Contributing Writer
House music icon Armand Van Helden joins forces with rising UK talent Raphi and George Reid (of AlunaGeorge) on new single ‘This Ain’t Love’, via Spinnin’ Records.
Armand van Helden links with Raphi and George Reid for a production that captures a house aesthetic. This record leans into the sampling culture of the nineties with bright melodies and soul-drenched vocals. The collaboration sees Armand, Raphi, and George Reid combine their individual production styles to build a cohesive groove that merges classic sampling with a modern production. It is a feel-good anthem driven by sharp percussion and infectious rhythms.
Already receiving a strong reaction in Armand Van Helden’s DJ sets, ‘This Ain’t Love’ arrives as a seamless meeting point between generations – pairing Armand’s unmistakable house legacy with Raphi’s fast-rising profile and George Reid’s forward-thinking production touch.
A true pioneer of global house music, Armand Van Helden has shaped the sound of dance floors for over three decades. From early Strictly Rhythm releases to era-defining hits like ‘U Don’t Know Me’ and ‘My My My’, through to his chart-dominating Duck Sauce project, his influence continues to resonate across club culture worldwide.
For Raphi, the release marks another major step in what is shaping up to be a breakthrough year. The Cyprus-born, UK-raised DJ/producer has quickly built momentum with a string of high-energy releases and collaborations, earning support from BBC Radio 1, KISS FM, and key tastemakers including Danny Howard, Jeremiah Asiamah, Majestic and TCTS. Her growing reputation has also seen her take to some of the world’s most iconic stages, including Creamfields, Hï Ibiza and Printworks.
Completing the collaboration is George Reid, best known as the production force behind AlunaGeorge. Renowned for his genre-blurring approach – fusing UK garage, R&B and electronic elements – Reid brings a refined, future-facing edge to the track, adding depth to its nostalgic core.
With its blend of classic house sensibilities and contemporary production, ‘This Ain’t Love’ lands as a natural crossover moment. Equally primed for club floors and wider radio support, and a testament to the power of collaboration across generations of electronic music.