The 1990s marked a period of profound change in the realm of dance music. From the pulsating beats of house music to the euphoria of trance, the dance music spectrum was constantly evolving. Among the myriad tracks contributing to this dance revolution, Robert Miles’ “Children” stands out as an anthem that captured the era’s zeitgeist and played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory.
The story of “Children” is deeply personal. In the early 1990s, Robert Miles (real name Roberto Concina) was moved by the recurring news of children dying as they tried to escape war-torn areas in the former Yugoslavia. The profound sadness and the need for a musical escape led him to craft “Children.” What started as a simple piano melody evolved into an electronic masterpiece. The track was initially made as an end-of-night track to calm the rave-going crowd.
The defining feature of “Children” is its ethereal piano melody that seems to float above the pulsating drumbeat. Unlike many dance tracks of the era which relied heavily on loud and fast beats, “Children” was more restrained. Its hypnotic rhythm and the iconic melody offered a sense of peace and introspection.
By the time “Children” was officially released in 1995, it was clear that the track was not just another dance number. It went on to top charts in over 12 countries, becoming a global phenomenon. With its universal appeal, “Children” became the epitome of what came to be known as “dream house” – a subgenre of trance and house characterized by its melodic, often melancholic, tones.
The success of “Children” heralded a new era in dance music, one that was not afraid to infuse emotion into its beats. The track paved the way for other producers and DJs to experiment with more emotive and melodic sounds, leading to the rise of the trance genre in the late ’90s.
One of the most direct impacts of “Children” was the catalysis it provided for the burgeoning trance movement. While trance music already had its roots in the late 1980s, it was during the late ’90s and early 2000s that the genre truly came into its own, and “Children” played a significant role in this evolution.
Artists such as Paul van Dyk, Tiësto, and Armin van Buuren were emerging during this era. The emotive and atmospheric nature of “Children” provided a blueprint for these artists, who incorporated melodic and euphoric elements into their tracks. Tiësto’s “Adagio for Strings” or Paul van Dyk’s “For An Angel”, for instance, exhibit the kind of melodic crescendos and emotional depths that can be traced back to the influence of “Children”.
Before “Children”, the commercial dance music scene was largely dominated by tracks that leaned heavily on vocals, particularly in the realm of house music. Robert Miles proved that pure instrumentals, if crafted with precision and emotion, could achieve commercial success.
This opened the floodgates for artists who prioritized instrumental soundscapes and melodies. Acts like ATB, with tracks like “9 PM (Till I Come)”, and Energy 52 with “Café Del Mar”, showcased the potential of instrumental tracks in evoking emotions just as, if not more effectively than vocal tracks.
“Children” also signaled a shift in the ethos of dance music. It demonstrated that dance tracks could be more than just ephemeral hits designed for fleeting moments of club euphoria. They could be poignant, everlasting, and capable of conveying profound emotions. This ethos was further carried by artists like Chicane, with tracks like “Saltwater”, and Delerium’s “Silence” which featured Sarah McLachlan.
Moreover, “Children” and its subsequent influence gave birth to the subgenre of “Balearic Trance” – characterized by its relaxed tempos and Mediterranean vibes, reminiscent of Ibiza’s sunset beach parties.
Legacy of “Children” Even today, nearly three decades after its release, the echoes of “Children” can be heard in modern EDM tracks. Its impact on dance music is undeniable, with many contemporary producers citing it as a source of inspiration.
More than just a dance track, “Children” is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders, cultures, and languages. It is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the fragile nature of life and the universal need for peace.
Robert Miles’ “Children” was not just a track, but a movement. Its emotive tones, coupled with its dance-friendly rhythm, changed the landscape of ’90s dance music. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence artists across genres, ensuring that its ethereal melody will remain timeless for generations to come.
