The Highs, the Lows, and the Responsibility: Marlon Hoffstadt Sparks a Conversation on Safer Rave Culture

“As much as I love you all, and as sick as it is to play for you guys, from here it looks fucking rowdy down there”, said Marlon Hoffstadt, also known as DJ Daddy Trance, as he stopped his set at Australia’s Wildlands Festival. While the audience initially cheered at his words, Hoffstadt quickly clarified, “This is not a compliment, so everyone drink some water, look out for each other, and chill a fucking bit.”

The Berlin-based artist later shared his thoughts on Instagram, posting a story that, among other things, said, “I know going crazy and also doing drugs is fun and shit – I’ve been there, done that. But I think to create a safer space on the dancefloor, there’s like a few things that need to exist, and one of them is also quite safe use of drugs and to watch out for each other.”

“I don’t know… Maybe it’s time to educate yourself on how much you can do, what these drugs do to you, or like, what you can do when a friend goes bad or something” he continued, explaining that he has witnessed countless people, especially younger attendees, passing out in the crowd during his performances.

Hoffstadt’s candid statement underscores a persistent issue in the world of electronic music events: drug-related incidents and the lack of education around safe substance use. The intersection of drug culture and music festivals has been a global concern for years, with incidents ranging from overdoses to fatalities. In 2024 alone, reports of drug-related emergencies surged, reigniting discussions about harm reduction measures and the responsibilities of organizers, artists, and attendees alike.

By choosing to pause his set and address the issue on Instagram, Hoffstadt not only brought much-needed attention to the problem but also raised important questions about the role of artists in fostering safer environments. While DJs and performers are primarily there to entertain, moments like these highlight their influence beyond the decks. Hoffstadt demonstrated integrity and responsibility, sending a clear message: rave, music event, and festival culture should prioritize connection and collective care over reckless excess.

Similarly, festival organizers play a crucial role in mitigating risks. Initiatives like on-site drug testing, chill-out zones, and educational campaigns have long been staples at events such as Boom Festival in Portugal, Shambhala Music Festival in Canada, or most big festivals in the Netherlands where leading event organizers have implemented these measures for years. These proactive approaches have consistently proven effective in saving lives.

Let’s face it – whether someone supports or opposes drug use at festivals, it’s a reality that isn’t going away, no matter how many restrictions are imposed by law enforcement or event organizers. While rules around bringing and using drugs at festivals aim to control the situation, they often fall short when it comes to reducing harm. People determined to use substances will always find a way, making harm reduction strategies all the more essential.

The philosophy of harm reduction focuses on minimizing the negative effects of drug use without necessarily condoning it. Organizations like DanceSafe and The Loop have been at the forefront of this movement, providing resources such as drug-checking services and workshops on recognizing and responding to overdoses.

For attendees, understanding the risks associated with using various substances – especially when purchased from unknown sources – is crucial. For instance, mixing stimulants like MDMA with alcohol or other substances can lead to dehydration, overheating, or even heart failure. Drugs like ketamine require precise dosing to avoid “k-holes,” and an incorrect dose of any substance can result in severe, irreversible consequences for both body and mind. Simple steps, like staying hydrated, taking breaks, and looking out for one another, can significantly enhance safety and create a more secure experience for everyone.

Shifting rave culture requires a collective effort – not just from artists and organizers, but also from attendees who must take responsibility for their actions, look out for their friends, and extend a hand to strangers who may need help. For many, raves, music events, and festivals represent the kind of world that feels like the way the “real” world should be but often isn’t. It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep it that way.

Because let’s be honest – what we all truly want, at the end of the day, is to leave the festival grounds with sadness in our hearts only because an incredible time filled with amazing music, people, and experiences has come to an end. Not with sadness over how chasing a high ruined the experience for ourselves and others. Mistakes can however happen to the best of us, and when they do, it’s vital that the right people and procedures are in place to prevent them from becoming tragedies.