2000 and One: The Driving Force of Dutch Techno

Dylan Hermelijn, known globally as 2000 and One, is a pioneering Dutch DJ and producer central to the evolution of European techno. Hailing from Amsterdam, his career spans over three decades, marked by a relentless stream of influential tracks on seminal labels and the founding of his own respected imprint, 100% Pure.

Early career

Born in Suriname and raised in the Netherlands, Dylan Hermelijn immersed himself in Amsterdam's burgeoning electronic music scene in the late 1980s. His early production work in the early 1990s, often under aliases like The Pharaoh, leaned towards atmospheric house and techno, laying the groundwork for his distinct sound.

Breakthrough

The year 1999 marked a definitive turning point with the release of the monolithic track Spanish Fly on the German label Rotation. Its driving, minimalist rhythm and hypnotic bassline became an instant anthem, solidifying 2000 and One's reputation as a leading force in the tougher, loop-based techno sound dominating clubs worldwide.

Key tracks

Spanish Fly — This 1999 track is his signature anthem, a peak-time techno weapon that defined an era of dancefloor intensity.

Funk Masta — A later highlight from 2006, this track showcases his funkier, bass-heavy side while maintaining formidable rhythmic power.

Payback — Released on his 100% Pure label, this track exemplifies the raw, energetic production style that became his trademark in the 2000s.

In The Woods — This collaboration with fellow Dutch artist Secret Cinema illustrates his skill in crafting expansive, atmospheric techno journeys.

Following his breakthrough, 2000 and One capitalized on his momentum by founding the label 100% Pure in 2000. The label became a crucial outlet for his own prolific output and a platform for other Dutch techno artists, releasing a steady stream of 12" singles and EPs that shaped the sound of the decade. His dynamic DJ sets, known for their energetic mixing and track selection, made him a fixture at major clubs and festivals across Europe and beyond. Artists operating in a similar sphere of driving, functional techno from the Netherlands include Secret Cinema, a longtime collaborator who shares a focus on powerful dancefloor narratives. Joris Voorn represents another facet of Dutch techno, blending melodic sophistication with rhythmic punch. The sound of Speedy J explores the experimental and industrial edges of the genre, while Joran Van Pol continues the legacy of crisp, modern techno production. The music of 2000 and One maintains a strong presence on dedicated electronic music radio stations, particularly those specializing in techno, tech-house, and underground club sounds. His classic anthems and newer productions are staples in mixes and playlists aimed at the global dance music community.

Listeners can explore the driving techno sound of 2000 and One through the curated electronic music stations featured on onairium.com, where his influential tracks remain in regular rotation for fans of pure club energy.