Armin van Buuren’s iconic songs since they were first written, even longtime fans may not remember them all
In the vast and ever-evolving world of electronic dance music (EDM), few figures have had the cultural, emotional, and technical impact that Armin van Buuren has sustained across more than two decades. While many DJs have risen and faded with the tides of festival trends and streaming algorithms, Armin has done something far rarer: he has endured, adapted, and continuously redefined the landscape of trance and EDM as both an architect and a storyteller.
His legacy is not built on a single hit or moment, but on a catalogue of tracks that have shaped genres, broken barriers, and influenced an entire generation of producers and fans. These songs aren’t merely successful—they are foundational, helping to define the sound and soul of modern EDM.
“Blue Fear” (1997): The Genesis of Melodic Trance
Armin’s debut single, “Blue Fear,” heralded the arrival of a new melodic sensibility within trance music. Released in the late 90s when EDM was diversifying, the track’s signature atmospheric synths and emotionally charged progression captured the essence of what would become classic trance.
Its impact transcended just a club hit; “Blue Fear” laid the foundation for Armin’s career and signaled a shift toward more melodic, euphoric compositions in EDM. This track inspired a generation of producers to explore emotional resonance as a core element in dance music, emphasizing melody over sheer rhythmic intensity.
“Communication” (1999): Defining the Trance Anthem
Two years later, “Communication” emerged as a trance anthem, combining hypnotic arpeggios with driving beats. The track showcased Armin’s growing production sophistication and helped establish a blueprint for trance that emphasized narrative flow and melodic hooks.
The widespread acclaim of “Communication” reinforced trance music’s identity within the EDM ecosystem. It demonstrated how melodic themes could anchor a track, allowing DJs to craft dynamic sets that balanced energy with emotion. This song remains a reference point for trance producers aiming to create timeless dancefloor classics.
“Shivers” feat. Susana (2005): The Emotional Vocal Masterpiece
“Shivers” represents a pivotal moment in Armin’s catalog where he integrated heartfelt vocals into his euphoric trance productions. Featuring Susana’s haunting voice, the track evokes deep emotionality, transforming the trance experience into a storytelling medium.
This song was instrumental in popularizing vocal trance, a subgenre that marries lyrical expression with electronic soundscapes. “Shivers” broadened trance’s appeal, attracting listeners who connected with the music on an emotional level. It also paved the way for vocal collaborations to become central to EDM’s artistic evolution.
“In and Out of Love” feat. Sharon den Adel (2008): Breaking Barriers
With “In and Out of Love,” Armin van Buuren crossed a major threshold, blending trance with pop-rock elements through the collaboration with Sharon den Adel of Within Temptation. The track’s lush vocals and accessible arrangement made it one of the most streamed trance songs globally.
This crossover success demonstrated that trance could break out of underground circles into mainstream consciousness. “In and Out of Love” also highlighted the growing importance of digital platforms in EDM’s dissemination, as streaming played a vital role in reaching diverse audiences and cementing the genre’s commercial viability.
“If You Should Go” feat. Susana (2008): Upholding Uplifting Traditions
Returning to the core of uplifting trance, “If You Should Go” is a testament to Armin’s dedication to emotional depth paired with dancefloor energy. The track’s poignant lyrics and soaring synths encapsulate the uplifting trance ethos—music that elevates both body and spirit.
This release influenced many producers to focus on the balance between euphoria and emotion. It became a fan favorite, often featured in Armin’s live sets, reinforcing trance’s reputation as a genre rooted in positive energy and connection.
“This Is What It Feels Like” feat. Trevor Guthrie (2013): Mainstream Recognition
One of Armin’s most commercially successful tracks, “This Is What It Feels Like,” blurred the lines between trance, progressive house, and pop. With a catchy chorus and polished production, it earned Armin a Grammy nomination and expanded his reach far beyond trance circles.
The track’s impact lies in its validation of EDM’s place within mainstream music. It showed how producers could maintain electronic roots while crafting radio-friendly hits. This success inspired other artists to pursue crossover appeal without sacrificing artistic integrity.
“Ping Pong” (2014): Embracing Playfulness and Experimentation
A departure from emotional anthems, “Ping Pong” is characterized by its repetitive synth motif mimicking the eponymous game. The track’s quirky, minimalist approach injected fresh energy into festival sets and demonstrated Armin’s versatility.
“Ping Pong” challenged traditional EDM structures, encouraging producers to embrace experimentation and inject humor into their work. Its festival popularity underscored the appetite for novelty and fun within the electronic community.
“Blah Blah Blah” (2018): Minimalism with Maximum Impact
With a straightforward vocal hook and pounding beat, “Blah Blah Blah” became a high-energy anthem for the festival circuit. Its minimal lyrics and infectious melody exemplify how simplicity can generate massive crowd engagement.
The song influenced the production of EDM festival bangers, proving that stripped-down, focused tracks can have profound impact. It further solidified Armin’s position as a producer who understands the nuances of live audience interaction.
“Turn It Up” (2019): Bridging Genres and Innovation
In “Turn It Up,” Armin van Buuren continues to push boundaries by blending his trance roots with elements of future house and techno. The track’s pulsating rhythm and melodic layers showcase a modern, hybrid approach to EDM production.
This song exemplifies the genre fluidity that defines contemporary electronic music. It encourages producers to fuse styles creatively, reflecting the evolving tastes of EDM audiences and keeping the scene vibrant.
“Something Real” feat. Avian Grays (2020): A Modern Return to Classic Trance
“Something Real” is a heartfelt track that reconnects with Armin’s signature melodic trance style, complete with uplifting progressions and evocative vocals. It reflects a mature artist revisiting his origins while appealing to modern listeners.
This release reinforces the importance of emotional storytelling in EDM. Amid a sea of formulaic productions, “Something Real” stands out as a reminder of the power of sincerity in dance music.
The Broader Influence on EDM Culture and Production
Beyond individual songs, Armin van Buuren’s influence permeates the entire EDM ecosystem. His work has helped shape festival programming, DJ performance styles, and even production techniques. For instance, his meticulous attention to melodic development, layering, and sound design has inspired countless producers to pursue craftsmanship alongside commercial appeal.
Moreover, Armin’s role as host of A State of Trance (ASOT) has been critical in fostering a global community around trance and progressive music. The radio show acts as a platform for new talent, further amplifying his influence on EDM’s next generation.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Armin van Buuren’s Iconic Tracks
From the hypnotic synth lines of “Blue Fear” to the mainstream crossover of “This Is What It Feels Like,” Armin van Buuren’s influential tracks demonstrate a unique blend of innovation, emotion, and adaptability. His music has transcended boundaries—musical, cultural, and technological—helping define what EDM is today.
For producers, Armin’s discography is a masterclass in balancing technical skill with heartfelt expression. For fans, these tracks are timeless soundtracks to their most memorable moments.
Ultimately, Armin van Buuren’s contribution to EDM is not just in his music but in his enduring commitment to pushing the genre forward while honoring its emotional core. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future artists and listeners for decades to come.
