Armin van Buuren announces withdrawal from festivals: ‘The studio is my new stage’
In a surprising announcement that has sent shockwaves through the global electronic music community, world-renowned DJ and producer Armin van Buuren has revealed his decision to step back from performing at major festivals. The Dutch trance icon, known for his legendary sets at Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, and other global events, stated that he will now focus on producing music in the studio, calling it his “new stage.”
A New Chapter for the Trance Legend
Armin van Buuren’s career spans over two decades, during which he became a household name in electronic dance music (EDM). With five DJ Mag Top 100 titles under his belt and countless hits like This Is What It Feels Like and Blah Blah Blah, he has been a dominant force in the festival scene.
However, during a recent interview, Armin shared insights into his decision to withdraw from festivals. “Touring has been an incredible part of my journey, but I’ve realized that the studio is where my heart truly lies now,” he explained. “I want to focus on creating music without the pressures of constant travel.”
The Studio as a Creative Sanctuary
For Armin, the studio represents a place of limitless creativity. As he put it, “The studio is my new stage—a place where I can experiment, innovate, and truly push the boundaries of sound.” This shift comes as the EDM landscape continues to evolve, with more artists seeking to balance live performances and creative endeavors.
This isn’t the first time Armin has expressed a desire to refocus on his craft. Over the years, he has spoken openly about the challenges of maintaining a demanding festival schedule while staying true to his creative vision. His decision to prioritize studio work signals a broader trend within the industry, where artists are redefining what it means to connect with their audiences.
What This Means for Fans
Fans of Armin van Buuren might initially be disappointed by the news of his festival withdrawal. However, there’s a silver lining: his decision to dedicate more time to studio work could result in a wave of groundbreaking new music.
“I’m excited about what’s next,” Armin shared. “This isn’t a goodbye—it’s a new chapter. I’m looking forward to sharing more intimate experiences through my music and perhaps some innovative online performances.”
While he may be stepping back from large-scale festivals, Armin hinted at the possibility of continuing his popular radio show, A State of Trance, which has been a staple for trance lovers worldwide.
The Future of Armin van Buuren‘s Musical Journey
As one of the most influential figures in EDM, Armin van Buuren’s move to focus on studio production could pave the way for a creative renaissance. With more time to explore new sounds and collaborate with other artists, fans can anticipate fresh releases that push the boundaries of electronic music.
Moreover, his withdrawal from festivals might inspire other artists to rethink the balance between touring and creative work. In an industry often driven by relentless touring schedules, Armin’s decision underscores the importance of staying true to one’s artistic passions.
Conclusion
Armin van Buuren’s announcement marks a significant moment in the world of electronic music. While his presence on the festival circuit will be missed, his renewed focus on studio work promises to bring exciting new projects for fans to enjoy. As Armin himself said, “The studio is my new stage”—and the world will be eagerly watching to see what he creates next.
