Rare photos from the early 2000s capture ATB, Ferry Corsten, Thomas Bangalter, Chocolate Puma, Darude, Fatboy Slim, and Armin van Buuren shaping dance music history.
The early 2000s marked a defining era for electronic music. Studio photos from that time, now resurfacing, offer an intimate look at the creative spaces where some of the world’s most influential DJs shaped their sound. From trance pioneers to house innovators, these rare images remind fans how much of today’s global scene grew from modest studios filled with analog gear, mixers, and raw passion.
ATB
ATB was already a household name by the early 2000s. His breakthrough track ‘9 PM (Till I Come)’ became the first trance single to top the UK charts in 1999, ushering in an era where his melodic style defined a generation. By 2000, albums like Two Worlds solidified his status as one of the most influential German producers of his time, fusing emotional melodies with club energy.
Ferry Corsten & Robert Smit
Meanwhile, Ferry Corsten and Robert Smit formed a powerful creative partnership. Corsten, already shaping trance as System F, delivered anthems such as ‘Out of the Blue’ and ‘Cry.’ Alongside him, Smit co-produced projects like Starparty’s ‘In Love With You’ and worked on numerous underground releases. Together, they set the blueprint for modern trance with soaring melodies and layered production techniques.
Thomas Bangalter (Daft Punk)
Thomas Bangalter, one half of Daft Punk, spent the early 2000s preparing for what would become one of the most influential albums in electronic history: Discovery. Released in 2001, the record redefined house music with tracks like ‘One More Time’ and ‘Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,’ cementing Daft Punk as pioneers blending French touch, disco, and futuristic electronics.
Chocolate Puma
Dutch duo Chocolate Puma, composed of Gaston Steenkist and René ter Horst, had already left a mark on house music under their alter egos. By 2001, they re-emerged with the single ‘I Wanna Be U,’ a track that propelled them into mainstream recognition. Their ability to combine groove-driven rhythms with accessible hooks laid the foundation for their long-lasting influence on the house scene.
Darude
Another major figure of that era, Darude, became synonymous with trance after releasing the global smash ‘Sandstorm’ in 1999. The track, which quickly turned into one of the most iconic dance records of all time, dominated charts and still remains a festival staple today. During the early 2000s, Darude continued his momentum with albums like Before the Storm and Rush, carving a legacy beyond his breakout hit.
Fatboy Slim
At the same time, Fatboy Slim pushed big beat into the mainstream. Known for larger-than-life productions and iconic videos, he scored global hits with tracks like ‘Praise You,’ ‘Right Here, Right Now,’ and ‘Weapon of Choice.’ His albums You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby and Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars defined late-90s and early-2000s dance culture, making him one of the most recognizable DJs worldwide.
Armin van Buuren
Finally, Armin van Buuren was entering a golden run in his career. By the early 2000s, he had launched the radio show A State of Trance, which quickly became the heartbeat of the trance community. With productions like ‘Communication,’ ‘Blue Fear,’ and later ‘Burned With Desire,’ Armin’s mix of euphoric melodies and driving beats placed him firmly at the forefront of the genre, setting the stage for his rise to becoming a household name within the dance music industry.
These photos capture more than just artists in their studios—they document the foundation of an era. The early 2000s were a time when trance, house, and big beat moved from underground clubs to global stages, and these legends helped make it happen. Their influence continues to resonate across today’s dance music landscape, proving that the roots of the modern scene remain as powerful as ever.
