Calling warm-up DJs and residents around the world, we're offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become the label’s newest resident DJ for 2022, with the launch of competition, Unsung Heroes.

Supported by Pioneer DJ, the competition will give up-and-coming DJ talent access to Defected’s growing community of dedicated house heads and residencies across our offering of overseas events and live streams. Launching today, entrants will be asked to submit a 60-min DJ mix as well as a recommendation from a club owner, promoter or established DJ in support of their contribution to their local music scene. Shortlisted artists will be chosen from the entries based on their mixing expertise, track selections and experience as a warm-up DJ.

Reviewing the entries will be our panel of renowned artists including Roger Sanchez, Cinthie, Yousef, Sef Kombo, Melvo Baptiste, Sam Divine and Mambo Brothers.

Championing the rising stars of the international dance scene, Unsung Heroes will provide the ultimate global platform for a DJ who has been the backbone of their local music scene and is ready to embark on the next step in their music careers. Unlike any other DJ competition or search for talent before it, Unsung Heroes is all about recognising the vital part resident DJs play in the makeup of clubland and giving recognition to the often under-appreciated art of the warm-up set. Winners will be welcomed into the Defected family, contributing to parties across the globe from London to Ibiza, Croatia and Malta. With an array of judges across the breadth of the house music spectrum recruited to help with the search, Unsung Heroes is a statement of our ongoing dedication to investing in fresh talent and club culture as a whole.