Armin van Buuren

About

The sound

Armin van Buuren is a Dutch DJ, producer and broadcaster whose career spans trance records, radio and artist development. Born in Leiden, he became interested in electronic music through Jean-Michel Jarre and developed his production skills with encouragement from Dutch mixer Ben Liebrand. He combined his early music career with law studies before completing his degree. In June 2001 he launched A State of Trance, the radio programme that became a central platform for his selections and new trance releases. Two years later he co-founded Armada Music with Maykel Piron and David Lewis. His albums trace a broad catalogue, from 76 and Shivers through Imagine, Mirage, Intense and Embrace. This Is What It Feels Like, recorded with Trevor Guthrie, earned a Grammy nomination and connected his production work with a wider pop audience. Alongside his own name, he has released music as Rising Star and developed the Armind and A State of Trance imprints. His later discography includes the 2025 releases Breathe and Piano.