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DJ Mag Top100 DJs
50
Paul van Dyk
37
Like most top DJs, Paul has been relatively inactive in 2020 compared to previous years. Although, the former two-time Top 100 poll winner (2005-6) had only just got back into playing out regularly again after suffering a serious, life-changing accident a few years ago. PvD fell through a hole in the stage at A State Of Trance in 2016, and at one point it was thought that he might never be able to walk again. Thankfully he recovered, although his movements are still somewhat restricted and have meant that he couldn’t tour the world like he used to — when touring the world was a thing. 
 
He was able to slip out his latest album though, ‘Guiding Light’, whose ethereal title track was sung by UK vocalist Sue McLaren, who Paul first worked with back in 2015. Stuffed full of other artfully composed trance bangers like ‘You Found Me’, ‘Remedy’, ‘Resource’ and ‘Exhale’, it was a signal that Paul isn’t about to deviate from the trance sound he’s pursued throughout his career. 
  

 
What three things have most helped you through Coronavirus Lockdown? 
 
“We’re still kind of in the middle of it, but what always helps me is my wife, family and friends.”

 

What steps need to be taken to address the racism in the dance music scene?
 
“People come together to celebrate dance music regardless of where they come from, which passport they hold or what religion they believe in.”

What industry changes are you personally pushing for to make the dance music scene more inclusive?
 
“Everyone is entitled to enjoy the music they like. Dance music is open to listeners from all walks of life.” 

What’s the greatest dance music track of all time?
 
“There’s no ‘one’ track to be defined. Electronic music started as a subculture and was defined by many people who followed their passion.”