Paul van Dyk's VONYC Sessions Episode 987

Paul van Dyk – Biography Paul van Dyk (born Matthias Paul) is a German DJ, record producer, and musician, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in trance and electronic dance music (EDM). Early Life Full Name: Matthias Paul Born: December 16, 1971, in Eisenhüttenstadt, East Germany (GDR) Grew up under communist rule but was fascinated by Western music smuggled into East Germany. After the fall of the Berlin Wall (1989), he moved to Berlin and began DJing in underground clubs. Music Career Breakthrough & Rise to Fame (1990s) 1991 – Started playing at Berlin’s iconic clubs Tresor and E-Werk. 1993 – Released his first single, "Perfect Day". 1994 – Debut album "45 RPM" established him in the trance scene. 1996 – Second album "Seven Ways" solidified his reputation. Global Success (2000s) 2000 – Album "Out There and Back", featuring hits like "We Are Alive" and "Tell Me Why (The Riddle)". 2003 – "Reflections" won a Grammy Award (2005) for Best Dance/Electronic Album. 2007 – "In Between", featuring collaborations with David Byrne (Talking Heads) and others. Founded his own record label, Vandit Records. Recent Work (2010s–Present) 2012 – "Evolution" (album) included the hit "Eternity" (fe. Adam Young of Owl City). 2015 – "The Politics of Dancing 3" (compilation mix). 2017 – "From Then On" (album). Continues to tour globally and release new music. Musical Style & Influence Known for melodic trance, progressive trance, and uplifting anthems. One of the first DJs to incorporate live remixing and digital controllers in performances. Ranked #1 in DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs (2005, 2006) and consistently in the top 10 for years. Personal Life Married to Jana van Dyk; they have a son together. 2016 Accident: Suffered serious injuries after falling from a stage at A State of Trance Festival in Utrecht but made a full recovery. Supports various charitable causes, including human rights and disaster relief. Awards & Achievements Grammy Award (2005) for "Reflections". World Music Award, International Dance Music Award (IDMA), and others. Named "Best DJ in the World" by DJ Mag and other publications. Paul van Dyk remains a legendary figure in electronic music, known for his uplifting melodies and energetic live performances.