The 1995 release of "Children" propelled an Italian composer into global recognition, topping charts worldwide with a trance melody designed to encourage safer driving after rave events. This single, which eventually sold over five million copies, solidified a career that spanned two decades of electronic music production, radio innovation, and experimental collaboration.
Formative Years and Early Career
Born Roberto Concina in 1969 in Fleurier, Switzerland, he moved with his family to Fagagna, Italy, during his youth. He developed piano proficiency early, beginning his engagement with the regional music scene in 1984. By 1990, he utilized personal savings to establish both a recording studio and a pirate radio operation. Before adopting the name Robert Miles, he performed professionally as Roberto Milani.
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The debut album, Dreamland, arrived in 1996 following the immense success of his breakthrough single. This collection integrated piano-led trance with chill-out elements. The album featured "One and One," a popular cover track with British vocalist Maria Nayler. His commercial performance garnered a 1997 BRIT Award for International Breakthrough Act and a World Music Award for best-selling newcomer.
Artistic Evolution and Independent Ventures
Moving away from major labels, he founded the independent S:alt Records in 2001. This label hosted his third studio album, Organik, which incorporated contributions from artists such as Nitin Sawhney and Trilok Gurtu. He continued exploring diverse genres throughout the 2000s, including jazz-infused projects and, by 2011, the alternative rock elements found in his album Thirteen.
Media Innovation and Final Years
Beyond composition, he engaged with broadcasting technology by launching the alternative radio station Open Lab in Ibiza. He also provided soundtrack work for the 2012 documentary film The Turn of THIS Century. On 9 May 2017, he died from metastatic cancer in Ibiza at the age of 47.
Fast facts
- Born: 1969, Fleurier
- Died: 2017, Ibiza
- Citizenship: Italy
- Primary Occupations: Composer, DJ, record producer
- Major Hit: "Children" (1995)
- Debut Album: Dreamland (1996)
- Independent Label: S:alt Records
- BRIT Award: International Breakthrough Act (1997)
Questions readers ask
Why was the song "Children" created?
It was intended to soothe rave attendees and encourage them to drive home safely, following a series of fatal car accidents in Italy.
What happened to the Open Lab radio station after his death?
The station was briefly suspended before returning in 2019, resuming operations both as a live stream and on 106.4 FM in Ibiza.
Achievements
- Worked as disc jockey, composer and record producer
