Garuda Music

Garuda Music is a renowned trance and progressive house record label founded by Gareth Emery in 2009. Named after the mythical Garuda bird from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, the label has been a driving force in the melodic and uplifting trance scene, serving as a home for some of the most talented producers and DJs in electronic dance music (EDM). Over the years, Garuda has developed a reputation for delivering high-energy, emotionally charged, and cinematic electronic music.

Origins and Founding

In 2009, British trance DJ and producer Gareth Emery launched Garuda Music as a way to retain creative control over his music and provide a platform for emerging talent in the trance and progressive genres. Before starting Garuda, Gareth had been releasing tracks on major labels such as Armada Music, but he wanted a space where he could release music without creative limitations.

Garuda’s first release, Exposure Metropolis (2009) by Gareth Emery, was an instant hit, receiving massive support from Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, and Above & Beyond. This set the tone for the label, positioning Garuda as a powerhouse for uplifting and progressive trance.

Growth and Expansion

Throughout the 2010s, Garuda Music expanded its roster, signing established and rising trance artists. Some of the notable artists who have released music on Garuda include:

  • Ashley Wallbridge – One of the label\’s core artists, known for his cinematic and emotional productions.
  • Ben Gold – A trance producer specializing in high-energy festival anthems.
  • Craig Connelly – A respected name in vocal and uplifting trance.
  • Christina Novelli – A singer and songwriter featured on many Garuda releases.
  • Luke Bond – Known for his progressive trance and emotional melodies.
  • Standerwick – A leading force in the uplifting trance movement.

During this period, Garuda became known for its cutting-edge sound, blending classic trance elements with modern progressive and cinematic influences. The label’s releases were consistently played on A State of Trance (ASOT) and other major radio shows.

Notable Releases and Albums

Garuda Music has released numerous hit singles, EPs, and albums, many of which became instant classics in the trance scene. Some of the most significant releases include:

Key Singles:

  • Gareth Emery – “Sanctuary” (2010) (feat. Lucy Saunders) – One of Garuda’s biggest hits, combining uplifting trance with powerful vocals.
  • Ashley Wallbridge & Gareth Emery – “Mansion” (2011) – A progressive trance anthem played at festivals worldwide.
  • Ben Gold – “Where Life Takes Us” (2012) – An energetic and uplifting trance hit.
  • Craig Connelly – “Black Hole” (feat. Christina Novelli) (2013) – A vocal trance classic.
  • Ashley Wallbridge – “Keep the Fire” (2014) – A melodic and emotionally-driven trance track.
  • Gareth Emery & Ashley Wallbridge – “Kingdom United” (2019) – A cinematic trance masterpiece from their collaborative album.
  • Luke Bond – “On Fire” (2019) – A progressive house and trance crossover that became a festival favorite.

Albums:

  • Gareth Emery – Northern Lights (2010) – The first full-length album released under Garuda, featuring hits like “Sanctuary” and “Fight the Sunrise”.
  • Ashley Wallbridge – The Inner Me (2012) – An experimental blend of trance, house, and progressive elements.
  • Gareth Emery & Ashley Wallbridge – Kingdom United (2019) – A collaborative album that captured the essence of modern trance music, blending cinematic influences with high-energy beats.

Garuda Events and Influence

Garuda Music is not just a record label—it has also been a key player in the trance live scene, hosting club nights and label takeovers at major music festivals and world-famous venues.

  • Garuda Nights: The label has hosted label showcase events at top clubs like Ministry of Sound (London), Exchange LA, and Space Ibiza.
  • Festival Presence: Garuda artists have performed at Tomorrowland, A State of Trance (ASOT), Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), and Ultra Music Festival (UMF).
  • Garuda Live Streams: The label has embraced digital platforms, hosting live-streamed performances and exclusive DJ sets.

These events have helped solidify Garuda’s brand as one of the most respected and influential trance labels in the world.

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