Maintaining Consistency Amidst the Wave of Youth: Armin van Buuren What Does He Say About the Competition in the Modern EDM Scene?

Armin van Buuren is widely recognized as one of the foundational figures of electronic dance music. With a career that stretches over two decades, the Dutch DJ and producer has not only survived the constantly shifting tides of musical trends but continues to headline festivals, dominate radio waves, and shape the future of the genre. As a veteran in an industry increasingly influenced by new-generation talent, Armin has openly shared his thoughts on competition in the modern EDM scene, revealing how he maintains relevance without compromising his identity. While many of his contemporaries have faded, Armin remains a mainstay—and that’s no accident.

Staying Relevant in a Youth-Driven EDM Market

EDM is a genre built on youth culture. From the energetic festival crowds to the viral success of young producers on platforms like TikTok and SoundCloud, the scene thrives on fresh ideas and youthful exuberance. So, where does that leave someone like Armin van Buuren—a man who began producing music in the late 1990s? According to him, staying relevant in a youth-driven EDM market is less about trying to be young and more about staying open to evolution. “I don’t try to act like I’m 22. I don’t try to copy the trends,” Armin stated in a recent interview. “What I do instead is listen. I observe. I ask younger artists about their inspirations, and I genuinely try to understand what moves the next generation.” Armin’s humility and curiosity are part of what’s kept his career so vibrant. While many older artists either resist change or chase trends to stay afloat, Armin’s strategy has been more balanced—preserving the soul of trance music while welcoming innovation.

The Rise of New Artists: Inspiration or Intimidation?

There’s no denying that the last decade has seen a massive influx of new names in EDM. From Martin Garrix and Illenium to Imanbek and Fred again.., the scene has been flooded with talent. Yet Armin views this not as a threat, but as a necessary and inspiring wave of competition. “When I see these young artists breaking boundaries, I feel inspired, not intimidated,” Armin shared. “It keeps me on my toes. It pushes me to innovate. If anything, it adds fuel to my fire.” This mindset has allowed Armin to collaborate with newer artists while mentoring others. His willingness to adapt and learn has led to some of the most creative work in his discography, blending trance foundations with house, techno, and even pop influences. But more importantly, it’s allowed him to connect with a wider audience. “I want my music to feel timeless, but not outdated. There’s a fine line between those two, and watching younger producers helps me walk it better.” His annual “A State of Trance” events and radio show have also evolved accordingly, featuring up-and-coming DJs alongside legends, giving fresh talent the exposure they need while anchoring the scene in its roots.

Consistency Is the Key to Longevity in EDM

What sets Armin apart is not just his adaptability—it’s his consistency in the EDM industry. For over 20 years, he’s been showing up: releasing music, touring, and staying connected with his fans. In an industry notorious for burnout, this level of longevity is rare. Armin attributes much of this consistency to discipline and love for the craft. “There are moments where you don’t feel inspired. There are weeks where the charts are dominated by sounds you don’t connect with,” he said. “But if you show up anyway—if you keep producing, keep playing, keep evolving—that’s where the magic happens.” His studio rituals, meticulous production standards, and ability to emotionally connect with fans have ensured he doesn’t just rely on past glory. While he could easily tour on nostalgia, Armin has continually released fresh content, from experimental EPs to deeply introspective albums like Feel Again. Each project reflects not only his growth as an artist but also his commitment to consistency. “Success comes and goes,” he noted. “But consistency builds a legacy.”

The Pressure of Expectations: Competing with Your Own Legacy

For someone like Armin, who has been voted the world’s No. 1 DJ multiple times by DJ Mag and has played to millions around the world, the biggest competition may not be other artists—it may be himself. Competing with your own legacy, your own past records, and your own mythos can be emotionally draining. “There’s a certain pressure to always outdo your last performance, your last release,” Armin admitted. “Sometimes, the hardest part is living up to what people think you are. But I’ve learned to measure success differently.” Instead of chasing chart numbers or award wins, Armin has shifted his focus toward artistic satisfaction, emotional resonance, and connecting with fans. “If a track helps someone get through a tough time, or if a show gives someone an unforgettable night—that’s more valuable to me now than breaking streaming records.” This shift in mindset has brought Armin more peace and has allowed him to explore themes of vulnerability, love, loss, and healing in his recent work—giving his music emotional weight that resonates across generations.

Navigating the Digital Transformation of the EDM Industry

The EDM world Armin entered in the early 2000s was vastly different from the one we see today. Vinyl gave way to digital controllers, live sets turned into visual spectacles, and platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and TikTok now dictate success. Armin van Buuren has embraced this digital evolution wholeheartedly. His digital strategy in the EDM industry includes an impressive online presence, immersive livestreams, and engaging social media content that keeps fans involved even when he’s off stage. “It’s not just about the music anymore,” he said. “It’s about the experience—how you present it, how you engage, how you share your journey with the fans.” His “ASOT” livestreams have drawn millions of viewers and provided an intimate look into his creative process. Armin also uses digital tools to gather feedback, test out unreleased tracks, and study fan reactions, making him not just an artist but a savvy strategist.

Mentoring the Next Generation of EDM Artists

Rather than viewing young artists as rivals, Armin has chosen to become a mentor in the modern EDM scene. He frequently collaborates with rising stars, brings them onto his label Armada Music, and features them on his radio show. This spirit of collaboration rather than competition has earned him immense respect. “I know what it’s like to be the new guy, sending demos to people who never reply. So if I can be that one person who helps someone find their breakthrough, I’m happy to do it.” Armin’s mentorship isn’t limited to music production. He also talks openly about mental health, burnout, and the need to define success on your own terms—valuable lessons that many younger artists often overlook in the race to fame. Through his role as a mentor, Armin ensures that the future of EDM is not only talented but also grounded and self-aware.

The Legacy of Armin van Buuren: More Than Just a DJ

Armin van Buuren’s legacy is not just built on beats and basslines—it’s built on resilience, evolution, and a deep love for electronic music. While the landscape continues to change, Armin remains a pillar of the scene, offering both nostalgia and novelty. Whether it’s through curating unforgettable live sets, crafting emotionally resonant tracks, or mentoring the stars of tomorrow, he has proven that longevity is possible—even in a youth-obsessed genre—if you remain authentic. His ability to stay consistent amidst competition, his embrace of the digital age, and his philosophy of continuous learning have made him not just a survivor in EDM but a thriving leader. And perhaps most inspiring of all is his humility. Despite being one of the most decorated names in electronic music history, Armin remains approachable, grateful, and deeply connected to his roots. “At the end of the day, I’m just a guy who loves making music. And if I can do that while helping others and staying true to myself, then I’ve already won.” In an industry often focused on the next big thing, Armin van Buuren is proof that sometimes the greatest achievement is simply staying—and staying great.