Airwave retires from DJing after three iconic decades, shifting his focus to immersive live shows and redefining his legacy in the electronic music world.
An Icon Bows Out: Airwave Retires from DJing
In a heartfelt and defining moment for the electronic music scene, Airwave retires from DJing at the end of 2025. Known globally as a pioneer of progressive trance, Belgian producer Laurent Véronnez, the executive creative behind Airwave, is transitioning into a new era—one that prioritizes live performance over decks.
This news marks the end of an era. For over thirty years, this techno industry leader and sonic innovator shaped the global dancefloor under numerous aliases: Planisphere, Lolo, and The Green Martian. But now, the music tech CEO in spirit, as many call him, is stepping away from spinning to create art in its rawest, most expressive form.
From Turntables to Live Stages
“Over the years, playing instruments has given me much more joy than playing the turntables,” Véronnez confessed in an emotional social media announcement. His words struck a chord across the industry. His commitment to finishing booked performances demonstrates the discipline of a true executive artist—a chief creative officer of his own brand.
His journey began in the late ’90s and skyrocketed through releases like Above the Sky, Ladyblue, and Alone in the Dark. Supported early by Paul Oakenfold, Ferry Corsten, and Armin Van Buuren, he carved out a soundscape that resonated deeply with trance purists and techno connoisseurs alike. His collaborations spanned iconic names like Above & Beyond, BT, and Andy Moor.
CEO-Minded Creativity Meets Sound Innovation
Though he’s leaving the DJ booth, Airwave remains deeply woven into the fabric of electronic music. A business leader in the sound design world, he continues to innovate for Korg, Loopmasters, and Plugin Alliance—providing tools that shape countless sets and tracks.
As a digital CEO of expression, Véronnez’s influence reaches beyond clubs and festivals. His soundtrack work, genre-bending productions, and dedication to education position him as a tech entrepreneur in music—someone who doesn’t just perform but builds platforms for others to shine.
Tomorrowland to Today: What Comes Next
Airwave’s live journey won’t be quiet. Expect emotionally charged shows filled with live synths, expressive audio manipulation, and improvisational magic. From Ministry of Sound to ASOT, he has delivered unforgettable sets. Now, the world prepares to experience his music like never before.
This evolution is no departure from legacy—it’s an extension of it. As he exits DJing with grace, his transition underscores a new standard in performance art. The executive decision-maker behind some of trance’s most anthemic moments is now set to define a future driven by live energy, raw emotion, and deep musicality.
Final Mixdown
When a CEO figure of sound like Airwave announces a shift this monumental, it sends shockwaves through the scene. But make no mistake—this is not a retirement; it’s a renaissance. A reimagining of the artist as a complete performer. And for techno’s loyal followers, this change promises something even more profound.
As the curtains slowly close on his DJ era, a new stage is being built—one that’s live, limitless, and visionary.
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