Markus Schulz - Two Tribes Festival
In a powerful fusion of legacy and future, Melbourne will witness a once-in-a-generation celebration as the iconic Two Tribes Festival marks its 25th anniversary with a special reunion event that will coincide with the launch of a brand new era: Tribes Festival 2025. Taking place on Melbourne Cup Eve, “25 Years Deep: The Underground Never Dies” promises an electrifying night of music featuring an all-star lineup of both international and local electronic music heavyweights across two massive stages. We caught up with headliner Markus Schulz to talk all things Tribes and find out what makes Australian audiences special.
You have been announced as one of the headliners for the Tribes Festival, happening in Melbourne this November. Are you excited to be heading to Australia for this new era of the original Two Tribes Festival?
Absolutely. Australia has always had a very special place in my heart, and to be part of this new era of such a legendary festival brand is an honor. There’s a rich history with Two Tribes, and now with Tribes stepping into that space, it feels like the start of something fresh while still paying respect to what came before. I can’t wait to share the experience with everyone.
How do you prepare yourself for a festival event like Tribes? Do you have different preparations compared to a club or concert set?
Festivals have their own unique energy. With a club set, I have the luxury of time to take the crowd on a long journey, but festivals are about creating something powerful and memorable in a shorter window. My preparation involves finding that balance between showcasing new material and weaving in those moments that connect instantly with a big crowd. It’s about building intensity quickly, giving people that release, and leaving them with goosebumps.
“Festivals are about unity, and my goal is to create something people will remember long after the night is over. ”
What can fans expect from your upcoming performances at the Tribes Festival?
I want to give fans a proper Markus Schulz experience, music that’s emotional, driving, and immersive. You’ll hear some of my newest productions, some special Dakota moments, and of course tributes to the tracks that have carried me and my fans through the years. Festivals are about unity, and my goal is to create something people will remember long after the night is over.
What’s the one song from your back catalogue that you always slip into a festival set?
That would have to be ‘The New World’. It has this timeless quality about it, and the connection with fans is so strong that I can’t imagine playing a festival without it. It’s one of those tracks that instantly bonds us together in that moment. I am playing a new remix of it from Matt Fax that will be out at the end of October.
“The passion in Australia is unmatched. The fans are so well educated musically, they know the classics, they know the deeper cuts, and they’re also eager for fresh, forward-thinking sounds. ”
What makes Australian shows different to overseas events?
The passion in Australia is unmatched. The fans are so well educated musically, they know the classics, they know the deeper cuts, and they’re also eager for fresh, forward-thinking sounds. That kind of energy pushes me as a DJ to give even more on stage. There’s a real family atmosphere at Australian shows, which makes every visit feel very personal.
When you hear the word festival, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind?
Community. A festival is a place where thousands of people come together for the same reason; to lose themselves in the music and share something bigger than themselves. It’s about connection, escape, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
“Tribes is going to be a special night - let’s create something together that we’ll remember forever.”
Will you be doing any of the tourist things while you’re here?
To be honest, I don’t get to do much of the tourist side when I’m on the road. My focus is always on preparing for the set, catching up on rest, and making sure I give my very best when I hit the stage. Australia is such a beautiful country, though, so just being here is a gift in itself.
Do you have a message for the punters heading to Tribes?
I want to thank you all for welcoming me back to Australia with such open arms. Tribes is going to be a special night - let’s create something together that we’ll remember forever. Come with an open heart, open mind, and be ready to get lost in the music with me.
Tickets for Tribes Festival are on sale now via Oztix
Interview by Michelle Symes
August 2025
