The Story Behind Dance 2 Trance

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Before Trance Had a Name

Long before trance became one of the world's biggest electronic music genres, two producers from Frankfurt were experimenting with hypnotic melodies, atmospheric soundscapes and driving rhythms that would help shape an entirely new movement.

Those producers were Jam El Mar (Rolf Ellmer) and DJ Dag (Dag Lerner), better known as Dance 2 Trance.

Formed in Germany in 1990, the duo emerged during a period when electronic music was rapidly evolving. Techno was becoming harder, house music was becoming more soulful, and producers across Europe were searching for fresh sounds that could take dancefloors somewhere entirely new.

Dance 2 Trance were among the first artists to discover what that sound could be.

The Birth of a New Genre

Unlike many electronic producers of the early 1990s, Dance 2 Trance focused on emotion as much as energy.

Their productions featured:

sweeping synthesiser melodies

cinematic atmospheres

hypnotic rhythms

powerful breakdowns

uplifting arrangements

These elements would later become the defining characteristics of trance music.

Although the genre was still in its infancy, Dance 2 Trance were already producing records that transported listeners rather than simply making them dance.

Power of American Natives

Released in 1992, Power of American Natives became the record that introduced Dance 2 Trance to audiences around the world.

Featuring the unforgettable vocals of Linda Rocco, the single blended soaring melodies with driving percussion and a unique atmosphere unlike anything else being played in clubs at the time.

The track became an international success, charting across Europe and helping establish trance as one of electronic music's fastest-growing genres.

More than thirty years later, it remains one of the most recognisable trance records ever produced.

Its influence can still be heard in modern progressive house and uplifting trance productions.

I Have a Dream

If Power of American Natives showcased Dance 2 Trance's ability to create dancefloor anthems, I Have a Dream (Enuf Eko?) revealed their more atmospheric side.

Built around emotional pads, evolving melodies and immersive production, the record demonstrated that trance could be as moving as it was energetic.

Rather than relying on big hooks alone, the track slowly develops, drawing listeners into an expansive sonic journey.

It remains a favourite among long-time trance fans and collectors.

Jam El Mar's Lasting Legacy

Following the success of Dance 2 Trance, Jam El Mar continued to shape electronic music through another hugely influential project—Jam & Spoon.

Together with Mark Spoon, he created timeless classics including:

Right in the Night

Find Me (Odyssey to Anyoona)

Stella

These records helped define the sound of European dance music throughout the 1990s, cementing Jam El Mar's reputation as one of the genre's most important producers.

The connection between Dance 2 Trance and Jam & Spoon makes these projects two of the most significant names in trance history.

Why Dance 2 Trance Still Matter

Many electronic music acts achieve commercial success.

Very few change the direction of an entire genre.

Dance 2 Trance helped establish the foundations upon which countless producers would later build.

Artists such as Paul van Dyk, Ferry Corsten, Tiësto, Armin van Buuren and Above & Beyond all emerged in a world influenced by the pioneering work of producers like Jam El Mar and DJ Dag.

Their music continues to inspire DJs, producers and vinyl collectors across the globe.

A New Chapter on Vinyl

At The One Collection, we believe truly great dance music deserves to be preserved on premium vinyl.

That's why we're proud to be preparing a forthcoming double A-side release featuring:

• Power of American Natives '98

• I Have a Dream

Bringing these two classics together celebrates both the uplifting energy and emotional depth that made Dance 2 Trance one of the defining acts of early trance music.

Featuring carefully selected mixes from DJ Quicksilver, Intrance and Enuf Eko, this release has been created for collectors, DJs and fans who appreciate the golden era of electronic music.

Why This Release Matters

Dance 2 Trance were never simply another dance act.

They helped create the sound that countless artists would later follow.

More than three decades after their debut, their music still feels timeless—proof that truly great electronic music never goes out of style.

For collectors, this forthcoming double A-side is more than a vinyl release.

It's a celebration of one of trance music's true pioneers.