Hardstyle: What is Hardstyle?
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Hardstyle is a subgenre of electronic music that emerged in the Netherlands in the early 2000s. Known for its fast beats, hard bass and high-energy sound, hardstyle has gained huge popularity and is now played on the biggest stages in the world.
One of the defining characteristics of hardstyle is the use of a "reverse bass" kick. This kick has a deep, bass-heavy sound designed to create power and energy. Beats in hardstyle typically sit between 150 and 160 BPM, which makes it one of the faster genres of EDM.
Another feature of hardstyle is its melodic element. Many hardstyle tracks use a synth melody that contrasts with the hard bass, creating a dynamic and moving sound. That combination is what turned hardstyle into one of the most popular genres among electronic music fans.
Hardstyle has its roots in the hard dance and hardcore scene in the Netherlands, but it has branched into many subgenres over the years. One of the most popular is rawstyle, defined by its harder, more aggressive sound. Another is euphoric hardstyle, which wins fans over with beautiful melodies and feel-good vibes. It gets faster still with hardcore and uptempo.
Some of the best-known hardstyle DJs are Headhunterz, Brennan Heart, Wildstylez, Da Tweekaz and D-Block & S-te-fan – and there are plenty more.
The genre has also grown well beyond the hardstyle festivals. Some of the biggest DJs in the world now play hardstyle at major EDM festivals – Timmy Trumpet and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike among them – and have produced hardstyle tracks of their own.
Worldwide, the hardstyle scene is represented by huge festivals, events and labels. Popular ones include Defqon.1 in the Netherlands, Syndicate in Germany and Reverze in Belgium. These festivals draw five- and six-figure crowds from all over the world. You'll find what's coming up in our festival calendar.
Hardstyle is a genre that keeps evolving and pushing boundaries. With the atmosphere at the festivals and the passion of the fans, it's no wonder it became one of the most loved genres in electronic music. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just want to experience a festival once – trust us, it's worth it.
Wear what you listen to
Our Hardstyle Collection has hoodies, oversized shirts, shirts, beanies and belt bags. Every piece is printed or embroidered for you at our production partner in Cologne only after you order – no overproduction, no warehouse stock.
