Groove Cruise, the world’s original and largest floating dance music festival, along with Beatport and LabelRadar, have announced Kindred as the winner of their global DJ/producer contest.
After reviewing nearly 700 submissions from around the world, rising artist Kindred has earned a life-changing opportunity: a performance slot on Groove Cruise Miami 2026, sailing from January 22 to 26, 2026.
The contest invited aspiring DJs and producers worldwide to submit original tracks for review by a panel of judges from Groove Cruise and Beatport. Shortlisted finalists were then tasked with delivering a 30-minute DJ mix, with Kindred ultimately standing out for her creativity, polished execution, clear artistic identity, and live vocal performance that turned her mix into a full-on musical experience.
Kindred shares; “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.”
As the grand prize winner, Kindred will join the official Groove Cruise Miami 2026 lineup, performing alongside some of the biggest names in dance music for thousands of fans aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. Beyond the set, the prize package also includes an official track release on Whet Music, a complimentary stateroom for two (excluding taxes/fees), up to $600 in travel reimbursement, plus swag bags, a Beatport membership, and more.
In total, the grand prize package is valued at over $5,000. Runners-up also received software, streaming memberships, and exclusive Groove Cruise merchandise.
Since 2004, Groove Cruise has built its legacy as the world’s largest premier floating dance music festival, serving as both a bucket-list experience for fans and a career-launching stage for artists. With support from Beatport and LabelRadar, this contest highlights Groove Cruise’s ongoing mission to spotlight undiscovered talent and connect the global dance music community.
Hailing from Maryland, Kindred’s journey in music began with her first notes, long before she could speak. With a passion for R&B and pop, she honed her craft at Berklee College of Music, where she set her sights on a solo career. Eager to deepen her understanding of music theory and production, she furthered her education at IO Music Academy in 2018 and ICON Collective in 2020, enriching her artistry through collaboration and networking with fellow creatives.
Kindred has had the privilege of working with renowned artists such as Adventure Club, Crankdat, Stryer, Avello, Dante Levo, TWSTD ZOO, and Cyrus Gold, among others. Her dynamic sound has graced labels including Ultra, Circus Records, Subsidia, and Rude Service, establishing her as a rising force in the music scene.
