Kindred Takes Home Grand Prize in Groove Cruise x LabelRadar Global DJ/Producer Contest

Kindred was named the winner of Groove Cruise and LabelRader’s DJ/producer contest for the floating festival’s upcoming sailing in 2026 and will perform on board!

Groove Cruise Miami is coming up quickly on the horizon, and the excitement from GCFAM is continuing to build by the week. Those setting sail aren’t the only ones jumping for joy, either, as rising artist Kindred is also bubbling with excitement. Why? This DJ and producer, who has laid claim to the “sad girl bass music” spectrum of the scene, took home the grand prize in the Groove Cruise x LabelRadar Global DJ/Producer Contest.

Kindred was selected from a pool of nearly 700 submissions from artists around the globe. Her original track caught the attention of the panel of judges from Groove Cruise and Beatport, and after delivering a 30-minute mix, they were won over by her creativity, execution, artistic identity, and her live vocal performance, which acted like a cherry on top.

I am beyond grateful for this incredible opportunity! It’s my very first Groove Cruise, and the fact that I get to perform on it makes it even more special. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I can’t wait to experience this journey at sea with all of you beautiful people.
Kindred

With this win, Kindred will get a slot to perform on the 2026 edition of Groove Cruise Miami, which sets sail from January 22 to 26. That’s not all that she took home with the grand prize, as she also will get an official track release on Whet Music, a complimentary stateroom for two on the sailing, up to $600 travel reimbursement, a Beatport membership, swag bags, and more.

Kindred hails from Maryland and has been rising through the ranks of the scene in recent years. She enhanced her techniques at IO Music Academy and ICON Collective, has released music on labels such as Subsidia and Circus Records, and has taken the stage at festivals like Ubbi Dubbi and nightclubs ranging from Exchange LA to Echostage.

Follow Kindred on Instagram to dive deeper into her artistic journey and stay tuned for the schedule to drop to find out when she will be performing during Groove Cruise Miami 2026!