The shocking sacrifices Armin van Buuren made to build his legacy
Armin van Buuren, one of the most iconic DJs and producers in electronic dance music (EDM), has spent over two decades at the pinnacle of the industry. Known for his legendary tracks, electrifying live performances, and the globally renowned radio show A State of Trance (ASOT), Armin’s name has become synonymous with success in EDM.
However, the journey to the top wasn’t without its challenges. Behind the glitz and glamour of sold-out festivals and chart-topping hits, Armin van Buuren made significant sacrifices to build his legacy. Let’s explore the untold story of what it took for him to achieve greatness.
The Grueling Demands of Touring
One of the biggest sacrifices Armin van Buuren made in his career was embracing the relentless demands of global touring. As a world-renowned DJ, Armin spent years traveling the globe, performing at festivals like Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, and EDC. While these performances brought him fame and fortune, they also took a toll on his personal life.
The long hours, constant jet lag, and time away from family became a recurring theme in his career. In interviews, Armin van Buuren has opened up about the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, admitting that his passion for music often required him to put his career above everything else.
“It’s not easy being away from home for weeks at a time,” Armin shared. “I miss birthdays, family events, and special moments because I’m out there doing what I love. It’s a choice I’ve had to make.”
Family Life Put on Hold
Despite his global success, Armin van Buuren has often spoken about the personal sacrifices he made when it came to his family. Married to his wife Erika since 2009, Armin is also a father to two children. However, his demanding schedule often left him with limited time to spend with them.
“Being a father is one of the most important roles in my life,” Armin said in a recent interview. “But I’ve had to miss so many moments because of my career. It’s a constant struggle to find the right balance.”
While Erika and their children have been supportive of Armin’s career, the DJ has admitted that he often feels guilt over the time he’s missed at home. This emotional weight is one of the lesser-known challenges of being a superstar in the music industry.
Mental and Physical Toll of Success
The pressures of being a global icon in the EDM scene have also taken a toll on Armin van Buuren’s mental and physical health. The high expectations to consistently deliver chart-topping tracks, host his weekly A State of Trance radio show, and perform at the world’s biggest venues often left him feeling exhausted.
In a candid interview, Armin revealed that he’s had moments of doubt and burnout throughout his career. “There were times when I questioned whether I could keep going,” he said. “The pressure to stay at the top can be overwhelming.”
Armin has also spoken about the importance of self-care and taking breaks to recharge. Over the years, he has learned to prioritize his well-being, even if it means stepping back from the spotlight temporarily.
Commitment to Perfection
Another sacrifice Armin van Buuren made was his unwavering commitment to perfection. Whether it’s producing a track, preparing a live set, or hosting an episode of A State of Trance, Armin has always strived to deliver the best possible experience for his fans. This dedication often meant countless hours in the studio and sleepless nights perfecting his craft.
While this relentless pursuit of excellence has solidified his legacy, it has also come at a cost. Armin has admitted that his perfectionist tendencies have, at times, added to his stress and made it harder to disconnect from work.
The Legacy of Armin van Buuren
Despite the sacrifices, Armin van Buuren’s legacy is a testament to his hard work, passion, and dedication. From his Grammy-nominated track “This Is What It Feels Like” to his influence on the global trance music scene, Armin has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
While the price of success has been high, Armin’s story is one of perseverance and resilience. His ability to overcome challenges and maintain his position as one of the greatest DJs of all time is an inspiration to fans and aspiring artists alike.
Conclusion: The True Cost of Greatness
Armin van Buuren’s sacrifices highlight the reality behind the glamour of being a global music icon. From time away from family to the mental and physical toll of relentless touring, Armin has faced challenges that many fans never see.
However, these sacrifices have shaped him into the artist he is today. Armin van Buuren’s legacy is a testament to his passion, talent, and determination to bring joy to millions of fans worldwide.
