Interview
Ferry Corsten on 25 Years of Gouryella at ADE 2025
Fresh off the stage at Transmission’s 25 Years of Gouryella celebration during Amsterdam Dance Event 2025, trance legend Ferry Corsten sat down with us to discuss the milestone anniversary of his beloved alias. The Ferry Corsten Gouryella project has captivated trance fans for a quarter century with its ethereal sound and spiritual depth.
The special Ferry Corsten Gouryella showcase featured an entirely new visual production, complete with profound lyrics and the iconic tree of life imagery. Corsten opened up about the spiritual depth behind Gouryella, his creative process, and how the universe guides him when it’s time to create new music for this transcendent project.
The New Show Experience
You just got off stage. How do you feel?
Feeling really good. I did two shows here as Ferry Corsten, and then the 25 year anniversary of my other moniker Gouryella. It’s two different sets.
Especially for the Ferry Corsten Gouryella milestone event, we did a whole new show, whole new visuals and a whole new structure of the set, and a lot more other stuff. To actually see that new show for the first time in an environment like this was amazing. Really, really cool.
Creating the Visual Concept
I loved the lyrics on the screen and the tree of life. Who comes up with the concept behind the visuals?
I worked together with David Moor. He’s also the person behind the application Showkontrol. A lot of people in this industry definitely know what that is—an application that allows you to sync everything on the screen that you put out from your decks and way more. But he’s also pretty strong in visuals.
I already had the actual topic with Ferry Corsten Gouryella of the bigger things in life. What is the universe, and how is frequency related to our existence? Pretty deep stuff. But that’s also perfect fuel for an amazing concept.
If you put that in words on a screen, it’s already visual. When people hear it and read it at the same time, it triggers a mechanism where they start thinking about stuff. I’m sure people will walk away tonight and be back home thinking of certain phrases on the screen. They’ll think “I read that today, that actually made sense” or “I can totally agree with that.” I want them to question more.
So together, feeding the ideas behind what Ferry Corsten Gouryella means into David’s brain, we go back and forth and come up with ideas for the visuals which he then creates.
Photographer Credit: Rutger Geerling
The Meaning Behind Gouryella
I’ve asked you before what Gouryella means, but what does it mean to you now in this moment? What do you want people to take away when they leave today?
Obviously the straight translation for Gouryella is basically heaven in one of the Native Australian tribes’ languages. But what does Ferry Corsten Gouryella mean now?
Seeing what the music with that meaning has done to so many people over the last 25 years—I know people who, it sounds really weird, but for them Ferry Corsten Gouryella is almost like a revelation type of experience. When they hear a new Gouryella single, they really live for it. It’s not just a bit of music, it’s a life changer.
Which is crazy, because for me, I’m in the studio making my music, doing my thing. But then when that track leaves the studio, it starts its own life. I could see it really in the end with all the lights and stuff. The whole package was complete tonight.
Planning the 25-Year Anniversary
Your family was here as well. How long have you been planning this? Has this been a long time coming?
Well, it started in 2001. The first three singles of Ferry Corsten Gouryella I did with Tiësto, and then number four I did myself. Then we had a break of 10 or 11 years, but the name and the project was still alive.
A lot of people kept asking me “when are you doing Gouryella?” Then in 2015 I came back with a track that really blew up massively and brought the whole project back again. That’s when I decided to put it into a show.
It’s been a show for about 10 years now, and it’s been evolving every time. When there was a new single, I had to add a new visual, so the show changed slightly over time but relatively still in a similar way. But now with the 25 years anniversary at ADE, I felt like we just need to completely give this whole thing a new overhaul and come out with a new show.
Photographer Credit: Rutger Geerling
Staying Creative and Motivated
How do you stay motivated to continue being creative?
Sometimes it’s best not to think about it and just be. Sounds weird, right? But to be creative, you’ve got to accept that you cannot put your clock to it. You are when you are. If it doesn’t work out, then just don’t get worked up about it.
I know people that feel instantly they have a writer’s block and think this is the end of it. No, it’s not. Give it some time. Always make sure you’re not useless in the studio. If you don’t write a melody today, you can always work on sound effects or create new presets or sound design. Do something else. You’re still productive.
But maybe tomorrow your mindset is different. You wake up in a different sort of vibe and today you’re feeling it—bang, there’s the next track. For me, it’s always been goofing around in the studio that brings what it needs to bring. If you take it too serious, it’s hard. You don’t need an idea to go into the studio. Just go in the studio, play around, and then something sticks and you work on that.
From Fun to Transcendence
That’s a really interesting juxtaposition, because you said that your music literally changes people’s lives. It’s so deep, so spiritual. But then you say you just go in the studio and goof around. How does that translate? How do you get from “I’m just having fun” to music that’s making people weep?
There’s two things, because Ferry Corsten Gouryella is its own entity. I really put that in its own sort of league. It’s not like I go in the studio and “oh, I have the next trance track, here’s the new Gouryella.” No.
I know that for that act, that sound has a certain emotion. You can’t really put your finger on it, but when I hear 15 trance tracks and I hear a Gouryella track, it’s different. That’s in its own environment if you will.
Going into the studio for Gouryella is very often in a bit of a trippy way. Gouryella is all about the universe. It’s very ethereal. But I’ve also become a firm believer that when the universe feels that I’m ready for a new Gouryella, it will hand it to me.
So look, I go to the studio and I find a new track. Maybe it’s a great idea for a house track or a trance track, but it’s not Gouryella. And then I’m in the studio and boom—oh, we’re on to something. That’s why over the years there could be a year or two or three years in between two Gouryella tracks, because there was never a track that was the right one for that.
Photographer Credit: Rutger Geerling
Evolution of the Sound
How has the Gouryella sound evolved over the last 25 years?
A bit more polished, bit more rich in texture and stuff. When you learn to produce in a better way, that happens. But some Ferry Corsten Gouryella tracks have been really ethereal. Some of the earlier stuff had a bit of a rave thing to it as well. I am now at the point where I feel like it needs to stay ethereal, but I need a bit of pepper and salt for the next punch.
A Solo Journey
You started the project with Tiësto. Now you produce yourself. Would you do it with somebody else again?
Just me. When I did the first three with Tiësto and asked if we should do number four, he was like “You know what, I’m actually changing my sound.” That’s when he went all housey. I was like cool, maybe I’ll ask Armin.
So I asked Armin once “would you want to be part of the next Gouryella?” And he’s like “Yeah, but you know what? That’s such a thing for the people out there that’s you and Tiësto. So I don’t really want to do that because it’s just your thing.” Then I was like, you know what, I’ll just do Ferry Corsten Gouryella by myself and I can completely blast my vision onto it. And that’s it.
Looking to the Future
Last question: where do you see Gouryella in the next 25 years?
I don’t know. Only time will tell and the universe will guide me again.
Hypaton interview Talks ‘Slide’, Tomorrowland Debut, Avicii’s ‘Levels’ as he reflects on his musical roots, studio process, and what he’s building for 2026
We spoke with Hypaton following the release of ‘Slide’ with Izzy Bizu, a record that has started to appear in his recent sets while marking his current direction in the studio. His introduction to electronic music came through his cousin Giuseppe Ottaviani, which followed early guitar sessions at home and led him into producing his own material with a focus on melody and structure. That path later gained wider attention while he was still studying dentistry, when his rework of ‘Be My Lover’ by La Bouche was picked up by Juventus FC on Instagram, eventually reaching David Guetta and leading to an official release that has since passed 360 million streams. From there, he learned to DJ in 47 days at Guetta’s request and went on to open a Future Rave show at Hï Ibiza, before playing venues such as Ushuaïa Ibiza, Ministry of Sound, and [UNVRS] Ibiza. That same approach carries into ‘Slide’ with Izzy Bizu, where the track started from a simple groove and piano idea before expanding around the vocal and arrangement. Alongside this, his debut at Tomorrowland places him on a major festival stage for the first time, bringing that same mindset into a live setting where the set develops through how the crowd responds. In conversation, he also pointed to ‘Levels’ by Avicii as a record he returns to during longer sets, while noting how his background in dentistry still influences his workflow through discipline and attention to detail, and how his studio process continues to involve instruments like guitar and piano as he works on new material into 2026.
What inspired you to create music in the first place?
It really started at home. My dad introduced me to music when I was very young, and I began taking guitar lessons. In the evenings we would often play together, and that’s where my connection with music really started.
Later on, my cousin Giuseppe Ottaviani, who is also a DJ, introduced me to electronic music, and that was a big turning point. I remember feeling that mix of energy and emotion, and that’s what made me want to start creating my own tracks.
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You’re a qualified dentist! What factors and mantras from your previous profession did you carry over to your DJ and music career?
Precision, discipline and focus. Those are the main things I carried with me. Dentistry taught me that details matter and that consistency is everything if you want to reach a high level. And of course, the smile. That’s probably the most important one.
What song is a must-have on your USB stick at the moment, one that makes the crowd go wild?
For me, it’s definitely “Levels” by Avicii. When you’re playing long sets, it’s normal to see the energy go up and down at certain moments, but that track is one of those that can instantly bring everything back to life. As soon as it drops, the reaction is always insane. It’s one of those timeless records that just works every single time.
You’ve recently released your single ‘Slide’ with Izzy Bizu. Tell us how the collaboration came about and the production process behind the track.
The track started from a groove that felt very natural and immediate. I didn’t want to overcomplicate it, just something that works from the first listen. The piano hook came in quite early, and that really defined the identity of the track. From there, I built the production around that, keeping a balance between energy and musicality. For the vocal, Izzy was a perfect match. Her voice sits really well on the production. There’s a strong piano hook and quite bright synths in the drop, so her tone brings the right balance and makes everything feel cohesive.
Do you reach for places, things, or people for inspiration when producing, or does it come to you unexpectedly?
It’s a bit of both. Sometimes inspiration just comes naturally, especially when you’re in the right mindset. Other times, it’s about putting yourself in the right environment. Even small things can make a difference, like the space you’re in or the energy around you. Sometimes I even scroll through frames from movies. Looking at certain scenes, with specific colors and landscapes, can really help me unlock ideas. When I feel good and relaxed, that’s when the best music usually happens.
You’ve remixed songs by the likes of RAYE, La Bouche and Bonnie Tyler. What is the next song you would love to remix and why?
I think it would definitely be something that, when brought into today’s sound, can feel fresh again. Not every track is right to remix at every moment. It really depends on the current musical taste and what people are connecting with at that time. For me, it’s always about finding something that already has a strong identity and translating it in a way that feels relevant today.
You’ve just recently built your own studio. Tell us what your dream piece of equipment is and why?
For me, more than a specific piece of equipment, the real “dream” is the environment itself. I think having a space that makes you feel relaxed and inspired is way more important than any single gear. The studio should feel like a place where you enjoy being, where ideas come naturally. At the same time, I have a strong connection with instruments like guitars and piano. I often start in a more analog way, I need to physically feel the notes under my hands. That connection gives me a different kind of emotion when I create. If I had to choose one thing, I’d still say natural light. Having windows in the studio makes a huge difference, it completely changes the way I feel and create.
It’s your Tomorrowland debut this year. What can we expect from your set, and what DJs are you looking forward to seeing?
Tomorrowland is something I’ve always looked up to, so playing there for the first time is a very special moment for me. You can expect a set with a lot of energy, but also a strong musical identity. I always try to create a journey, not just play tracks, so there will be moments of tension, release, and connection with the crowd. I’ll also spend some time going around and listening to as many DJs as possible. I think it’s very important to stay updated and understand what’s happening in the scene.
Believe in yourself, always. Surround yourself with positive energy, and forget about ego completely. Just put it aside and work hard, really hard. More than anything, stay calm. There are always ups and downs, and they happen often, so what really matters is staying relaxed and keeping a positive mindset.
Finally, what can we expect from Hypaton in 2026?
My sound will evolve naturally, but it will always stay connected to my roots, especially the focus on melody. I’m really focused on bringing more emotion into my music, while still keeping the energy needed for the dancefloor. It’s about finding that balance and pushing it forward. I also want to introduce more analog elements into my productions, working more with real instruments and bringing that human feeling into the tracks. At the same time, I just want to keep growing, improving, and taking everything to the next level step by step.
With ‘Slide’ out now alongside Izzy Bizu and his first set at Tomorrowland on the horizon, the direction he is taking becomes clearer when you look at how everything connects back to the same starting point. The focus on melody that came from those early guitar sessions still runs through his work, but now it sits alongside a stronger intention to keep more of that physical, hands-on element in the process, whether that comes through piano ideas or how he builds a track from the ground up. That same thinking carries into how he approaches sets, especially across longer hours, where timing, restraint, and understanding when to bring certain records in plays a role, with tracks like ‘Levels’ by Avicii still holding a place because of how they land with a crowd in real time. What stands out is how consistent that approach has remained across different parts of his career so far, from early influences like Giuseppe Ottaviani through to recent releases and upcoming shows, where each step does not feel separate but connected through the same way of working. As he continues developing new material, adding more live elements, and stepping onto bigger stages, that link between what happens in the studio and what plays out in front of people stays at the center of how he moves forward into 2026.
Interview
Sam Blacky Interview On Mexico City, Ibiza Dreams, and Why Humans Will Always Win
We caught up with Sam Blacky in Tulum fresh off a set and asked her about her festival dream, AI in music, her favorite cities, and her long awaited Ibiza debut.
Sam Blacky interview on her Ibiza debut at Hi, favourite spots in Mexico City and Tulum, AI in music, and her biggest career moments to date.
Sam Blacky was in Tulum, fresh off a set at the iconic Papaya Playa Project that had the crowd locked in from first beat to last. The morning after, still buzzing, she sat down with EDM House Network for one of those conversations that covers everything that matters: dream festivals, the people who shaped her, where she stands on AI, her favorite corners of the world, and the career moments that hit different. Oh, and she drops an Ibiza announcement you will want to hear.
If You Could Have Your Own Festival, Where Would It Be, What Would the Theme Be, and Who Would Headline?
Sam did not hesitate long. Mexico City, even after briefly entertaining Tulum.
“Gun to my head, it would be in Mexico City because I think that is one of my favorite places in the world. I’m sure Tulum would be cool but I think I’m gonna go with Mexico City. Headliners would be myself, BLOND:ISH, Keinemusik, Hugel & Juany Bravo. The theme is… sexy jungle fairies.”
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Who Is the Smartest Person You Know and What Have You Learned From Them?
The answer was not a mentor or a music industry veteran.
“The smartest person I know is my sister. And I have learned patience, humility, and kindness from her. She’s older, seven years, her, my brother and I, we’re all seven years apart.”
How Do You Feel About AI in Music?
Sam uses ChatGPT daily but draws a hard line when it comes to the music itself.
“I personally do not use AI in music. If anything I use sample vocals, but most of the time I use original vocals. I used Chatgpt everyday. I know that we have to learn to work together but I’m slow to that game. I don’t think it’s gonna take over the music industry or take our jobs. The human aspect is unrelenting and there’s nothing that can copy it, especially live performances. I think we’re gonna win.”
Which City Do You Know Best? And Where Are Your Favorite Spots for Food, Drinks, and Music?
Born and raised in San Diego, though she keeps it off limits for going out. Ask her for a city where she actually hits the town and the answer comes fast.
“Mexico City, 100%, also Tulum. Shout out Orchid House, that is my favorite place to stay in Tulum and Mexico. They have the best food. And my favorite club by far in Mexico City is Phonique. I’ve been playing there for years and I’m very close with the owner and his wife. They’re like family to me. Mexico City just has everything dialed. Best music scene, best food, best drinks.”
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What Is the Most Game Changing Moment of Your Career So Far?
There have been many, but this year has been different.
“Honestly this year has stuck out to me the most. Make the Girls Dance, Hugel, Juany Bravo and that whole Make The Girls Dance family, it really is a family. The most unreal moment I’ve ever had was playing Space during Music Week, B2B with Grossomoddo. I’ve been dying to play there for 10 years. That was the craziest moment in my life and I’m so grateful.”
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“And Ibiza this year, I’m finally playing Ibiza. I’ve been going there for fun for 10 years and I said I wasn’t gonna go back until I played. This year I’m playing a bunch of shows at Hi. I can announce: Hugel presents Make the Girls Dance at Hi Ibiza, June 25.”
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Follow Sam Blacky for more updates:
Instagram: @samblacky
Spotify: Sam Blacky
Soundcloud: Sam Blacky
YouTube: SamBlacky
NOME Talks “Other Side” at Space Plus Bangkok for the STMPD RCRDS 10-Year Tour During Songkran
Speaking with NOME in Bangkok during the STMPD RCRDS 10-Year Anniversary Tour placed the conversation within a night tied to both the label’s ten-year milestone and the reopening of Space Plus Bangkok during Songkran. As one of the newer artists connected to STMPD RCRDS, NOME has started to gain attention through recent releases including Other Side, along with performances alongside Martin Garrix, including appearances at Ushuaïa Ibiza. His recent output focuses on melodic records that still work in club sets, something he continues to test in his performances before release, often playing unreleased tracks across multiple shows. In conversation, he spoke about developing Other Side over several months, working with Alessia Labate on the topline, and adjusting the track to sit between an underground club record and a more accessible format. He also reflected on his first time playing during Songkran, the reaction from Bangkok crowds, and how his recent run of shows in Asia is pushing him toward more festival bookings while continuing to introduce new ideas in his sets.
Being here for the STMPD RCRDS 10-Year Anniversary Tour at the reopening of Space Plus Bangkok during Songkran week, how does it feel?
“It feels really special. I’ve been to Bangkok multiple times, but this is my first time during Songkran. I love the energy. It’s special to be outside and see everyone with the water. It’s also my first official STMPD RCRDS show. I did Ushuaïa with Martin Garrix last summer, but this is my first STMPD event, so I’m really happy to be here and I hope to come back soon.”
Your recent release Other Side just came out last Friday. Can you walk us through the creative process behind the track?
“I wanted to create a real underground club track, and I tested it for about six months in my sets. At a certain point, I felt like it needed to be a bit more accessible, so I added a topline for the breaks. I worked with Alessia Labate, who wrote the lyrics. I didn’t change much on the instrumental, and that’s how Other Side came together. I’m happy it’s out on STMPD RCRDS.”
Your sound is more melodic compared to some of the heavier tracks on the label. When you’re playing live, like you did tonight at Space Plus Bangkok, how do you decide what goes into your set?
“I’ve made a lot of music in the past couple of months, so around 70% of my set was my own tracks, including unreleased ones. If you listened closely, you might have heard some IDs. I like combining melodic tracks with harder club records, and I think that balance works well.”
You’ve just finished your set here at Space Plus Bangkok. How did it feel?
“It was amazing. I love the Thai fans. There was a group right in front of the booth going crazy, and that gave me a lot of energy to go all in as well. I loved every second.”
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This night in Bangkok adds a different point in NOME’s schedule, with his first time playing during Songkran placing the set within a setting he had not experienced before. At Space Plus Bangkok, the timing also connects to the STMPD RCRDS 10-Year Anniversary Tour, where his appearance sits within a lineup that reflects how STMPD RCRDS continues to bring newer artists into its shows during a milestone year.
His recent run of releases and performances shows a clear direction, with tracks like Other Side being tested across multiple sets before release and new material continuing to appear in his performances. That approach links directly to what comes next, with a focus on playing more festivals while continuing to introduce new ideas in his sets. In that sense, the night in Bangkok does not sit on its own, but connects to a stage where his work in the studio and time on tour continue to move forward alongside STMPD RCRDS.
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