The moniker "Unicorn Slayer" identifies Markus Schulz within the trance community, a title originating from a fan tweet that gained traction due to his preference for square waves and pitch bends over softer melodies. Born in 1975 in Eschwege, Germany, the musician established a career as a composer, record producer, and club DJ while based in Miami, Florida.
Early Development and Radio Presence
Schulz attended Leominster High School before developing his foundational performance style during a seven-year residency at The Works in Scottsdale, Arizona. He serves as the founder of both Coldharbour Recordings and the management firm Schulz Music Group. His career gained significant reach through the weekly Global DJ Broadcast, which syndicates across online platforms including ah.fm and Digitally Imported.
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Beyond his solo discography, which includes albums such as Without You Near, Scream, and The Rabbit Hole Circus, Schulz operates under the alias Dakota to release work like The Nine Skies and Odyssey to the Netherworld. In 2013, he partnered with Ferry Corsten to form the EDM group New World Punx, debuting at Madison Square Garden. His remix portfolio includes work for Depeche Mode, Madonna, Jewel, and Fatboy Slim.
Live Performances and Industry Recognition
Schulz maintains an active global touring schedule, appearing at festivals such as Electric Daisy Carnival, Ultra Music Festival, and Creamfields. In 2010, DJ Magazine ranked him 8th in their annual Top 100 poll. By September 2012, DJ Times officially crowned him the number one DJ in America. His touring history includes the North American Scream Tour and appearances on various episodes of A State of Trance.
Fast facts
- Born: 1975, Eschwege, Germany
- Education: Leominster High School
- Known as: Unicorn Slayer
- First marriage: Heather Pfeifer (1993–2015)
- Second marriage: Adina Butar (2019)
- Notable project: New World Punx
- Key record label: Coldharbour Recordings
- Primary residence: Miami, Florida
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the nickname Unicorn Slayer?
It stems from a tweet describing him as the unicorn slayer of trance because he avoids light, upbeat melodies in favor of square waves and pitch bends.
Which record labels has he founded?
He is the founder of Coldharbour Recordings and the artist management company Schulz Music Group.
Achievements
- Genres: trance, electronic music and progressive trance
