Behind the stage lights: The real life of Armin van Buuren that few people know about

To millions of fans around the globe, Armin van Buuren is a living legend—a trance icon whose name is synonymous with euphoric drops, massive festivals, and emotional sets that bring people to tears. But behind the lasers, stage smoke, and adoring crowds lies a man whose private life is a world apart from the glitz and glamour of the DJ booth.

While the Dutch superstar is known for his relentless work ethic and decades-long reign atop the global dance scene, few truly understand what Armin van Buuren is like when the music stops—when the lights dim and he returns home not to a stage, but to his family and inner circle. Here’s a rare look into the real life of Armin van Buuren, the person behind the persona.

A Family Man First

One of the least known facts about Armin is how deeply rooted he is in family values. Despite a schedule that includes globe-trotting tours, marathon DJ sets, and late-night studio sessions, Armin prioritizes time with his wife Erika and their two children. He’s spoken openly about the grounding force that his family provides, often crediting them with keeping him sane amidst the chaos of international stardom.

In fact, when the world went into lockdown during the pandemic, Armin described it as “a blessing in disguise” for his personal life. He had more time to spend at home, time he used to connect more deeply with his children, help with their schoolwork, and enjoy the simple pleasures of family dinners and long walks.

“Being a dad changed everything. It gives you perspective. Suddenly, the things that seemed so important—number one rankings, chart positions—take a back seat.”

The Spiritual Side of a Dance Music Titan

Most fans don’t associate DJs with spirituality, but Armin van Buuren has a surprisingly introspective side. Meditation, mindfulness, and journaling have become regular parts of his routine in recent years. He’s candid about the mental strain of constantly being in the public eye and the internal pressure he places on himself to outdo past performances.

This side of Armin began to surface more prominently after 2017, when he dealt with burnout and emotional exhaustion. Instead of burying himself further in work, he took a step back, hired a life coach, and began focusing on his mental health—a move that not only helped him recover but transformed the way he now approaches his art and life.

“You have to learn when to let go. Not everything is under your control—and that’s okay.”

He’s an Obsessive Learner

Away from the decks, Armin is a self-proclaimed nerd. He’s passionate about learning new things, whether it’s diving into psychology, experimenting with music production tools, or understanding new technologies. During his downtime, he often watches documentaries or reads books on topics like neuroscience, philosophy, and leadership.

He even went back to university in the early 2000s to complete his law degree while his career was exploding—a testament to his belief in the power of education and discipline. Armin is living proof that you can be both a creative genius and an intellectual powerhouse.

A Quiet Love for Nature

While fans often see Armin in cities like Las Vegas, Ibiza, and Miami, his heart belongs to nature. He frequently retreats to quiet Dutch coastal towns or forested getaways to recharge. In his social media posts, you’ll sometimes find images of tranquil lakes, foggy forests, and hiking trails—far removed from the roaring crowds and booming bass.

This connection to nature also plays a role in his music. Tracks like “Blue Fear” or “Sunny Days” aren’t just titles—they reflect his yearning for balance, peace, and reflection. Nature, for Armin, is where he feels most human, most grounded.

Perfectionism and the Price of Pressure

Being one of the most successful DJs in the world doesn’t come without its toll. Armin is known for his extreme perfectionism, often tweaking songs for months before he’s satisfied. This has led to sleepless nights and a constant tug-of-war between creative freedom and self-imposed standards.

In a revealing interview, Armin admitted that his quest for perfection sometimes leads to anxiety and self-doubt. Despite the accolades and accomplishments, he’s still his own toughest critic.

“You’re only as good as your last set, your last track. That’s the voice in my head, and sometimes it’s hard to turn it off.”

He’s Still a Fan at Heart

Even after decades in the business, Armin van Buuren remains a true fan of music. He regularly attends shows by other artists, reaches out to rising producers for collaborations, and listens to demos from unknown talents. He’s not afraid to praise others, and that humility has earned him deep respect within the industry.

He once described the feeling of hearing a beautiful new song as “falling in love all over again.” That passion is what drives him to continue evolving, both as an artist and as a person.

Conclusion: The Man Beyond the Music

For all the laser shows, mainstage moments, and platinum records, Armin van Buuren is still a deeply human figure—a father, a husband, a thinker, a seeker. His life behind the stage is marked not by excess or ego, but by introspection, balance, and an endless desire to grow.

In an industry often obsessed with image, Armin’s true power lies in his authenticity. He’s not just the guy who moves your soul at a festival; he’s the man who’s learning, healing, and evolving—just like the rest of us.

So the next time you hear one of his tracks or see him commanding a crowd of thousands, remember: behind the stage lights is a heart still beating with wonder, humility, and love.