### A Shift in Sound: Afrojack’s CONTROL Tour Embraces Underground Roots
Afrojack is shaking up the traditional festival-headliner touring model with the announcement of his CONTROL Tour support lineup. Rather than opting for the standard roster of big-room mainstage acts, the Dutch superstar has curated a collection of artists that signals a deliberate pivot toward deeper, club-centric soundscapes.
The tour, which features heavy hitters like Green Velvet, Loco Dice, Tiga, Murda Beatz, and HILLS, is set to hit major venues this autumn, including a high-profile date at Brooklyn Storehouse on October 2 and a massive showcase at the Shrine Exposition Hall in Los Angeles on November 27.
#### Curating a New Sonic Identity
This lineup is far from a generic collection of tour support; it serves as a mirror to Afrojack’s evolving musical direction. Over the last 12 months, the producer has been steadily bridging the gap between his signature high-energy anthems and the gritty, rhythmic textures of house and techno.
By inviting these specific collaborators, Afrojack is reinforcing his commitment to this transition. These artists aren’t just filling slots; they are creative partners who align with his recent studio output. For instance, his collaboration with Green Velvet-which saw the two performing a surprise back-to-back set at a Coachella afterparty-highlights a newfound appreciation for the raw, percussive roots of Chicago house. Green Velvet’s legendary status, cemented by his seminal work on Relief Records and the iconic “Flash,” provides a credible foundation for this new chapter in Afrojack’s career.
#### Deepening Ties to the Underground
The influence of the underground is further evidenced by Afrojack’s recent business and creative moves. His release of “Monopoly Man” via Loco Dice’s esteemed Desolat label was a clear statement of intent. By aligning himself with a label synonymous with the tougher, more minimalist side of the electronic spectrum, Afrojack is actively distancing himself from the “EDM” label that defined his early career.
This shift comes at a time when the electronic music industry is seeing a massive resurgence in house and techno popularity. According to recent industry reports, house music remains the most-streamed genre in the electronic space, with a 15% year-over-year increase in listeners seeking out “club-ready” rather than “festival-ready” sounds. Afrojack’s decision to bring artists like Tiga and Loco Dice on the road suggests he is not just following this trend, but actively participating in the evolution of the global dance floor.
