PROPER NYE/NYD returns to Petco Park with one of its most diverse and ambitious lineups to date. These five artists stand out as essential for ringing in 2026.
FNGRS CRSSD’s PROPER NYE/NYD is almost here, continuing its reign as San Diego’s premier New Year’s celebration. Now entering its fourth edition, PROPER has become synonymous with high-caliber performers. Pairing globally recognized artists with forward-thinking underground talent has become the event’s legacy, with multiple stages illuminating Petco Park in the heart of downtown on December 31 – January 1.
This year’s lineup reflects the breadth of today’s electronic landscape, with melodic, deep house, UK garage, techno, and drum and bass on this year’s map. While ticket prices are premium, the depth and quality of the 2025 slew of talent make it worth every penny, in my opinion.
This is one of the most intricate and impressive PROPER lineups I’ve seen thus far, balancing legacy acts with artists shaping the future. The stacked roster includes headlining sets by Four Tet, Adam Beyer, Sammy Virji, Purple Disco Machine, Disco Lines, Sara Landry, and Gorgon City. While there truly is a niche for everyone to move and groove into the new year, these are my five must-see artists of 2025.
Five Must-See Acts of PROPER NYE/NYD 2025
CRi
As an Anjunadeep mainstay, CRi immediately catches my attention. His sound embodies everything I love about the label as a longtime fan. His music is airy, vibrant, and emotionally charged, blending high-energy basslines with dreamy textures and vocals that always feel euphoric and immersive. CRi’s ability to balance melody and momentum makes his sets incredibly transportive, bringing the euphoric energy from one chapter to the next.
MPH
Since the day I discovered MPH, I have been completely hooked on his infectious take on UK garage. His sound is playful and futuristic while simultaneously feeling nostalgic. Tracks like his remix of deadmau5’s “I’m Not Alone” and the groove-forward “Funk Master” have been on repeat for me.
MPH has been steadily building momentum, and seeing him land on the PROPER lineup feels like perfect timing. His sets pulse with energy. If you’re looking for something bouncy, upbeat, and impossible to resist dancing to, this is one I personally won’t be missing.
Kaskade (Redux)
Kaskade‘s “Redux” sets have become a PROPER staple for a reason. I’ve seen these sets many times over the years, and they’ve somehow never lost their magic. Each performance feels like a fresh take on all the classics. It keeps me coming back to this vibe every single time.
“Redux” is always deep, emotive, and immersive, paired with subtle remix variations that hit right in the feels. It’s familiar without coming across repetitive, and that balance is hard not only to achieve but also to maintain, making Kaskade a true master of his craft. Every “Redux” set feels special, and this one will be no different.
Chase & Status
Drum and bass’ significant US resurgence has been incredible to witness over the last few years, and Chase & Status remain one of the most iconic DnB acts to grace North American soil. As someone who grew up listening to their music on UKF, seeing them finally receive the recognition they deserve here is genuinely exciting.
Witnessing the crowd lose it to “Backbone” is enough to send it straight to their set alone, but their entire performance brings a level of intensity and raw energy that stands out on any lineup. For me, this set feels like a celebration of the variety in the scene that I’ve always deeply admired.
Nora En Pure
Nora En Pure has been at the top of my must-see list for years. Somehow, I’ve never managed to catch her live, and that’s about to change. Her reputation for weaving organic instruments, emotive piano leads, and cinematic melodies into her sets makes her one of the most distinctive artists on the lineup.
