Robert Miles’ timeless anthem ‘Children’ turns 29 years old

Robert Miles’ iconic track ‘Children’ marks its 29th anniversary this month, celebrating nearly three decades of reshaping the electronic music landscape. Initially released in January 1995 in Italy, the instrumental piece eventually found its way to mainstream success when British producer Simon Berry introduced it to a larger audience.Its re-release in November 1995 under the Platipus label paved the way for its inclusion in Miles’ debut album Dreamland. The track soon became an international sensation, topping charts in over 12 countries and gaining critical acclaim for its emotional depth and innovative sound.

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The story behind ‘Children’ adds a layer of poignancy to its success. Inspired by images of child victims from the Yugoslav war, Miles aimed to create a song that resonated with peace and reflection. At the same time, he designed the track as a calming close to DJ sets, helping to reduce road accidents among tired club-goers. This intent lent a unique purpose to the song, intertwining its haunting melody with a social mission that resonated with listeners worldwide.

A pioneer of the dream house genre, ‘Children’ combines a steady four-on-the-floor beat with soft, atmospheric piano riffs. This gentle, rhythmic flow appealed not only to club audiences but also to mainstream listeners. Its success in various countries and genres sparked a cross-continental wave of dream house, setting a foundation for future electronic music trends.

Robert Miles’ ‘Children’ remains a significant milestone in music history, seamlessly bridging emotional resonance with the pulse of club culture. Moreover, its timelessness continues to influence electronic music, and even after 29 years, it still stands as a unique emblem of Miles’ vision and talent.