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What is considered typical Dutch music?

The Netherlands is home to a rich and diverse music scene, with a variety of genres that capture the spirit and culture of the country. From the globally acclaimed artists of the dance and electronic music world to the deeply emotional levenslied (life songs) and smartlappen, Dutch music offers something for every taste. Let’s dive into what defines typical Dutch music and explore some of its most iconic genres.

Dance Music: The Global Influence of Dutch DJs

When you think of Dutch music, it’s hard not to immediately think of the country’s dominance in the world of electronic dance music (EDM). Internationally renowned DJs like Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, Hardwell, Afrojack, and Ferry Corsten have made the Netherlands a powerhouse in the electronic music scene. These artists have achieved global fame, playing at festivals and clubs all over the world, and their influence on dance music is undeniable. The Dutch have earned a reputation for producing some of the best electronic beats, shaping global music trends for decades.

Levenslied (Life Songs): Sentimentality and Real-Life Stories

On the more traditional side, Dutch music also embraces heartfelt songs that tell the stories of everyday life. The levenslied, or “life song,” is a genre that reflects the ups and downs of real life. These songs typically have a moral and often evoke a sentimental, melodramatic feeling. They are deeply emotional and speak to themes of love, loss, and personal struggles.

The origins of the levenslied can be traced back to the 1950s, when one of the country’s most influential talent scouts, Johnny Hoes, discovered many of the genre’s future stars in the Amsterdam Jordaan district. The Jordaan became synonymous with levenslied, and many of the songs written during this period often referenced the neighborhood.

In the 1980s, André Hazes became a household name in the Netherlands, bringing levenslied to a wider audience with his powerful, emotional voice. His popularity paved the way for artists like Frans Bauer, who continued the tradition of levenslied in the 90s. Despite a lack of mainstream support from radio stations, which often ignored Dutch-language music, levenslied found a home on pirate radio stations and smaller channels. In recent years, however, the genre has enjoyed a resurgence, with radio stations like 100% NL dedicating airtime to Dutch-language music.

Smartlap: The Sentimental Heart of Dutch Music

Similar to the levenslied, the smartlap is another genre that revolves around the themes of love, loss, and heartache. The key difference is that smartlappen tend to follow a more structured narrative, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. The genre’s name comes from an analogy to the German words Schmachtlappen (swoon) and Schmachtfetzen (sentimental song), reflecting its melodramatic and often tear-jerking themes.

The smartlap became particularly popular in the 1960s, with the “Queen of the Smartlap” leading the charge. Although her music was not universally loved, it found a devoted following. The genre has continued to evolve and remains an important part of Dutch music culture today, beloved for its emotional depth and ability to capture the rawness of real-life experiences.

A Rich Musical Landscape

While Dutch music may be most famous for its contributions to the global dance music scene, it is equally defined by its emotional and heartfelt genres like levenslied and smartlap. These songs reflect the soul of Dutch culture, celebrating the simple joys and complex struggles of everyday life. Whether you’re listening to an uplifting electronic beat or a heart-wrenching levenslied, the Netherlands offers a rich and diverse musical heritage that continues to thrive and inspire.