Anjunabeats is a prominent British record label that has significantly shaped the electronic music landscape since its inception in 2000 by producers Jonathan “Jono” Grant and Paavo Siljamäki of Above & Beyond. Initially focused on trance music, Anjunabeats quickly established itself as a leading force in the genre, releasing its first 12″ record, Volume One, under the duo’s alias. This early success laid the groundwork for the label’s evolution, as Grant and Siljamäki began producing under various aliases, including Free State and Dirt Devils, showcasing their versatility and creativity.
In 2005, the label expanded its horizons with the launch of Anjunadeep, a sub-label dedicated to deeper sounds that diverged from the trance focus of Anjunabeats. This strategic move allowed for greater diversity within the label’s offerings, attracting a broader audience and fostering the growth of emerging artists. Anjunadeep has since become a respected name in its own right, further solidifying Anjunabeats’ reputation as a nurturing ground for innovative music.
Anjunabeats has also embraced modern technology and community engagement, exemplified by its collaboration with Beatport in 2017 to host the “Beats In School” production competition. This initiative not only provided mentorship opportunities for aspiring producers but also highlighted the label’s commitment to fostering new talent in the electronic music scene. The competition’s winner, Joel Freck, exemplifies the label’s dedication to supporting the next generation of artists.
In addition to its record releases, Anjunabeats launched a 24/7 radio station on YouTube in March 2018, further connecting with fans and showcasing its extensive discography. This platform has allowed the label to reach a global audience, reinforcing its status as a leader in the electronic music industry. Through its innovative approaches and commitment to quality, Anjunabeats continues to thrive, making a lasting impact on the music world.