Within the context of America, I think this is a result of there being no promotion of rhythm as a core part of cultural expression. (Generalization incoming) The target audience for this "EDM" wave are kids that didn't grow up in households where dancing was a focus in gatherings. I don't even think it's necessarily that the focus is put on the DJ. Rather, it's that these people dont know how to do anything but watch the DJ. The discussion has happened elsewhere on Hubski where we talk about the millenials (and after) being children that were basically insulated and monitored all the time with no room to express themselves freely. This would probably translate to them not being able to dance nor feeling comfortable with trying to dance.

I've mentioned it before, but I'm of Caribbean heritage. Learning how to dance to Reggae, Soca, and Calypso are huge parts of the cultural experience as a child. Especially in NYC. You could pick any random Caribbean American youth in this city and they'd have stories about dancing at family and neighborhood barbecues. It's something you also see in Hispanic, African, and African American communities as well. Dancing as a form of expression are integral to cultural experience.

Techno and House have a dancing culture around them too, but when they were brought to the surface that aspect was dropped because it wouldn't translate to this new audience. However, if you go back underground, so to speak, you'll find people putting 4 on the floor because that's what you do and the energy you feel during that time is an amazing experience. There's a well respected and new-ish club in Brooklyn called Output that caters to this audience. They have a "no photos" policy and you will see security enforcing it fairly regularly. It's understood that you come to Output to hear good music, dance and interact with the crowd around you. Not pay for VIP, take selfies for the gram, and "pray to the DJ."

That said I can't wait to make the pilgrimage to Detroit next week for Movement.

Is it time we took the focus off the DJ?

YES.

I've only spun a couple of sets at very small venues, but nothing made me happier than to look out and see as many people dancing as possible. It's the most sincere form of flattery you can show a DJ.

If a DJ sees you watching them, what do you want them to do? A trick? They're just twisting nobs and crossing faders, like every other DJ. Most of the big acts are just pretending anyway (that's Justice... unplugged), they've got a pre-recorded set. Mixing live (note: mixing live well) is hard, especially under that kind of pressure.

Maybe one problem is that big shows are, like... things, now, you know? People flock to "the scene".

Admittedly, I only really dance when other people are, and it usually takes a couple of beers beforehand. I'm nowhere near immune to social pressures.

Related problem: Recently went to a little show (no one you know DJ'd, trust me) with a friend of mine from my first couple of college years. They were on their social media almost the entire time, posting to instagram, facebook, twitter, face-timing their S.O., etc. Only maybe 35% of the time did they actually focus on the moment.

Edit: I would like to add that it can be a little different when there are actual turntables involved. I was born into the generation that typically employs Ableton, Traktor, or other digital means of mixing tracks together, and unless you're on stage or behind the DJ, there's not really anything to see. Watching someone work a pair of turntables can be a little more interesting, especially if they've got "dat scratch" goin' on. Anyway, if you're in front of the DJ, and they're elevated up above the audience, there's nothing to see... so dance!