Armin van Buuren is a name synonymous with an unbridled and unwavering love for music. As a born perfectionist, he strives to remain at the forefront of the music scene he has been instrumental in shaping. As the flag-bearer of the trance movement, he stands as one of the most influential figures in the global electronic dance music (EDM) community. Despite his extraordinary life as one of the world's most renowned DJs, Armin remains grounded, maintaining a down-to-earth demeanor. Whether he is creating music in his studio or jetting off to his next high-end club or festival performance across the globe, Armin van Buuren is a constant force in motion.
Armin defines his connection to music in powerful terms: "It's not just love for music, it's my passion. It goes beyond liking, and beyond a hobby. It's about a way of living. Music is essential to my life."
For over two decades, this Grammy-nominated Dutch artist has lived in the rhythm of his own international success. His remarkable achievement of securing the top spot in the prestigious DJ Mag Top 100 DJs poll on five occasions is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his fans, his boundless creativity in the studio, the persistence with which he hosts his weekly radio show 'A State of Trance,' and the electrifying energy he delivers to his live audiences. Armin's ability to withstand the immense pressures that come with being one of the world's most popular DJs lies in his unwavering focus on the music itself.
The Genesis of a Musical Icon
Born in Leiden, the Netherlands, on December 25, 1976, to a family deeply connected to music, Armin's passion for music was kindled from an early age. He devoted all his earnings from his paper route to buying records, a clear sign of his unwavering commitment. His curiosity in technology was ignited when his mother won a computer when he was just ten years old. "So as a little nerdy kid, I was writing my own basic programs and learned about technology from there." Armin's journey evolved from crafting mixtapes for friends to producing high-end mixes as he began experimenting with various sequences on his computer under the guidance of his uncle. "I was so amazed by what I saw him doing on the computer that I got addicted to creating music right there and then!"
Armin's journey into dance music was instantaneous and transformative. He was captivated by its rebellious sound, a stark departure from the 'beautiful' songs of earlier years. Armin cites electronic pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre as a major influence, alongside Dutch producer Ben Liebrand, who later mentored him in the art of mixing and production.
In his early days, Armin saw wisdom in having a backup plan, and thus, he pursued a law degree. Balancing his studies with an increasingly busy schedule, he found himself stretching out the final year of his course. His path to fame involved a plethora of productions, remixes, and electrifying performances in front of packed clubs every weekend. It took him three years to graduate, but his tenacity paid off in the end.
Despite holding a Master's degree in Law, Armin's life has consistently revolved around one central element: music. As he eloquently puts it, "I see it as my responsibility to promote trance as a genre, and I want to support it in every way I can. Music should connect us. As long as the music keeps evolving like it is, I will continue, and I don't see any reason to slow down." Armin van Buuren, the maestro of music, continues to be a driving force, uniting fans and evolving the EDM genre with every beat.
The Maestro of Music: Armin van Buuren's Journey as a DJ and Radio Host
Armin van Buuren, an icon in the electronic music scene, transcends mere travel hours to devote his undivided attention to the music, the crowd, and the magical fusion of the two as he takes his place behind the DJ booth. The moment his first record fills the air with captivating beats, the room ignites, and the chants of the crowd resonate. An Armin van Buuren set is nothing short of a mesmerizing experience, where music becomes a binding force that connects you with the people around you. With seamless mixing and a unique sound, Armin has carved a distinctive niche, making his DJ sets truly exceptional. He brings millions together, not only through his relentless touring but also through his 'Armin Only' and 'A State of Trance' world tours.
Armin's life as a DJ has inspired countless individuals, both on a personal and professional level. In 2009, Dutch author Coen Bom published 'Eén op één' / 'Armin Only,' a chronicle of Armin's life on the road, shedding light on the chaotic life of this Dutch artist while exploring the secret behind his incredible success. In October 2012, the official documentary 'A Year With Armin van Buuren' was released, offering an exclusive look behind the scenes during a pivotal year in Armin's life. Armin's journey as a superstar DJ continues to inspire many.
Armin has graced the stages of some of the world's most significant festivals, clubs, events, and shows. A memorable moment in his career was his performance for the newly crowned King and Queen of the Netherlands in 2013, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima. Alongside the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and in front of a 15,000-strong crowd, Armin delivered a stunning performance, including 'The Bolero' and an orchestral rendition of the title track from his 'Intense' album. During the 'Koningsvaart,' a cultural boat trip through Amsterdam, the King and Queen joined Armin on stage, dancing alongside him in an unexpected and unforgettable moment.
Another notable highlight came in July 2010, when Armin performed at the Museumplein in Amsterdam during the ceremonial honoring of the Dutch national soccer team. The national team may have lost in the FIFA World Cup final, but they celebrated like champions, with a crowd of 200,000 revelers.
In 2013, Armin reached a significant milestone by becoming the first solo dance artist to perform at Madison Square Garden, where he played to a sold-out audience, marking a groundbreaking achievement in his career.
Following the 2013 summer season, Armin embarked on a new 'Armin Only' world tour, inspired by his 'Intense' album. In collaboration with theatre director Jos Thie, this tour spanned over 33 dates in cities such as Kiev, Mumbai, Saint-Petersburg, Helsinki, New York, Toronto, Mexico City, Sydney, Johannesburg, and more. With this unique show format, Armin presented an exclusive experience that unfolded the various layers of his 'Intense' album. In total, over 500,000 fans attended, spanning five continents. The 'Armin Only' tour also produced a 'Road Movie' series that provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the tour.
In 2014, Armin commenced a successful weekly residency at the renowned Ushuaïa Beach Hotel in Ibiza, performing every Thursday night alongside top DJs from the Armada Music roster. Following the residency, he released a compilation titled 'A State of Trance at Ushuaïa Ibiza' to commemorate the season.
As a testament to the success of the residency, Armin returned to the Ushuaïa Beach Hotel a year later for another 'A State Of Trance at Ushuaïa, Ibiza' summer. His performances in the center of the Ushuaïa pool ignited the passion and enthusiasm of his fans. This led to the release of the second volume of his Ushuaïa compilation series, 'A State Of Trance at Ushuaïa, Ibiza 2015.'
In January 2016, Armin van Buuren launched his 'Armin Only Embrace' world tour, starting in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and later expanding to various cities, including Gdansk, Dubai, Sofia, Minsk, Mexico City, and more.
In 2017, Armin celebrated his twenty-year anniversary as an artist with two sold-out shows at the Amsterdam ArenA. These monumental performances brought together tens of thousands of devoted fans, creating a lasting memory to cherish.
During the summer of 2017, Armin's highly anticipated residency took him back to the White Isle for a series of Wednesday night shows at Hï Ibiza, one of the island's hottest clubs. Together with his friends Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, fellow Dutchmen, and fellow DJs, Armin van Buuren continued to captivate crowds, delivering unforgettable moments throughout the summer.
Armin van Buuren: The Radio Host
Armin's journey into radio began as an obsession and evolved into a weekly highlight, captivating over 41 million listeners worldwide. He broadcasts to more than 100 FM stations, connecting with fans in over 84 countries. In June 2001, Armin van Buuren presented the inaugural episode of 'A State of Trance.' Fourteen years later, the show continues, where Armin shares the latest and greatest tunes of the moment and offers an interactive platform for fans to discover new music. Notable segments of the show include the 'Tune of the Week,' 'Progressive Pick,' 'Service For Dreamers,' and the 'Future Favorite,' determined through an online voting poll.
Marking every significant milestone, Armin celebrated the 650th episode of 'A State of Trance' with an extensive world tour in early 2014, called 'New Horizons.' This tour visited cities such as Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Almaty, Utrecht, Santiago, Buenos Aires, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Miami. It unfolded over eight weeks, spanning January, February, and March 2014 and included live broadcasts on the 'A State of Trance' website.
In extension of the success of 'A State of Trance,' Armin introduced the 'A State of Trance Festival' tour in 2015, commemorating the 700th episode of the radio show. Armin became the first DJ to host his own festival, marking the largest trance festival tour in history. The tour visited Utrecht, Buenos Aires, Ultra Music Festival in Miami, Sydney, Melbourne, Mexico, and other destinations worldwide. Notably, the 700th episode of 'A State of Trance' featured an entirely fan-created show, where fans had the opportunity to introduce their favorite trance tracks on air. Fans submitted voice recordings introducing their favorite tracks, which were used to create an entirely fan-made episode, a groundbreaking achievement in the world of dance radio.
After the success of the 'A State of Trance' world tours, Armin launched 'A State of Trance 800,' announced during an episode of his radio show. The first 'A State of Trance 800' event took place in February 2017 at the Jaarbeurs in Utrecht, the Netherlands, hinting at future full-blown 'A State of Trance 800' events.
Looking back on the 'A State of Trance' world tours, Armin reflects, "I'm deeply honored by all the positive things that are happening for the show and for the sound in general. I've always said ASOT is not only a show for, but also a show by the fans. The show wouldn't be where it is without the fans, so it feels amazing to see so many people celebrating along. It's crazy to see groups of fans going crazy to the same music that we're playing on the other side of the world. People wearing banners, flags, and making their own private party. This is what I meant with 'turning the world into a dance floor.'"
Each year, listeners of the show have the chance to vote for their favorite tracks, resulting in the 'A State of Trance Top 20.' These tracks are then included in the 'A State of Trance Year Mix,' released at the end of December. Armin spends weeks meticulously mixing and editing these tracks, creating a two-hour mega mix featuring over a hundred tunes and countless memories. This series has sold several hundred thousand copies to date, with a successful run of over a decade. Another series Armin initiated in connection with the radio show is 'A State of Trance Classics,' dedicated to commemorating the early days of dance music. Notably, in late 2014, Armin's ASOT Year Mix series achieved 4x certified Platinum.
In addition to the radio show, Armin established the 'A State of Trance Podcast,' which offers a selection from the previous radio show episode, ensuring that listeners never miss any highlights. Every Sunday, Armin hosts a 24-hour radio day called 'A State of Sundays' on Sirius XM Satellite Radio, one of the largest radio stations in the United States. 'A State of Sundays' presents not only the A State of Trance shows but also introduces listeners to sets and radio shows by other prominent DJs and talented artists.
In 2017, Armin van Buuren unveiled a brand-new radio studio at the Armada Music headquarters in Amsterdam, from which the 'A State of Trance' episodes are broadcast live. This venture marks the evolution of Armin's dedication to providing listeners with the very best in trance music, and it represents yet another remarkable chapter in his ongoing journey as a pioneer in the world of electronic dance music.
When he's not on tour or enjoying quality time with his children, Fenna and Remy, Armin van Buuren immerses himself in the studio, breathing life into his famous quote: "Don't be a prisoner of your own style." Here, he embarks on musical explorations that push the boundaries of electronic dance music (EDM), both through his original compositions and remixes. Some of his most cherished works, including tracks like 'Communication,' 'Burned With Desire,' 'Blue Fear,' 'Shivers,' and 'Yet Another Day,' have cemented their status as timeless classics, enduring the test of time.
Armin van Buuren's discography includes a series of successful albums, such as '76' (2003), 'Shivers' (2005), 'Imagine' (2008), 'Mirage' (2010), 'Intense' (2013), and 'Embrace' (2015). 'Intense' earned a nomination for the Dutch Edison Pop Award for 'Best Dance Album.' His follow-up to the 'Mirage' album featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Israeli violinist Miri Ben-Ari, Australian duo NERVO, and vocalists like Trevor Guthrie, Emma Hewitt, Laura Jansen, Fiora, and more. The album's first single, 'This Is What It Feels Like' featuring Trevor Guthrie, was nominated for a Grammy award for 'Best Dance Recording' and received a nomination for a Canadian Juno Award. The track achieved worldwide acclaim, securing A-list rotation on radio stations globally and obtaining silver, gold, platinum, and double platinum certifications in countries such as Canada, the Netherlands, the UK, Australia, and Italy. Its music video has amassed over 64 million views to date.
Armin continued to delight his fans with fresh releases, such as the 'Armin van Buuren presents. Rising Star' record 'Safe Inside You' featuring Betsie Larkin, an official remix of the 'Game Of Thrones Theme,' and a collaboration with electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre on 'Stardust.' On September 3rd, 2015, during his 'A State of Trance' radio show, he unveiled the name of his forthcoming artist album.
'Embrace' emerged as Armin's sixth full-length artist album on October 29th. The album was brimming with remarkable collaborations, featuring artists such as Mr. Probz ('Another You'), Hardwell ('Off The Hook'), Cimo Fränkel ('Strong Ones'), world-famous Dutch Jazz trumpeter Eric Vloeimans ('Embrace'), award-winning Dutch band Kensington ('Heading Up High'), U.K. singer-songwriter BullySongs ('Freefall' and 'Caught In The Slipstream'), and fellow Grammy nominee Gavin DeGraw ('Looking For Your Name'). Commenting on the stylistic diversity of 'Embrace,' Armin stated, "Each of the instruments you see on the album cover – which was shot by Anton Corbijn – was an instrument actually used on the album! I thought it would be a real challenge to myself to try to create dance music using all of these disparate instruments. I really wanted to push myself past my comfort zone and create something very exciting not just for me, but for all the lovers of music out there. I hope you enjoy it." Judging by the ecstatic reaction of audiences whenever Armin plays his album cuts onstage, he has, once again, succeeded.
In August 2016, Armin van Buuren released his 'Old Skool' mini album, inspired by the track 'Old Skool' from the 'Embrace' album. This mini album featured revamped renditions of timeless classics such as Human Resource's 'Dominator,' The Ultimate Seduction's 'The Ultimate Seduction,' Speedy J's 'Pull Over,' and more. With this release, Armin took his fans back to the roots of dance music, delivering a piece of electronic music history.
In recent times, Armin has ventured out of his comfort zone, pursuing whatever inspires him the most, which has resulted in a string of successful releases. Notably, he kicked off 2017 with three summer-flavored hits: 'I Need You' (with Garibay featuring Olaf Blackwood), 'Sunny Days' (featuring Josh Cumbee), and 'You Are' (with Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano), which served as the anthem for their joint summer residency at Hï Ibiza. These releases underline Armin's versatility and open-mindedness, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the electronic dance music scene.
When he's not on tour or enjoying quality time with his children, Fenna and Remy, Armin van Buuren immerses himself in the studio, breathing life into his famous quote: "Don't be a prisoner of your own style." Here, he embarks on musical explorations that push the boundaries of electronic dance music (EDM), both through his original compositions and remixes. Some of his most cherished works, including tracks like 'Communication,' 'Burned With Desire,' 'Blue Fear,' 'Shivers,' and 'Yet Another Day,' have cemented their status as timeless classics, enduring the test of time.
Armin van Buuren's discography includes a series of successful albums, such as '76' (2003), 'Shivers' (2005), 'Imagine' (2008), 'Mirage' (2010), 'Intense' (2013), and 'Embrace' (2015). 'Intense' earned a nomination for the Dutch Edison Pop Award for 'Best Dance Album.' His follow-up to the 'Mirage' album featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Israeli violinist Miri Ben-Ari, Australian duo NERVO, and vocalists like Trevor Guthrie, Emma Hewitt, Laura Jansen, Fiora, and more. The album's first single, 'This Is What It Feels Like' featuring Trevor Guthrie, was nominated for a Grammy award for 'Best Dance Recording' and received a nomination for a Canadian Juno Award. The track achieved worldwide acclaim, securing A-list rotation on radio stations globally and obtaining silver, gold, platinum, and double platinum certifications in countries such as Canada, the Netherlands, the UK, Australia, and Italy. Its music video has amassed over 64 million views to date.
Armin continued to delight his fans with fresh releases, such as the 'Armin van Buuren presents. Rising Star' record 'Safe Inside You' featuring Betsie Larkin, an official remix of the 'Game Of Thrones Theme,' and a collaboration with electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre on 'Stardust.' On September 3rd, 2015, during his 'A State of Trance' radio show, he unveiled the name of his forthcoming artist album.
'Embrace' emerged as Armin's sixth full-length artist album on October 29th. The album was brimming with remarkable collaborations, featuring artists such as Mr. Probz ('Another You'), Hardwell ('Off The Hook'), Cimo Fränkel ('Strong Ones'), world-famous Dutch Jazz trumpeter Eric Vloeimans ('Embrace'), award-winning Dutch band Kensington ('Heading Up High'), U.K. singer-songwriter BullySongs ('Freefall' and 'Caught In The Slipstream'), and fellow Grammy nominee Gavin DeGraw ('Looking For Your Name'). Commenting on the stylistic diversity of 'Embrace,' Armin stated, "Each of the instruments you see on the album cover – which was shot by Anton Corbijn – was an instrument actually used on the album! I thought it would be a real challenge to myself to try to create dance music using all of these disparate instruments. I really wanted to push myself past my comfort zone and create something very exciting not just for me, but for all the lovers of music out there. I hope you enjoy it." Judging by the ecstatic reaction of audiences whenever Armin plays his album cuts onstage, he has, once again, succeeded.
In August 2016, Armin van Buuren released his 'Old Skool' mini album, inspired by the track 'Old Skool' from the 'Embrace' album. This mini album featured revamped renditions of timeless classics such as Human Resource's 'Dominator,' The Ultimate Seduction's 'The Ultimate Seduction,' Speedy J's 'Pull Over,' and more. With this release, Armin took his fans back to the roots of dance music, delivering a piece of electronic music history.
In recent times, Armin has ventured out of his comfort zone, pursuing whatever inspires him the most, which has resulted in a string of successful releases. Notably, he kicked off 2017 with three summer-flavored hits: 'I Need You' (with Garibay featuring Olaf Blackwood), 'Sunny Days' (featuring Josh Cumbee), and 'You Are' (with Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano), which served as the anthem for their joint summer residency at Hï Ibiza. These releases underline Armin's versatility and open-mindedness, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the electronic dance music scene.
THE LABEL OWNER
In 2003, the idea of establishing a record label, Armada Music, took shape. Alongside Maykel Piron and David Lewis, Armin laid the groundwork for one of the most successful record labels in the world. Armada Music, which has earned the title of 'Best Global Record Label' for five consecutive years, serves as the home to over 40 sub-labels and features productions by some of the industry's biggest names and emerging talents. Armin's own labels, 'Armind,' 'A State of Trance,' and 'Who's Afraid Of 138?!,' have found their sanctuary at Armada Music, along with his 'A State of Trance' compilation series and artist albums.
With sub-labels such as Armada Trice, Armada Deep, Armada Captivating, and The Bearded Man as the cornerstones of the record label, Armada Music has expanded into a vast array of styles and genres. Hits like Lost Frequencies' 'Are You With Me' and 'Reality' (featuring Janieck Devy) are prime examples of the label's widespread success.
Over the course of its fourteen-year journey, Armada Music has become one of the most diverse record labels in electronic music. It now boasts a workforce of over eighty employees who have contributed to the label's substantial growth. In 2017, Mixmag ranked Armada Music as the #7 "Label Of The Decade."
Despite his demanding and action-packed schedule, Armin continues to serve as the A&R (Artists and Repertoire) head for the Armind, Who's Afraid Of 138?!, and A State of Trance labels, ensuring that the label maintains its reputation as a thriving hub for electronic dance music.
