What Armin van Buuren Never Does Before Performing – Why?

He’s one of the biggest names in electronic dance music. A global icon. A festival headliner. Yet there’s something Armin van Buuren never does before performing—and it might surprise even his most loyal fans.

In an industry where the party never stops, Armin van Buuren has made a life-changing decision: he never drinks alcohol before going on stage. In fact, he doesn’t drink at all anymore. For an artist who built a legacy in clubs, arenas, and late-night energy, this move wasn’t just unexpected—it was essential.

Why Armin Quit Alcohol Completely

The superstar DJ revealed in a deeply personal interview that he stopped drinking alcohol entirely to protect his mental and emotional health.

“Alcohol used to be a part of the lifestyle,” Armin admitted. “But I realized it was doing more harm than good. I had to stop.”

For years, Armin van Buuren was caught in a whirlwind of performances, interviews, and non-stop travel. The lifestyle demanded stamina—and often, alcohol was seen as a coping mechanism or a way to keep up the energy. But over time, the pressure took its toll.

“I was waking up tired. I felt disconnected. I wasn’t fully there, even when I was on stage,” he confessed.

The turning point came during the COVID-19 lockdown. Forced to slow down, Armin had time to reflect. What he discovered changed his entire approach to life and music.’

Mental Health: The Real Reason Behind the Decision

Armin van Buuren’s decision to never drink before performing isn’t just about health—it’s about mental clarity and emotional stability.

The Dutch DJ has been open about his battles with burnout and feelings of depression in the past. In fact, he says those struggles were magnified by a demanding schedule and the expectations that come with fame.

“I wasn’t happy, even though I was doing what I loved,” he said. “It took a toll on my mind.”

That’s why Armin chose to eliminate alcohol from his life entirely—not just before shows, but in general. The result? He feels more focused, energized, and emotionally connected to his performances than ever before.

What Armin Does Instead: Meditation, Gratitude, and Presence

So if he’s not backstage popping champagne or sipping vodka, what exactly does Armin van Buuren do before performing?

The answer is just as surprising as his sobriety: meditation and gratitude rituals.

“Every day, I write down three things I’m grateful for. I take a moment to breathe, be still, and feel grounded,” he shared on social media.

Armin has embraced the power of mindfulness. Before every show, he takes time to sit quietly, reflect, and center himself emotionally. This pre-show ritual helps him perform with full presence and deeper authenticity.

The Fans Can Feel the Difference

According to Armin, these changes have improved the live experience—not just for him, but for his fans.

“I feel more connected to the music and the crowd. It’s real. I’m not hiding behind anything.”

Fans have noticed too. Many say that Armin’s recent sets feel more emotionally charged and personal. Some even describe his newer shows as “spiritually uplifting,” praising the positive energy he brings to the stage.

Whether it’s a massive festival or a more intimate venue, Armin van Buuren’s performances now radiate clarity, intensity, and purpose.

Why Armin’s Choice Matters in EDM Culture

In the dance music world—where nightlife often revolves around alcohol, partying, and excess—Armin van Buuren’s decision to go sober challenges long-standing industry norms.

His message is simple but powerful: you don’t need alcohol to enjoy music or to perform at your best.

By sharing his story, Armin is breaking down the stigma around mental health in the music industry. He’s proving that it’s not only okay to prioritize wellness—it’s necessary.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup,” he said. “You have to take care of yourself first.”

A Role Model for the Next Generation of DJs

For young and aspiring DJs, Armin van Buuren has become more than just a musical hero—he’s now a role model for balance, discipline, and self-care.

In a culture where late nights, jet lag, and constant performance can burn artists out quickly, Armin is demonstrating a better path.

“Your career won’t last if you don’t take care of your mind and body,” he said in a recent Q&A.

His advice to upcoming artists? Build healthy habits. Know your limits. And don’t be afraid to say no to things that don’t serve your well-being.

The Shift Reflects a Bigger Trend in EDM

Armin van Buuren’s pre-show sobriety ritual isn’t an isolated phenomenon. More and more DJs and artists in the electronic music scene are opening up about their efforts to prioritize mental health.

Names like Zedd, Above & Beyond, and even Martin Garrix have all spoken about the emotional toll of fame and the importance of mindfulness.

This shift marks a new era in EDM—one where emotional authenticity matters as much as bass drops and laser shows.

Armin is at the forefront of that movement. And his fans love him even more for it.

He Still Delivers the Same Unstoppable Energy—Without a Drop of Alcohol

One might assume that performing without alcohol would dull the energy. But in Armin’s case, the opposite is true.

“I feel sharper. My connection with the music is stronger,” he said.

The proof is in the performance. Whether it’s a massive main stage at Tomorrowland or an intimate club in Ibiza, Armin van Buuren still commands the stage with unmatched passion.

He’s living proof that you don’t need to be intoxicated to elevate a crowd into euphoria. All you need is presence, purpose, and passion.

The Bottom Line: Why Armin Never Drinks Before He Performs

So why does Armin van Buuren never drink before performing?

Because he values clarity over chaos. Connection over escapism. Health over habits.

“Music is my high,” he says. “I don’t need anything else.”

Armin’s journey is a reminder that even global superstars are human. That it’s okay to change. That strength sometimes looks like saying no to what everyone else says yes to.

And maybe most importantly, his story proves that you can still party, still perform, still inspire—without sacrificing your peace of mind.

So the next time Armin hits the decks and raises his hands to the sky, remember: he’s doing it clear-eyed, focused, and fueled by nothing but gratitude—and the love of music.