MaRLo - Biography and discography, all albums and songs

MaRLo (real name — Marlo Hoogstraten) is an Australian DJ and music producer of Dutch origin, and one of the most recognizable artists on the modern trance scene. Known for his energetic sets and melodic compositions, MaRLo has become a symbol of uplifting trance, tech trance, and progressive trance, with his unique style celebrated at the world’s largest festivals.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Marlo Hoogstraten was born in the Netherlands, where he showed an early interest in music and technology. As a teenager, he experimented with track-making software, inspired by artists like Armin van Buuren, Ferry Corsten, and Tiësto. His passion for electronic music soon grew into a professional pursuit.

In the early 2000s, MaRLo moved to Australia, where he began actively developing his career as a DJ and producer. His early tracks combined elements of tech trance and hard trance, reflecting the energetic sound of the club scene.

Breakthrough and Global Recognition

MaRLo’s major breakthrough came after signing with Armada Music, the label founded by Armin van Buuren. His tracks started appearing in the radio show A State of Trance, and the name MaRLo became associated with powerful, inspiring sets and melodies that evoke euphoria.

Among his first big releases were “Whisper”, “Haunted”, “BOOM”, “Visions”, and “Atlantis”, which cemented his status as one of the leading representatives of the trance scene.

Particularly popular was the 2019 track “Lighter Than Air”, created together with vocalist Roxanne Emery. The song became a true festival anthem and was chosen as the ASOT Tune of the Year by listeners of A State of Trance.

Reaching Altitude and Influence

MaRLo actively develops his own label, Reaching Altitude — a sub-label of Armada Music, where he supports young talent and releases high-quality uplifting and progressive music. The label has become a platform for the next generation of artists and a symbol of the modern trance sound in Australia.

Performances and Festivals

MaRLo is a regular performer at the world’s largest music events, including A State of Trance, Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, Transmission, Dreamstate, and Stereosonic. His sets are known for their intensity, atmosphere, and emotional delivery, with MaRLo’s signature energy turning every performance into a world-class show.

In addition to international festivals, MaRLo also hosts solo tours and conceptual shows called Altitude, attracting thousands of fans across Australia and beyond.

Musical Style

MaRLo’s sound is a blend of power, drive, and melody. He is known for combining uplifting trance, tech trance, and progressive, creating a balance between emotion and energy. His tracks often build on contrasts between aggressive drops and airy melodies, making them recognizable from the first notes.

The artist himself describes his style as “tech-energy” — a unique approach where dancefloor energy meets melodic depth and emotional expression.

Collaborations and Remixes

MaRLo has collaborated with a number of renowned vocalists and producers, including Roxanne Emery, Christina Novelli, Emma Chatt, Feenixpawl, First State, Mark Sixma, and Ferry Corsten. His remixes and original works often receive support from major names such as Armin van Buuren, Andrew Rayel, Aly & Fila, Ben Gold, and Giuseppe Ottaviani.

Selected Discography

• Lighter Than Air (feat. Roxanne Emery)
• Haunted (feat. Emma Chatt)
• BOOM
• Visions
• Atlantis
• Dreams
• Hold It Together
• Whisper
• Enough Echo
• You and Me (feat. Chloe)

Personal Life

MaRLo is married to singer Jano (Janette Hoogstraten), with whom he not only shares the stage but also collaborates in the studio. Together, they have created several emotional vocal tracks that have become true hits of the trance scene.

Interesting Facts

• MaRLo was voted Australia’s best DJ by the inthemix Awards.
• His signature show Altitude has become an annual event and a cultural phenomenon among trance fans.
• MaRLo actively supports young producers by hosting masterclasses and remix contests.
• His tracks are regularly featured in playlists of A State of Trance and other major radio shows.

Significance in the Modern Scene

MaRLo is not just an artist but an inspiring example of how to combine club energy with melody and soul. He embodies a new wave of trance music where not only technical mastery but also emotional impact matters. His contribution to the development of the Australian scene and the global trance movement makes him one of the key figures of the genre.