Tiësto (b. 1969)

Talk to Tiësto

Have a conversation with this historical figure through AI

Biography

Tijs Michiel Verwest, known professionally as Tiësto, is a Dutch DJ and record producer. He was voted "The Greatest DJ of All Time" by Mix magazine in a 2010/2011 poll amongst fans. In 2013, he was voted by DJ Mag readers as the "best DJ of the last 20 years". He is also regarded as the "Godfather of EDM" by many sources.

In Their Own Words (1)

"No more hellfires and please no more gunfire"

"Dance4Life"

Timeline

The story of Tiësto, told in moments.

1969 Birth

Born Tijs Verwest in Breda, Netherlands. Discovered electronic music as a teenager. Started DJing in local clubs in his early twenties. Took the stage name Tiesto.

What was it about electronic music that hooked you as a teenager? Was DJing in local Dutch clubs the apprenticeship you needed? When did Tiesto feel like the right stage name?

2000 Event

His remix of Delerium's "Silence" featuring Sarah McLachlan crossed over to mainstream radio. Founded Black Hole Recordings in 1997. His In Search of Sunrise mix compilations became essential listening for trance fans.

How did remixing 'Silence' cross you over to mainstream? Were the In Search of Sunrise mixes your artistic statement? Did Black Hole Recordings feel like building an empire?

2004 Event

Performed at the Athens Olympics opening ceremony. First DJ ever invited to play live at the Games. Voted World No. 1 DJ by DJ Magazine three consecutive years, 2002 through 2004.

What was playing the Olympics opening ceremony like for a DJ? Did three consecutive World No. 1 DJ years feel dominant? Was Athens 2004 the peak?

2015 Life

Won the Grammy for Best Remixed Recording for his version of John Legend's "All of Me." Known as the "Godfather of EDM." His Club Life radio show broadcast worldwide for over a decade.

Does the 'Godfather of EDM' title fit? Is winning a Grammy for a remix different from winning for an original? What does a decade of Club Life broadcasting represent?