Susana

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Susana, born Suzanne Kötter in the Netherlands, is a renowned trance vocalist known for her emotionally charged voice and powerful lyrical storytelling. From an early age, she displayed a deep passion for music, particularly singing. She was drawn to melodies that evoked strong emotions, setting the stage for her future career in electronic music.

Although her early influences spanned various genres, Susana’s introduction to trance music proved to be a turning point. The genre’s euphoric melodies and uplifting energy resonated with her, and she soon found herself at the heart of the global trance scene.

Breakthrough: “Shivers” and Rise to Fame

Susana’s major breakthrough came in 2005 when she collaborated with Armin van Buuren on the track Shivers. The song, featuring her hauntingly beautiful vocals, became one of the most iconic vocal trance anthems of all time. It not only introduced her to a worldwide audience but also solidified her reputation as one of the leading voices in the genre.

Following the success of Shivers, Susana became a highly sought-after vocalist in the trance community. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her voice made her a favorite among producers looking to add an ethereal and powerful vocal element to their tracks.

Major Collaborations and Career Highlights

Over the years, Susana has worked with some of the biggest names in trance music, including:

  • Armin van Buuren (Shivers, If You Should Go)
  • Aly & Fila (Unbreakable, Without You)
  • Markus Schulz (Unsaid)
  • Ferry Corsten (Lean on Me)
  • RAM (RAMelia – a tribute to the late vocalist Amelia, which became an emotional anthem in the trance scene)

Her collaborations have spanned across different styles of trance, from uplifting and progressive to tech and orchestral-infused compositions. Her ability to adapt to various sounds while maintaining her signature emotional depth has made her one of the most respected trance vocalists in the industry.

Solo Career and Albums

In addition to her collaborations, Susana has also pursued a successful solo career. She released her debut solo album, Closer (2010), which featured collaborations with multiple trance producers and showcased her versatility as an artist. The album included hits like Closer (with Omnia & The Blizzard) and Give Me Faith (with Mike Shiver).

She later launched her own Susana Presents album series, where she curated and performed a collection of vocal trance tracks, further cementing her influence in the genre.

Live Performances and Global Impact

Susana’s live performances have been a major part of her success. She has graced the stages of some of the world’s biggest trance events and festivals, including:

  • A State of Trance (ASOT)
  • Tomorrowland
  • Ultra Music Festival
  • Transmission Festival

Her ability to captivate audiences with her vocal delivery has made her a favorite among trance fans worldwide. Her performances, often filled with raw emotion, create unforgettable moments that resonate deeply with listeners.

Legacy and Influence

Susana’s contributions to trance music have been instrumental in shaping the role of vocalists within the genre. Her distinct voice, heartfelt lyrics, and collaborations with top producers have made her one of the most influential vocalists in the trance scene. Even after more than a decade in the industry, Susana continues to evolve as an artist, delivering powerful performances and collaborating on new projects that push the boundaries of vocal trance. Her music continues to inspire both fans and aspiring vocalists, proving that a voice can be just as powerful as the music that accompanies it.

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