perform live during DJX ‘26, taking place August 10–13 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Presented in partnership with BASSBOSS, the program continues its mission of helping young talent gain real-world experience on one of the industry's biggest stages.
More than just a contest, #UPnXtDJ is designed to connect the next generation of DJs with professional opportunities and valuable industry exposure. The first-place winner will receive a complimentary nXt DJ Summer Camp class, hotel accommodations for themselves and a guardian, two DJX All Access Passes, and a featured performance during DJX. Second- and third-place finalists will also perform at the show, while the top 10 contestants will earn the opportunity to perform live at the BASSBOSS booth in front of artists, exhibitors, industry professionals, and fellow DJs.
The competition is part of DJX's ongoing commitment to developing emerging talent through its nXt initiative. Led by Coach Hapa, the nXt DJ Summer Camp helps young DJs build technical ability, confidence, and stage presence through hands-on instruction and live performance opportunities. By combining education with professional experiences, the program continues to create pathways for aspiring artists looking to take the next step in their DJ careers.
Submission Information
Launch Date: June 23, 2026
End Date: July 12, 2026
Winners Announced: July 22, 2026
How to Enter:
Record a DJ performance video (5 minutes) and introduce yourself with your DJ name and age
Post your video on social media using #UPnXtDJ
Complete the official entry form at https://tinyurl.com/upnxtdj2026
Entries will be evaluated based on creativity, music selection, and transitions.
Prizes
1st Place:
Complimentary nXt DJ Summer Camp Class
Hotel accommodations in Atlantic City (winner + one guardian)
Performance at the DJX Show
Performance opportunity at the BASSBOSS booth
DJX and BASSBOSS promotional features
Post-show coverage in DJ LIFE Digital
Lifetime DJ LIFE Digital subscription
DJX Exhibit passes (contestant + guardian)
2nd & 3rd Place:
Performance at the DJX Show
Performance opportunity at the BASSBOSS booth
DJX and BASSBOSS promotional features
Post-show coverage in DJ LIFE Digital
Lifetime DJ LIFE Digital subscription
DJX Exhibit passes (contestant + guardian)
Register for nXt@DJX, HERE.