Category:Hardstyle

Hardstyle is a subgenre of electronic dance music that emerged in the early 2000s, blending elements of hard trance, hardcore, and techno. It is characterized by powerful kick drums, reverse basslines, and euphoric or dark melodic elements, making it a staple of festivals and large-scale raves.

Characteristics

• Hard-hitting kick drums and reverse bass, creating a pounding rhythm.
• Melodic and anthemic synth leads, often building into euphoric climaxes.
• Typical BPM range between 140-160 BPM, slower than hardcore but still energetic.
• Use of pitch-shifted kicks, giving the genre a signature "bouncy" sound.
• Influence from hard trance and hardcore, blending uplifting melodies with aggressive beats.

Artists and Labels

Hardstyle has been championed by various artists and labels, including:

• Scantraxx
• Dirty Workz
• Q-Dance

Notable artists in the genre include:

• Headhunterz
• Noisecontrollers
• Brennan Heart
• Wildstylez
• Showtek (early works)
• Da Tweekaz