Montell2099 has become a defining force in New Zealand’s electronic scene.
The Auckland-based DJ and producer – originally from Katikati – has been delivering electrifying anthems and thriving on collaboration for years. He’s worked with big names like Netsky, RL Grime, Wilkinson, and German producer Sublab, blending innovative beats with standout guest features.
His live shows are a full sensory experience – laser-packed, visual spectacles that have taken him from a trap set in Lake Alta’s mountains to Tomorrowland in Belgium, where he became the first NZ artist booked to play the iconic festival.
Despite playing major festivals across the globe, Montell keeps his music personal. “I’ve always liked the idea of pulling influences together and expressing them through the lens of a DJ from Aotearoa New Zealand, whilst also having a bit of a groove,” he said.
NZ’s electronic scene isn’t just keeping pace – it’s surging forward with Montell2099 leading the charge. —Sarah Downs
Read an exclusive interview with Montell2099 below. Check out the full Future of Music 2025 list here.
Rolling Stone AU/NZ: How was 2024 for you? What were your biggest achievements and favourite moments?
Montell2099: It was great!! I think a standout was playing Tomorrowland for the 2nd time. Honestly that festival blows me away with its scale and level of production. Another thing that blew me away was the support from all the ANZACs. I felt right at home when I was playing because you’d look out to the crowd and see a sea of Aussie and New Zealand flags.
Also, not trying to be biased but I think we come with a different type of energy at show and the rest of the crowd feeds off that, so it makes for an amazing experience for everyone. On a personal note, I got a little Cavoodle puppy in 2024 and mate, she’s been a game changer. It’s pretty hard to have a bad day when you got a little ball of fluff smiling and wagging its tail at you 24/7 haha.
Music is an increasingly crowded and competitive field. What’s one thing that makes you stand out from other artists
This is something I have to remind myself of sometimes lol. Whilst it’s important to stay open and inspired by new sounds, genres, and styles coming through, I think one thing that is vital is staying true to yourself. No one else in the world is you, no one has all your unique qualities and tastes or perspectives. Being an artist is about not being afraid to embrace that uniqueness… You will stand out but that’s the whole point. Its about being confident in your uniqueness and not being afraid to show it to the world.
What’s coming up for you in 2025 and beyond? Any big shows, notable releases?
Music, music, and more music! I have so many songs in the pipeline that I’m keen to put out into the world, so people can keep their eyes and ears locked in for that!
One show that just recently got announced was Snow Machine Queenstown… There’s so many cool acts on the lineup so it’s gearing up to be a big one. Another is this show we’re currently rolling out with Woodstock in Auckland where we are playing a show at a secret location for a very select few people.
I’ve been lucky enough to do some amazing DJ sets in some incredible places around the country. One of them was in Karekare Beach and another was Lake Alta in Queenstown. I can’t say too much right now, but it’s going to be epic. There’s a few things floating around in the live space as well that haven’t been announced yet, but I’m super excited for [them]. It’s looking like I’ll be making a few stops in Australia this year too, so looking forward to that as well!
