Ferry Corsten at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities, Celebrities > DJs
- Net Worth: $30 Million
- Birthdate: Dec 4, 1973 (50 years old)
- Birthplace: Rotterdam
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Record producer, Disc jockey, Remixer
- Nationality: Netherlands
Ferry Corsten’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Trance Music Pioneer
Introduction: The Rise of Ferry Corsten
Ferry Corsten, a name synonymous with trance music, is a highly acclaimed Dutch DJ, remixer, and music producer. With a net worth estimated at $30 million, he has not only amassed considerable wealth but also solidified his place as a pivotal figure in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. His innovative productions, captivating remixes, and the long-running “Corsten’s Countdown” radio show have earned him a global following and numerous accolades.
This comprehensive article delves into the life and career of Ferry Corsten, exploring his journey from a young enthusiast to a world-renowned DJ. We will examine his early influences, breakthrough hits, entrepreneurial ventures, and lasting impact on the music industry. Discover how Ferry Corsten’s dedication and talent transformed him into a true icon in the world of electronic music.
Early Life and Beginnings: The Roots of a DJ
Ferry Corsten was born on December 4, 1973, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. His childhood was marked by an early passion for music. He was particularly influenced by a Dutch radio show, “The Soulshow,” which introduced him to various forms of early electronic music. This exposure sparked a fascination, leading him to collect records and develop a keen ear for different sounds.
By the age of 15, Corsten began DJing at school parties, honing his skills and experimenting with mixing techniques. He further cultivated his passion by creating and selling mix tapes to his peers, showcasing his growing talent. At 16, he released his first record, signaling the start of his professional music journey. He explored trance, club, and house music, eventually leading him to study electrical engineering after completing high school.
Career Milestones: Chart-Topping Hits and Global Recognition
Ferry Corsten’s professional career took off in 1995 when he won the prestigious De Grote Prijs van Nederland award, a significant recognition of his contributions to the electronic dance music scene in the Netherlands. This achievement boosted his profile and opened doors for wider recognition.
The following year, in 1996, he made his debut on the United Kingdom Singles Chart with the single “Don’t Be Afraid,” released under the alias Moonman. The track reached number 46, marking a major breakthrough as a solo artist and producer. This success opened the doors for more collaborations and further solidified his presence in the industry. In 1997, Corsten teamed up with Peter Nijborn to release “Interspace,” showcasing his versatility as a producer.
The late 90s were a period of prolific output and increasing recognition. Under the name Albion, he released “Air” in 1998, which became a top seller for Platipus Records. In 1999, his track “Out of the Blue” achieved a top-twenty position on the UK Singles Chart, followed by “Cry,” which also entered the top twenty. The release of “Gouryella” in May 1999 was a pivotal moment in his career; the track became a global hit, charting in multiple countries and solidifying his status as a leading trance music artist.
This success led to numerous remixing opportunities for both underground and established artists. During this period, he remixed tracks such as “Adagio for Strings” by William Orbit, “Universal Nation” by Push, “Why Go?” by Faithless, and “Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad?” by Moby. His remix of “Adagio for Strings” was recognized as the Best Remix of the Year at the 2000 Dancestar Awards, further cementing his reputation. In 1999, he was also named Producer of the Year by “Muzik Magazine,” an accolade that celebrated his creativity and technical skill.
Label Ventures and Radio Success: Expanding the Empire
The early 2000s marked a period of entrepreneurship and expanding his creative influence. In 2003, Corsten released his debut album under his own name, “Right of Way.” The first single, “Rock Your Body, Rock,” was nominated for Best Video at the 2004 TMF Dutch MTV Awards and reached the top 10 in the United Kingdom. He continued remixing singles and, at the same time, expanded his label, Tsunami, which he launched in 1997. In 2005, after eight years, he founded a new label, Flashover Recordings, further showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. During that year, he was ranked fifth in the “DJ Mag” Top 100 list, reflecting his popularity among fans and peers.
In 2006, Corsten released his second artist album, “L.E.F.” The track “Fire” was nominated in the best trance video category for the 2006 Trance Awards. In 2007, he launched “Corsten’s Countdown,” a weekly radio show that quickly became a staple for trance music fans worldwide. The show’s popularity has grown exponentially, counting down the highest-voted trance tracks and showcasing his keen understanding of the genre. He released his third album, “Twice in a Blue Moon,” in 2008. The first single from the album, “Radio Crash,” received support from prominent DJs like Tiesto, Armin van Buuren, Paul Van Dyk, and Above & Beyond.

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In 2010, he celebrated the 150th episode of “Corsten’s Countdown” and released a compilation album, “Once Upon a Night,” which topped the iTunes charts in the United States, demonstrating his continued appeal across different platforms. In 2012, Ferry released the album “WKND” and celebrated the 250th episode of “Corsten’s Countdown” with an eight-hour live broadcast, reaching a global audience.
Personal Life: Beyond the Decks
In 2000, Ferry Corsten met Lia Colayco at a club in The Philippines. They began dating and married in 2002. The couple has built a family together, welcoming a daughter in 2009 and a son in 2014.
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Legacy and Influence: Shaping the EDM Landscape
Throughout his career, Ferry Corsten has consistently pushed creative boundaries and influenced the evolution of electronic dance music. His innovative approach to production, coupled with his ability to connect with audiences through live performances and radio broadcasts, has set him apart. His influence can be seen in the work of numerous contemporary DJs and producers.
In 2013, Corsten collaborated with Markus Schulz to form the duo “New World Punx,” producing and touring together, including a debut arena tour at Madison Square Garden. The release of “Full On Ibiza 2014” and the “Hello World EP” series showcases his ability to stay relevant. In 2017, his sixth studio album, “Blueprint,” blended music with a sci-fi story, demonstrating his willingness to experiment with his sound. He also collaborated with Paul Oakenfold on “A Slice of Heaven” in 2018. In 2020, “Corsten’s Countdown” concluded with its 700th episode, and he launched a new show, “Resonation,” reflecting his continued evolution and adaptation in the industry.
In January 2021, Corsten further demonstrated his dedication to the growth of electronic music by releasing his educational music production masterclass. That same year, he launched “What the F,” which allowed him to showcase his entire repertoire of past and future music. The concept opened as a tour at London’s Ministry of Sound.
Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Ferry Corsten
Ferry Corsten’s journey from a young music enthusiast to a globally recognized DJ and producer exemplifies the power of passion, dedication, and creativity. His significant contributions to the world of trance and electronic dance music have earned him a lasting legacy. From his early singles to his critically acclaimed albums and the enduring success of “Corsten’s Countdown,” Ferry Corsten has consistently demonstrated why he is regarded as a true icon of the genre. His influence will continue to resonate with new generations of artists and fans.