Trance icons Cosmic Gate have split after nearly three decades, following Bossi’s decision to step away from touring.
Pure trance magic occurred when Claus Terhoeven, aka Nic Chagall, and Stefan Bossems, aka DJ Bossi, first joined forces in 1999 to launch a new project: Cosmic Gate. Since then, the two German artists have been inseparable, taking the stage at nightclubs and festivals across the planet while releasing jaw-dropping tunes and earning Grammy nominations along the way. But today, after 27 years of being a duo, they’ve announced that they’re officially splitting up.
In a joint statement on Instagram, Cosmic Gate announced that Bossi would be stepping away from touring, meaning he would also be leaving the project entirely. The news arrived as a surprise to many in the scene, and there was no stated reason for his departure from the group, only that it was mutual.
“This decision comes with deep respect, gratitude, and friendship,” the duo said. “What we built together, side by side, and had the privilege to share with all of you around the world is something truly rare and beautiful, something we are most proud of.”
The past three decades have seen Cosmic Gate evolve from being a fresh trance duo on the scene to one of the biggest acts on the planet. Iconic tunes like “Exploration of Space” and “Fire Wire,” both released in 2001, have stood the test of time. Other notable tracks released by Cosmic Gate include “The Drums,” “Be Your Sound” with Emma Hewitt, and their remix of John O’Callaghan’s “Find Yourself,” while albums like Materia and MOSAIIK have helped define their more recent, progressive house-forward style.
A slice of the impact of Cosmic Gate’s legacy can be seen in the responses from other artists, who shared their well-wishes for Bossi and their excitement for where Nic would be taking the project in the future. Hardwell, John 00 Fleming, Gabriel & Dresden, John O’Callaghan, Showtek, Ruben de Ronde, Tony McGuinness (of Above & Beyond), ilan Bluestone, and Sarah de Warren are among those who have chimed in on the post so far.
“You were one of the acts that made me believe this was possible,” ilan Bluestone penned in his comment. “What you built inspired so many of us.”
Nic will continue to carry the torch solo into the future, with it being framed as a “new era” for Cosmic Gate. According to the statement, there’s new music in motion that will help showcase that. The first look at what upcoming Cosmic Gate shows will be like will be seen in Manchester and at A State of Trance in Rotterdam this weekend, with more shows planned on the horizon. Stay tuned for more as Nic takes the reins by following Cosmic Gate on social media.
Read the full statement from Cosmic Gate:
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