Steve Angello: “Ibiza is a special place - I don’t expect anything less than magic!”

From the Space terrace in the early 2000s to festival main stages around the globe, Steve Angello has been at the forefront of electronic music for over two decades. 

Born in Athens and raised in Stockholm, he first made waves as a solo DJ and producer before founding Size Records and rising to international fame as part of the legendary Swedish House Mafia. Known for global hits, Grammy nominations, and genre-defining live sets, Angello’s influence stretches far beyond the dancefloor.

But for all the stadiums and sold-out shows, one place continues to pull him back: Ibiza. With deep roots on the island and a profound connection to its energy, Angello returns this summer to headline the Ibiza Global Festival on its second day, Saturday, July 5th. 

As he prepares to deliver an epic finale in front of a thousands-strong crowd on S’Arenal beach in San Antonio this weekend, we spoke to him about the special energy of Ibiza, the unforgettable moments the island holds for him, and what excites him creatively right now…

What does it feel like to play at a beach festival in Ibiza - especially with the sea, the sunset, and that unique island energy? 

Amazing! As most of you know, I have a lot of history here on the island and one thing that I haven’t done enough is to play at festivals, so I’m extremely excited! This island is magical, so I don’t expect anything less than magic! 

You've played around the world - what makes performing in Ibiza stand out for you, both professionally and personally? 

It’s a special place! Undoubtedly the Mecca of dance music, there’s nothing that comes close to what this island has! I have a lot of memories from here; I’ve basically grown up here for the past 20+ years, so it’s a place very close to my heart. 

Do you remember your first time playing on the island? What impact did it have on you as an artist

Yes, I do! One of my first shows here was on the Space terrace, it was incredible, very different from today but it has the same energy and excitement. This place is where people who love electronic music gather and it’s been like that since the start, so as a young kid and artist it was always a dream destination.

When preparing for a festival set like this do you plan ahead or prefer to pick spontaneously in the moment as a reaction to the crowd?

I think I’ll set an intro and a final song, everything else will depend on the vibe and energy of the intro!

What inspires and excites you creatively right now - when it comes to creating or performing? 

I love going to places I love, I’ve done things for a long time and I always say, “I’ve been everywhere but I haven’t seen anything.” So my focus now is to enjoy every stop on the road and dive right into the culture.

What's your favourite moment during a set when you know the crowd is with you - that spark between DJ and dancefloor?

Second track in, I know exactly where it’s going and what the crowd is up for! If the energy is there, we’re feeding off each other.

Any new music, collaborations, or projects you’re excited about and can share with us?

Lots of new music, as always! I have a couple new things I’m starting to play out! 

⁠Looking ahead to the rest of the season - or even next year - what are you most excited about on your tour calendar or in the studio?

The B2B with Solomun at Pacha is always a highlight for me! Come join us on August 3rd this year. And for 2026, we have big plans! Stay tuned…

Ibiza Global Festival is taking place on Friday, July 4th and Saturday, July 5th, on S'Arenal beach in San Antonio, from 5:00 pm to 2:00 am each day - free entry! 

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