This historic collaboration marks the first time these two Dutch titans have shared a studio, and the result is pure euphoric gold.
When the godfather of trance and the master of high-octane energy finally collide, you don’t just get a track; you get a manifesto for the genre’s future. Armin van Buuren has officially joined forces with Richard Durand and the ethereal vocals of Dicosis to unveil “Always You,” the official anthem for A State of Trance 2026: ELEVATION.
As a veteran journalist who has watched the ASOT brand evolve from a small radio show into a global powerhouse, I can tell you that this isn’t just another yearly theme. Released on February 26, 2026, via the A State of Trance imprint (ASOT1264), this record marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s 25th-anniversary celebrations.
The Long-Awaited Synergy of Dutch Legends
It is honestly staggering that it took until 2026 for Armin van Buuren and Richard Durand to deliver a joint original. While Durand has long been a staple of the Armada Music ecosystem—notoriously known for his legendary reworks of Tiësto classics—his technical precision and Armin’s melodic sensibility have finally found a common ground.
The track, which serves as the centerpiece for the ASOT 2026 ELEVATION tour, was first teased during Armin’s sets at Ultra Music Festival Miami and further road-tested at Tomorrowland. The studio version delivers on the massive promise of those live recordings, blending a piano-led breakdown with a 138 BPM drop that feels like a return to the “golden era” while maintaining 2026’s crisp production standards.
Deep Dive into “Always You”
“Always You” is built on a foundation of emotional tension. The introduction features atmospheric pads that create a sense of weightlessness—apt for the “ELEVATION” theme.
- The Breakdown: A haunting piano melody carries the vocal performance by Dicosis. The lyrics lean into the “Always You” theme of loyalty and the enduring power of the trance community.
- The Build: Richard Durand’s influence is unmistakable here. The tension is ratcheted up with driving percussion and a signature synth lead that cuts through the mix.
- The Drop: Pure, unadulterated mainstage trance. It’s expansive, wide, and designed to fill the rafters of the Ahoy Rotterdam.
Why “ELEVATION” Matters for Trance in 2026
In 2026, the electronic music landscape is more fragmented than ever. By selecting an anthem that balances nostalgic uplifting elements with modern tech-trance energy, Armin is signaling a “return to form” for the A State of Trance festivals.
Final Thoughts from the Editor
Whether you caught the premiere on ASOT Episode 1265 or witnessed it live during the Richard Durand guest mix, it’s clear that “Always You” is more than a song. It is the heartbeat of the 2026 festival season. As we look toward the 25-year celebrations, this anthem proves that the “State of Trance” is not just alive—it’s soaring.
Listen to “Always You” on Spotify
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