What is hardstyle?

Hardstyle is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in the early 2000s in the Netherlands. It is known for its intense, driving beats and energetic melodies, often incorporating distorted kick drums and heavy basslines.

Hardstyle is typically played at a tempo of around 150-160 beats per minute and often features a distinctive reverse bass sound. It is popular at festivals and raves, and has a dedicated fan base around the world.

Some of the key characteristics of hardstyle include its emphasis on hard, repetitive beats, dramatic build-ups and drops, and a focus on high-energy, aggressive sounds. The genre has evolved over the years, incorporating elements from other electronic music genres such as trance, techno, and hardcore.

Hardstyle artists often perform at large events and festivals, such as Defqon.1, Qlimax, and Hard Bass, where the music is accompanied by elaborate light shows, stage designs, and pyrotechnics. Popular hardstyle artists include Headhunterz, Wildstylez, Brennan Heart, and Frontliner.