The Netherlands is one of the countries where street music is especially well developed.
I think many people in Japan know that musicians from all over the world head to Dutch streets to earn money.
That said, while it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call the Netherlands a country of music, there probably aren’t many people who are familiar with its music scene.
Dutch pop music is very diverse, with a wide range of works! Each piece is full of personality, so if you like distinctive melodies, be sure to check it out!
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Dutch Music | Introducing the Latest Tracks and Timeless Classics! (1–10)
MooiMarco Borsato
The Netherlands is a country where English is spoken as an official language, and even across Europe it’s known for its particularly native-like English.
This culture influences music as well, and the Dutch music scene is very similar to those of the United States and the United Kingdom.
As a result, there are many catchy works in the scene.
One such catchy Dutch classic is “Mooi.” It’s a striking piece featuring a soothing track and soft vocals that make use of falsetto.
Back It UpCara Emerald
The work I especially want to recommend is Back It Up.
This song belongs to the genre of electro swing, created in the 1990s by music producer Parov Stelar, and it has gained immense popularity, particularly in Europe.
The singer, Caro Emerald, is known worldwide as a leading figure in electro swing, so many of you may already be familiar with her.
It’s a very stylish and contemporary take on jazz, making it a piece I’d also recommend to younger listeners!
WavesMr Probz
Mr.
Probz is a Dutch artist known for doing it all—singer-songwriter, music producer, rapper, and more.
He’s one of the Dutch artists active on the global stage and often appears near the top of charts in English-speaking countries.
Among his works, the one I especially recommend is “Waves.” Its tropical house-like production, incorporating acoustic sounds, is particularly striking.
Be sure to check it out.
When The Lady SmilesGolden Earring
Golden Earring is a Dutch rock band formed in 1961.
After gaining popularity in the 1960s, they continued to release a steady stream of hit songs, and their popularity remains strong today.
The band’s appeal lies in their melodies, which are catchy yet crafted with a hard rock edge.
They’ve also explored a variety of styles, including progressive rock and psychedelic rock, so be sure to check them out.
LevenMaan
Maan is a female singer who won season 6 of The Voice’s Dutch edition, part of the globally produced audition program, and has since gained popularity in the Netherlands.
She is now active as an actress as well, earning strong support from younger audiences.
One of her signature songs is Leven.
Sung in Dutch, it features a melody centered on synth-pop, a trend of the 2020s.
She’s also easy on the eyes, so you can enjoy her both visually and aurally!
Still On Your SideRene Froger
René Froger is a national singer-songwriter representing the Netherlands.
He’s a male singer-songwriter known for ballads, and his husky voice earned him popularity.
His song “Still On Your Side” is among his most popular works; this catchy pop ballad also found an audience in the English-speaking world.
Its musical style is reminiscent of 1980s REO Speedwagon, and I think it’s the kind of song that lifts your spirits.
If you enjoy music from that era, be sure to check it out.
Who’s That Lady With My ManPatricia Paay
Patricia Paay is a Dutch artist with a career spanning over 40 years.
She has balanced work as both an artist and a model, and is known as a model for the Dutch edition of Playboy.
One of her classic hits is “Who’s That Lady With My Man.” It became a worldwide hit, and depending on the generation, many people in Japan may be familiar with it.
Its melodic development is similar to Japanese kayōkyoku (popular songs), so many listeners may find it especially approachable.