What is Hardstyle?
Hardstyle is a subgenre of electronic dance music (EDM) that originated in the late 1990s, predominantly in the Netherlands. It combines elements from various styles such as hardcore techno, house, and trance. Characterized by its heavy bass, distorted kick drums, and melodic synthesizer riffs, hardstyle is known for its energetic and euphoric sound.
Musical Characteristics
Typically, hardstyle tracks have a tempo ranging between 140 and 150 beats per minute (BPM). The structure commonly includes an intro, build-up, climax, and outro. It's common for hardstyle music to incorporate both vocal samples and instrumental elements, creating a unique blend that appeals to a diverse audience.
Subgenres
Over the years, hardstyle has evolved, giving rise to various subgenres such as Raw Hardstyle, which features harder kicks and darker themes, and euphoric hardstyle, characterized by uplifting melodies and emotional lyrics. These subgenres cater to different audiences and showcase the versatility of hardstyle music.
Cultural Impact
Hardstyle has gained global popularity, particularly within the rave and festival circuit. Events like Defqon.1 and Qlimax celebrate this genre, attracting thousands of fans every year. The community surrounding hardstyle is known for its enthusiasm and camaraderie, with fans often sharing a deep passion for the music and culture.