Robert Miles
Musician Robert Miles passed away at age 47 Salim Lamrani

Musician Robert Miles (real name Robert Concina) has died at the age of 47. The Swiss-born star – best known for his 1995 hit Children – passed away from an undisclosed illness, according to DJ Mag Italia.

As a DJ, Miles enjoyed success across the world when his iconic floor-filler reached number one in 12 countries. He eventually moved on to more experimental sounds and set up Open Lab, a Balearic radio station.

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Longtime friend Joe T Vannelli said: "The tragic news of the death of a very talented artist of our time, makes me incredulous and upset.

"I will miss the fights, brawls, criticism, judgements but especially your talent in finding sounds and melodies unparalleled."

Tributes to the DJ poured in via social media, with Pete Tong writing on Twitter: "Sad to hear Robert Miles passing r.i.p thanks for the music #deconstruction#classichouse."

Producer Chris Lake added: "RIP Robert Miles. 'Children' was the first dance song I fell in love with in 1996. I will forever be grateful for your music, thank you." DJ Adaro wrote: "RIP dreamhouse legend Robert Miles, way too young!"

Miles was born in the Swiss town of Fleurier in 1969, but his family relocated to Italy when he was young. He grew up in the small town of Fagagna, located near Venice, and he is thought to have discovered his love of music thanks to the family piano and a pair of turntables.

The star pursued a career in electronic engineering before leaving school at 17 and dedicating his life to music production, setting up a pirate radio station while also performing live shows.

While he is best known for the track Children, his biggest commercial hit was the 1996 single Dreamland. He was awarded the Best International Male Newcomer award at the 1997 BRITs, before setting up his radio station in 2013.