Richard Durand, born in the Netherlands, is a highly respected trance DJ, producer, and remixer, known for his energetic, driving, and emotionally powerful sound. Originally a tech-trance and hard trance producer, he gained recognition in the mid-2000s with his unique style that blended uplifting melodies with a raw, energetic edge.
Before stepping into the global trance scene, Durand was a talented DJ and remixer, refining his skills in Dutch clubs and underground music scenes. His early influences included hard trance, techno, and progressive house, which shaped his distinct sound.
Rise to Fame
Richard’s big break came when Tiësto personally selected him as the official remixer of some of his classic tracks. His remixes of “Lethal Industry” and “Flight 643\” became massive hits, introducing him to the international trance audience. His productions quickly gained support from Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Ferry Corsten, and Markus Schulz.
In 2007, he released his breakout track “Make Me Scream”, which was widely supported by trance DJs. His ability to create powerful, club-driven anthems led to a fast rise in the scene.
In Search of Sunrise & Solo Success
In 2010, Richard was chosen to take over the legendary “In Search of Sunrise” (ISOS) series after Tiësto stepped down. This was a major turning point in his career, as he crafted multiple successful ISOS compilations, including:
🔥 In Search of Sunrise 8: South Africa (2010)
🔥 In Search of Sunrise 9: India (2011)
🔥 In Search of Sunrise 10: Australia (2012)
These albums helped define the new era of progressive and uplifting trance, blending deeper, emotional melodies with high-energy beats.
Signature Sound & Production Style
Richard is known for his high-energy, tech-driven trance that incorporates:
🎵 Pounding basslines and driving percussion
🎵 Emotional, uplifting melodies
🎵 Big festival anthems with cinematic breakdowns
🎵 Tech-trance and progressive elements
Tracks like “Always The Sun”, “Into Something”, and “Wide Awake” showcased his ability to create both dancefloor anthems and deep, emotional productions.
His collaborations and remixes for artists like Armin van Buuren, Gareth Emery, Markus Schulz, and Paul Oakenfold further cemented his place as a trance heavyweight.
Recent Years & Career Highlights
🔹 2018 – Released the powerful album “The Air We Breathe”, featuring “Skies Above”, “Lotus”, and “Save You” (with Christina Novelli).
🔹 2019-2023 – Produced uplifting and tech-trance hits such as “My Guiding Light”, “Tales of Light,” and “Walk with Me.”
🔹 2022 – Collaborated with HALIENE on the emotional hit “Give Your Heart a Home.”
🔹 2023 – Continued touring worldwide, playing at A State of Trance (ASOT), Dreamstate, Transmission Festival, and Luminosity Beach Festival.
Legacy & Influence
Richard remains a powerhouse in the trance scene, blending uplifting, tech-trance, and progressive elements to create timeless dance music. His work on In Search of Sunrise, as well as his energetic DJ sets and anthemic productions, have solidified his place as one of trance music’s most respected and innovative artists.
From underground remixer to global headliner, Richard continues to push the boundaries of trance, delivering high-energy, emotional, and euphoric music to fans worldwide.