Elles de Graaf, born on September 20, 1974, in Alkmaar, Netherlands, is a distinguished Dutch vocalist renowned for her significant contributions to the trance music genre.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
De Graaf\’s artistic journey commenced with her studies at the Amsterdamse Balletacademie under Lucia Marthas, where she honed her skills in various dance forms, including show, jazz, street dance, ballet, and acrobatics. Her diverse talents led her to perform as a dancer in concerts, theater productions, and television shows, as well as work as a commercial model. She also established her own show dance and choreography agency, showcasing her versatility in the performing arts.
Breakthrough in Trance Music
De Graaf’s vocal career took a pivotal turn in 2001 when she collaborated with renowned trance DJ Armin van Buuren. Under the alias Perpetuous Dreamer, they released the single “The Sound of Goodbye,” which achieved international success, reaching high chart positions in various countries. In the Netherlands, the track peaked at number 26 in the Dutch Top 40 and remained on the chart for five weeks, marking de Graaf\’s emergence as a notable voice in the trance music scene.
Solo Career and Collaborations
Following her initial success, de Graaf embarked on a solo career in 2003 with the release of “Circles Of Why (Without You),” produced in collaboration with Greg Murray. She continued to work with prominent trance artists, including Tiësto, Ferry Corsten, Blank & Jones, Marcel Woods, and Mike Nichol, further solidifying her status in the genre.
Notable Releases and Performances
Throughout her career, de Graaf has been the voice behind several trance classics, such as “Mind of The Wonderful” with Blank & Jones, “Show You My World” with Ferry Corsten, and “Lighthouse” with Bobina. Her dynamic live performances have captivated audiences worldwide, including her participation in the Armin Only world tour in 2008.
Recent Works and Legacy
Celebrating over two decades in the trance scene, de Graaf continues to release quality music. In 2018, she unveiled her long-awaited album, “The Long Run – The Best of,” under Raz Nitzan Music, highlighting her enduring influence in the genre. Recent collaborations include tracks like “Daydreamer” with Cold Rush, “Calm The Night” with Alan Morris, and “Everywhere With You” with Mhammed El Alami, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to producing emotive and uplifting trance music.
De Graaf\’s distinctive voice and artistic versatility have left an indelible mark on the trance music landscape, earning her recognition as one of the leading female vocalists in the genre.