The Most Influential Trance Music Tracks of the 2000s

Take a look back on some of the most influential tracks of the 2000s that have shaped trance music today

In the ever-changing landscape of electronic dance music, few genres have demonstrated the resilience and evolutionary prowess of trance. From the soaring melodies of the early 2000s to the genre-blending sounds of the 2020s, trance has continually reinvented itself, captivating a global audience. This journey through two decades of trance music reveals a genre that has not only persisted but thrived, adapting to new trends while staying true to its emotional and euphoric roots. Here are our top 8 most influential trance tracks of the 2000s.

1. Armin van Buuren – “Communication” (2000)

“Communication” is an instrumental track first released as a vinyl in 1999. Inspired by Speedy J’s “Ginger” album, Armin produced the track in two days at his parents’ house. It became one of his fanbase’s favorites and marked notable success in the UK. The track’s various remixes, including “Communication Part 3” released in 2007, continued to elevate Armin’s status in the trance community. Further more, Armin Van Buuren’s impact on trance music with his recurring show, A State of Trance, has bolstered the prevalence of trance music to the masses.

2. Adagio for Strings – Tiësto (2005)

One can hardly talk about trance music without mentioning Tiësto as much of his early years was spent collaborating with trance legends such as Armin Van Buuren and Ferry Corsten. The story of “Adagio For Strings” goes back to 1936, composed by Samuel Barber. Initially associated with somber occasions, the piece took a more uplifting turn in the 90s with William Orbit’s version. Tiësto’s darker, brooding trance version, first appearing in 2004 on his “Tiësto In Concert 2” album and later released as a single from “Just Be” in 2005, became an iconic track in his live sets. It was voted the second greatest dance record of all time by Mixmag readers in 2013, showcasing Tiësto’s lasting influence on trance and EDM.

3. Ferry Corsten – “Punk” (2002)

While Ferry Corsten’s name may not be as mainstream as Tiësto and Armin van Buuren, he, along with the other two, were instrumental with developing the trance scene as we know it today. “Punk” marked a significant shift in Ferry Corsten’s production style, blending electro’s urban bounce with his trance stylings. This fusion was a landmark moment in trance history, showcasing Corsten’s innovative approach and willingness to experiment with different genres. This propensity to collaborate and fuse styles is what has led him to work heavily with artists to further boaster the trance scene. His most recent works include his “Unity” collaborative project meant to “bridge the gap between tempos, rhythms and artistic points of view”.

4. Rank 1 – “Airwave” (2001)

In the pantheon of trance music, Rank 1’s “Airwave,” released in 2001, holds a revered status, embodying the quintessence of an era when trance reigned supreme in the dance music world. This track, with its hypnotic blend of pulsating rhythms and celestial melodies, encapsulated the spirit of early 2000s trance, leading a wave of euphoric anthems that dominated clubs and festivals globally. “Airwave” not only captured the imagination of an entire generation of electronic music enthusiasts but also set a benchmark for musical storytelling within the genre. Its dreamy, expansive soundscapes and emotive progression have been a source of inspiration for countless artists, influencing the direction of trance music and ensuring its legacy as a timeless classic in the electronic music canon. As a harbinger of the melodic and atmospheric style that came to define trance in the early 21st century, “Airwave” by Rank 1 remains a pivotal milestone in the genre’s evolution, resonating with fans and artists alike even decades after its release.

5. Eric Prydz – “Opus” (2015)

While it can be debated on whether or not Opus is considered “trance”, Eric Prydz seamlessly blends elements of different EDM genres to produce his music. Especially during the mid 2010s, trance saw a huge shift as it saw it sought new ways to be more “club-oriented”. The result was an explosion of this trance/house fusion during the time period. As a result, trance tracks saw more radio plays as well as opened itself up to a greater demographic of listeners. “Opus” is now considered a top iconic song in the industry, known for its innovation and irreverence. The track showcases the best of progressive music, becoming a signature piece for Eric Prydz.

6. Above & Beyond feat. Richard Bedford – “Sun & Moon” (2011)

“Sun & Moon” was inspired by the personal experiences of Above & Beyond’s members and their fans. The track delves into themes of love, loss, and human emotions. Its success influenced many artists to explore more emotionally charged soundscapes in trance music. What results from trance mixed with the powerful, evocative vocals of Richard Bedford, is a song that Billboard has dubbed “The Saddest Song to Cry and Dance to”. Since its inception, the track has become a staple in trance sets and continues to shape the genre with its storytelling power and emotional depth. Above & Beyond has gone on to push the boundaries of trance music as they play with different genres, even going on tour performing acoustic versions of their songs.

7. Gareth Emery feat. Christina Novelli – “Concrete Angel” (2012)

“Concrete Angel” was received as a breath of fresh air in the trance community and critics, alike. It was praised for its ability to maintain the integrity of trance music while introducing a more mainstream, accessible appeal. Music critics and fans alike lauded the track for its emotional resonance and its seamless integration of pop sensibilities into the trance formula. This approach not only broadened the appeal of trance music to a wider audience but also opened the door for other artists to experiment with more vocal-centric and lyrically rich compositions.

8. Cosmic Gate – “Exploration of Space” (2001)

This track stands as a pillar in the electronic music landscape, defining an era and transcending the boundaries of electronic music. Released as a single and later featured on their debut album “Rhythm & Drums,” it captures the essence of trance at its zenith. The track’s enduring popularity and various remixes have expanded its influence across diverse sub-genres within electronic music​​.

Trance in 2023 is not just a genre; it’s a kaleidoscope of emotions, experiences, and expressions, continually reshaping itself in the face of ever-changing musical trends and technological advancements. Far from its origins, today’s trance transcends traditional boundaries, weaving deep, introspective progressive sounds with the pulsating rhythms of psytrance. This genre, once a niche within the underground scene, has grown into a diverse tapestry of emotions and experiences, continually reshaping itself amidst new musical trends and technologies. More than just beats and melodies, trance music is a narrative journey, a shared experience of euphoria and introspection. Its evolution reflects not just adaptability but a profound connection with listeners worldwide, remaining a vital force in the electronic music universe. As it continues to grow and transform, trance music mirrors the journey of its global community – ever-changing, deeply emotional, and unapologetically authentic.