Armin van Buuren: The Number 1 Position Is Still Undefeated In The Trance Music Industry Ahead Of The 2025 DJ Awards

As anticipation builds in the electronic music world ahead of the DJ Awards—one of the most respected honors in the industry—attention turns once again to a true luminary of trance music: Armin van Buuren. While the results of the award remain undisclosed, his extensive list of accolades and his remarkable accomplishments in 2025 reaffirm why he continues to be a defining force in the global electronic music scene.

From his early days shaping the sound of trance to his recent groundbreaking projects, Armin continues to push boundaries and inspire millions worldwide. His relentless innovation and dedication not only define his career but also ensure his lasting influence within the ever-evolving electronic music scene.

The Accolades That Define a Legend

Long before the upcoming award announcement, Armin van Buuren has amassed an impressive array of prestigious honors that showcase his enduring influence:

• Five-time No.1 DJ in the World according to the famed DJ Mag Top 100 DJs poll (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2012)—a record unmatched in the history of the magazine.

• Recipient of multiple International Dance Music Awards (IDMAs) and Grammy nominations, cementing his status not just as a fan favorite but also as an artist respected by industry peers.

• Awarded for his contributions to trance at events like the Trance Awards and the DJ Awards themselves, recognizing both his production genius and his unforgettable live performances.

These milestones establish Armin as not just a leading figure in trance but one of electronic dance music’s most influential ambassadors globally.

Breaking Ground in 2025: A Year of Creativity and Connection

The year 2025 has been particularly prolific for Armin, marked by a string of high-profile releases, festival performances, and innovations that have resonated deeply within the EDM community.

1. Breathe — A Groundbreaking Double Album

In early 2025, Armin van Buuren released his ambitious two-part album project titled Breathe (Breathe In and Breathe Out), comprising a staggering 51 tracks. This project represents a bold artistic evolution, pushing beyond pure trance into territories that blend rock, progressive house, and ambient soundscapes.

Collaborating with legends like David Guetta, Bon Jovi, Pendulum, and Moby, Armin showcased his willingness to experiment and expand his musical horizons, earning widespread acclaim for this innovative body of work. Breathe is not just an album—it’s an immersive experience that speaks to the diversity of Armin’s talents and his openness to creative evolution.

2. A State of Trance 2025 — The Soundtrack of a Generation

Continuing his legacy of curating trance music, Armin released A State of Trance 2025, his 22nd mix album and a celebration of the genre’s vitality. Spanning 43 tracks across three distinct sections—’On the Beach’, ‘In the Club’, and ‘Who’s Afraid of 138?!’—the album blends established trance anthems with fresh talent.

Featuring collaborations with prominent artists such as Claptone, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Ferry Corsten, and Rob Swire, this album is a testament to Armin’s role as a tastemaker and a champion for both the genre’s roots and its future.

3. A State of Trance Ibiza 2025 — Capturing the Magic of Live Performance

Armin’s residency at Ushuaïa Ibiza continued to draw crowds with electrifying performances that encapsulate the spirit of Ibiza’s legendary nightlife. His 42-track mix album from this residency captures the energy and emotional resonance of his extended six-hour opening night set, including his latest single, “Everything I Wanted”, featuring vocalist Malou.

The residency not only solidifies his status as a headline act on the world’s most iconic dance floors but also reflects his dedication to creating unforgettable, immersive experiences for his fans.

Festival Highlights: Dominating the Global Stage

2025 saw Armin van Buuren light up some of the world’s biggest electronic music festivals:

• Ultra Music Festival Miami: Celebrating Ultra’s 25th anniversary, Armin’s multiple sets were standout moments, including the debut of fresh remixes like 50 Cent’s “In Da Club” and Billie Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted”. His surprise collaboration with Martin Garrix further fueled excitement and showcased his ability to bridge generations and styles.

• Ushuaïa Ibiza Residency: Beyond album releases, his live shows at Ushuaïa remain a cultural pillar of the Ibiza season, known for their dynamic energy, flawless mixing, and emotional depth.

Beyond Music: Advocacy and Innovation

Armin van Buuren’s impact extends well beyond his productions and performances:

• Mental Health Advocacy: After confronting personal challenges related to burnout, Armin openly embraced sobriety, meditation, and mindfulness—practices he credits with revitalizing his creativity and well-being. His candid discussions on mental health have inspired many within the demanding electronic music industry to prioritize self-care.

• Innovative Live Experiences: Armin has pushed the boundaries of live DJ performances, introducing “face-to-face” sets and interactive festival formats that bring audiences closer to the artistry and emotion of trance music.

Why Armin van Buuren Remains a Strong Contender for the DJ Award

While the official results of this year’s DJ Award for trance music have yet to be announced, the evidence of Armin van Buuren’s sustained excellence is overwhelming. His unmatched discography, continuous innovation, and unwavering connection with fans make him a formidable candidate.

His ability to balance tradition with innovation, to nurture new talent while remaining a global headliner, and to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of EDM underscores his legendary status.

Conclusion: Celebrating a Living Legend

As we await the outcome of this year’s DJ Award, the story of Armin van Buuren is one of extraordinary dedication, creativity, and impact. His journey—from a young Dutch producer experimenting with sounds to a globally celebrated icon—is marked by records, awards, and an inspiring legacy that continues to evolve.

Whether or not he takes home the award this time, Armin’s influence on trance music and the broader EDM scene is indisputable. His work in 2025 alone has proven that he is not just part of the history of electronic music, but very much a force shaping its future.

If you are passionate about trance or electronic music, now is the perfect moment to revisit Armin’s latest releases, explore the vibrant world of A State of Trance, and appreciate the artistry that keeps millions around the world dancing and dreaming.