RAM Celebrates ‘30 Years of RAM’ with Emotion, Legacy, and Uplifting Energy

For the past 3 decades, RAM has poured his heart and soul into Trance music, shaping the genre with emotion and melody. Now, he celebrates the milestone with a new album, a powerful remix collection reimagining his most iconic tracks. In this interview, he reflects on staying true to his heart, creating meaningful music, and the deep bond with fans that keeps his journey alive.

Hailing from the Netherlands, the birthplace of some of Trance's most iconic names, Ram Boon embarked on his journey in the early '90s, spinning his way from intimate underground parties to the grandest stages across the globe. Through it all, RAM has stayed true to his roots, cementing his place as an ambassador for uplifting Trance. 

It was 2009 when his iconic track 'RAMsterdam' catapulted him into the spotlight, becoming an instant anthem and earning praise from industry giants like Armin van Buuren, who featured it in the iconic “A State of Trance” Year Mix. That track was just the beginning of a remarkable journey, one that saw RAM release a string of unforgettable hits, collaborate with the genre’s most respected vocalists, and create music that resonates as much emotionally as it does on the dancefloor.

Now, as he celebrates 30 years in the scene, RAM presents a double CD that honors his incredible journey and the timeless spirit of Trance. “30 Years of Trance” is a carefully curated collection, filled with fresh remixes and reworks of his most cherished productions where each track tells its own story, each beat is laden with meaning. 

Known for his ability to connect deeply with listeners, RAM has always infused his music with personal experiences. His sound has become a source of comfort, energy, and unity, resonating with fans around the world. 

“30 Years of Trance” is more than just a milestone; it’s a celebration of a lifetime dedicated to music, passion, and connection. Whether you’ve been following RAM since the early days or you’re just discovering his legacy now, this release is a powerful testament to why Trance continues to thrive and captivate us, year after year. 

Two years ago, you released Wanderlust, and the response was incredible. Now you’re back on a similar path - but this time, celebrating an amazing milestone: 30 years in the scene. Your new double CD, ‘30 Years of Trance’, brings together fan favorites and fresh remixes. What was it like curating and reworking your own musical legacy? 

I was thinking about how to mark 30 years in the scene. For my 25th anniversary, I released a 4-CD mix compilation that sold out quickly and still gets people talking—but I didn’t want to repeat the same idea. And since Wanderlust came out just two years ago, releasing a new artist album didn’t feel right either. So I thought: why not revisit my best tracks and some forgotten gems, and have them reimagined through remixes? I brought in a great mix of rising talents and established names, and I’m really happy with how it turned out. The feedback so far has been amazing. 

You teamed up with some amazing talent on this project - Alex M.O.R.P.H., Darren Porter, XiJaro & Pitch, Talla 2XLC, Asteroid... the list goes on. How did they handle the challenge of reimagining these tracks? 

Yes, some of the artists’ signature sounds matched the tracks perfectly, and it all came together really well. Everyone was happy with the tracks they picked, which meant they were truly inspired and that definitely shows in the final result. 

It’s probably tough to pick just one, but is there a track on this album that feels like the heartbeat of the whole project - the one that really sums up your 30-year Trance Adventure? 

RAMelia will always be my ultimate heartbreaker. Such a deeply special track for me. I’ve always wanted to revisit it and create a new version one day. There were two original ideas for this anniversary project, and this was one of them. But I knew I couldn’t take it on alone, especially given the emotional weight and impact that the original had. I’m really grateful that Richard helped bring it to life again. Also love what Steve Dekay did with 'Grotesque' and Bogdan Vix with 'Umani' - two often-forgotten tracks that got a massive and very unique upgrade. And the remixes by Doppenberg, Brendan Bartels, Dan Cooper and Paul Denton - they’re all amazing. Honestly, I’m just really happy with every track on this release. 

Your music has always carried deep emotions and personal meaning, often honoring the people you’ve loved and lost. How important has storytelling been in your work, and how has that ‘vulnerability’ helped you connect with fans over the years, especially as you look back on your journey now? 

It’s not necessarily about people I’ve lost, that was what “Forever Love” was for. I just really connect with meaningful lyrics and emotion in music. There are a billion songs out there that feel average or hollow (just a melody with lyrics about skies and butterflies). That’s just not for me. I need to feel something to connect with a track. Even with some of my own songs, the moment I finish them, I start second-guessing myself. I guess I don’t make it easy on myself, haha. But my journey has always been about helping people connect with themselves through music, and hopefully, making them feel happy. 

Thirty years in the scene is huge! When you look back on it all - the music, the shows, the people, what emotions come up for you? 

It’s been a freaking rollercoaster, full of incredible highs, but definitely some lows too. But honestly, the most valuable part has been my personal journey through it all. From day one until now, it’s been a constant learning process. If I look back at where I started, I could’ve never imagined everything that’s happened in between would become reality. It’s been an emotional and powerful ride, and one I’m truly proud of. 

Trance has gone through a lot of changes over the years. In your eyes, what’s kept it so timeless and meaningful for fans across generations? 

For me, Trance has always stood apart from every other genre because of its melodies. It has that feel-good factor that nothing else gives me. There’s no other music in the world that creates the same feeling inside of you. Through Trance, I’ve been able to release all my emotions that saved me more than once from some really dark moments. That connection has never changed over the years. 

Of course, music production has evolved. It's necessary, or the genre risks fading away and appealing only to hardcore fans. I believe music is an evolutionary process, and you can really see that now. The lines between genres are disappearing, and artists are blending everything, which is super exciting. I also love the new wave of Trance, artists like Ki/Ki, Odymel, Pegassi - it's Trance, but with the energy and spirit of a younger generation. It’s amazing to see how the sound is progressing. 

Even with all the shifts in the industry, you’ve stayed true to your sound and uplifting Trance. What helped you stay grounded? And if you could give a piece of advice to new producers today, what advice would it be? 

I’m exploring a new sound, which you'll soon hear under my alias RAM pres. RAV3HEART. But at the end of the day, you have to follow your heart—whatever that may sound like. Without that, the music becomes meaningless, and you’ll never leave a personal mark on it. 

A lot of people chase what’s currently hot, but that won’t make you unique. I’ve fallen into that trap myself once, and it didn’t bring me joy or fulfillment. So I returned to the sound I love—energetic Trance with feel-good vibes and emotional vocals—something I can play with a smile and genuine connection. 

My advice? Stay true to yourself and develop your own sound. You’ll find more lasting success doing that than by copying trends, like 95% of people are doing today. 

Artists often face many challenges along the way. Losing your beloved wife was undoubtedly one of the most difficult moments in your life. You've always had the support of Black Hole and the Trance community but can you share what helped you the most through that time? 

By far, yes, and the answer is actually very simple. There’s only one true remedy: music and my son. Music has carried me through some of the darkest times in my life, not just Trance or dance music, but all kinds. It’s been a healing force for me, helping me stay grounded and not lose myself in negativity or destructive thoughts. Music is life! My advice? Stay true to yourself and develop your own sound. You’ll find more lasting success doing that than copying trends, like 95% of people do today. 

Finally, what do you hope fans - both old and new - take away from ‘30 Years of Trance’? 

I honestly don’t know. I don’t make music for fans. I make music that makes me feel good. If other people connect with it too, that’s a gift and a bonus. Over the years, I’ve received so many messages from people telling me how my music helped them through tough times or moments of loss. That’s the true power of music. I’m incredibly humbled to know my tracks can have that kind of impact, and I hope that connection continues. 

This year, I’ve got a few powerful gems on the way, some of the most emotional and meaningful music I’ve ever created. I’m always grateful for the support, so a huge thank you to everyone who buys, streams, and listens to my music.

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