Anjunabeats is one of the most influential record labels in the trance and progressive house music scene. Founded in 2000 by the legendary British trio Above & Beyond (Jono Grant, Tony McGuinness, and Paavo Siljamäki), Anjunabeats has grown into a powerhouse label, releasing some of the most memorable and groundbreaking electronic music in the industry.
Origins and Early Years
The label was launched as an outlet for Above & Beyond’s own productions, with their first release being Anjunabeats Volume 1 in 2000. The track gained recognition within the trance community and set the foundation for what would become one of the most respected labels in electronic music.
Rise to Prominence
Throughout the early 2000s, Anjunabeats expanded its roster, signing and nurturing artists who would go on to become major names in the industry. Some of the early standout artists included:
- Super8 & Tab
- Nitrous Oxide
- Mat Zo
- Daniel Kandi
- Andrew Bayer
As the label gained momentum, it established its signature sound—an emotional blend of uplifting, progressive, and deep trance, infused with melodic and cinematic elements. The Anjunabeats Volume compilation series, mixed by Above & Beyond, became a hallmark of the label, featuring the latest and best tracks from their growing artist roster.
Global Influence and Expansion
Anjunabeats played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of trance and progressive house. The label expanded beyond just being a platform for releases; it became a movement. With the launch of its sister label Anjunadeep in 2005, the brand ventured into deeper, more underground progressive sounds.
Anjunabeats\’ artists have performed at some of the world\’s biggest festivals, including:
- Tomorrowland
- Ultra Music Festival
- Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC)
- A State of Trance (ASOT)
Above & Beyond’s Group Therapy radio show (which evolved from Trance Around the World) also became a central hub for Anjunabeats releases, introducing new tracks and artists to a worldwide audience.
Key Artists and Releases
Anjunabeats has been home to some of the biggest trance and progressive names, including:
- Above & Beyond
- Ilan Bluestone
- Jason Ross
- Sunny Lax
- Arty/Alpha 9
- Oliver Smith
- Genix
Some of the label\’s most iconic releases include:
- Above & Beyond – Sun & Moon
- Super8 & Tab – Helsinki Scorchin’
- Ilan Bluestone – Spheres
- Andrew Bayer – From The Past
- Arty – Zara
Legacy and Continued Success
Over two decades after its founding, Anjunabeats remains at the forefront of trance and progressive music. The label continues to discover and develop new talent while maintaining a loyal fan base. Anjunabeats tours and label events are held across the globe, showcasing their artists and the label’s signature sound.
With its commitment to quality and innovation, Anjunabeats continues to be one of the most respected and beloved labels in the electronic dance music industry.