Paul van Dyk, the trance legend making us all wave glow sticks in blissful euphoria for decades, joins us at the Nexus Lounge Amsterdam during the Amsterdam Dance Event 2024. He’s pulled out all the stops for the 30th anniversary of his legendary track, For An Angel—and introduces us to his VENTURE X concept that has been running for 4 years!
Paul van Dyk’s journey started in the heart of communist East Berlin, where clubbing was nonexistent. But after the Berlin Wall fell, he dove headfirst into the city’s exploding underground scene. While Detroit techno reigned supreme, Paul went against the grain, searching for a sound that was uniquely his own—and that’s how his iconic style was born.
Paul van Dyk has solidified his legacy as one of dance music’s most iconic figures, particularly in the world of trance. Since the mid-1990s, his name has been synonymous with the genre, thanks to early standout productions like his 1993 remix of Humate’s Love Stimulation and the timeless classic For An Angel. Released in 1994, For An Angel became a defining anthem of trance music, capturing the euphoric spirit of an ecstatic dancefloor like few tracks could.
To honor its 30th anniversary, van Dyk has dropped a special double-vinyl remix edition. This celebration breathes new life into the classic with remixes from contemporary stars like Brazilian house sensation Öwnboss and French techno maestro Julian Jeweil. Each version adds a fresh perspective while preserving the track’s core magic, proving that For An Angel continues to inspire and energize dance music lovers across generations.
If that wasn’t enough to have you dusting off your rave gear, Paul’s been making waves with his electrifying VENTURE X: an exciting concept where the DJ sources from the finest trance, progressive house, and techno music available and brings it all together during one evening. “We went into the realm of electronic music, and the X stands for that. We don’t really know when we’re going to end up,” the Nexus’ Level – Legend Award recipient further teases. His sold-out open-to-close set at Amsterdam Dance Event 2024 was the talk of the town, a masterclass where familiar beats were reimagined to jaw-dropping effect. And yes, rumors are swirling about new music sneaking into the mix from his next studio album.
Paul van Dyk, having spent decades at the forefront of electronic music, has learned valuable life lessons along the way that he shares with aspiring artists: “Figure out what it is exactly why you want to do what you want to do, because there will be hard times throughout your career, and it’s always important that you know why you’re doing it. If you’re just doing it for money and fame, do something else,” emphasizing the importance of having a deeper, personal reason for pursuing this path in a challenging industry.
To learn more about Paul, including the oddest sample he had used in his production, listen to our full interview below!
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