Will Runzel finally joins The XLNT Show, and this episode goes DEEP into the *real* mechanics of building a career in dance music. From throwing college raves in Indiana and getting fired from clubs, to booking Steve Aoki, Calvin Harris, Zedd, and helping launch projects like **NGHTMRE, Slander, Joyryde, Audien** and more, Will breaks down the parts of the industry most producers and DJs never get honest access to.We get into his full come-up, the wins and brutal losses, and then turn it into actionable game for artists who actually want to make this a career.
In this episode, we talk about:
- Will’s origin story- From college parties to full-on touring
- Joining Steve Aoki & building Dim Mak Tuesdays
- Talent buying, fees, and how the money *actually* works
- Negotiation & offers (for DJs and producers)
- From talent buyer to manager & founding Prodigy Artists
- Stories behind Slander, Nightmare, Joyryde & Good Vibrations
- What a manager actually does (and doesn’t do)
- When you’re really ready for a manager
- Branding and storytelling for artists
- Multi-genre vs. picking a lane- Step-by-step blueprint for new artists (2026 reality check)
- EDM right now: is it still growing?
- How to actually pitch yourself to people like Will
Whether you’re a producer trying to break out, a DJ who wants to understand the business behind offers and fees, or an artist trying to build a real brand in a crowded EDM scene, this episode is packed with gems.
