Robbert van de Corput, known professionally as Hardwell, was voted the world’s number one DJ by DJ Mag in 2013 and again in 2014. This Dutch DJ and producer from Breda has crafted an extraordinary career spanning over a decade, evolving from big room house pioneer to techno innovator. From his breakout hits like “Spaceman” to his latest techno-inspired releases, Hardwell’s discography represents a masterclass in electronic dance music production and performance artistry.
The journey through Hardwell’s essential tracks tells the story of electronic music’s evolution itself. His ability to consistently deliver festival anthems while pushing creative boundaries has solidified his position as one of the most influential figures in modern EDM. Whether you’re discovering his music through premium headphones or exploring new songs, these 25 tracks showcase the very best of Hardwell’s musical legacy.
Spaceman
“Spaceman” stands as arguably Hardwell’s most iconic creation, released for digital download on 23 January 2012. This instrumental masterpiece became the blueprint for big room house music, featuring massive synth leads and euphoric breakdowns that defined an entire generation of festival anthems. The track sold over half a million copies in the US and was played extensively in clubs and festivals throughout 2012, helping to popularize the big room house genre.
The production showcases Hardwell’s exceptional ability to craft tension and release through expertly designed builds and drops. Its timeless appeal lies in the perfect balance between melodic sophistication and raw dancefloor energy, making it equally effective in intimate club settings and massive festival stages. The track’s influence on contemporary EDM cannot be overstated, as countless producers have drawn inspiration from its structural perfection.
Call Me A Spaceman (feat. Mitch Crown)
Following the success of the instrumental version, “Call Me A Spaceman” featuring vocals by Dutch singer Mitch Crown was released on 18 May 2012. This vocal interpretation transformed the already-powerful original into an emotionally resonant anthem that connected with audiences on a deeper level. The vocal version charted in the Dutch Single Top 100 and US Billboard Hot Dance/Electronic Songs, proving that Hardwell’s vision could successfully bridge underground credibility with mainstream appeal.
Mitch Crown’s ethereal vocals perfectly complement the track’s cosmic theme, creating a sense of otherworldly transcendence that elevates the dancefloor experience. The collaboration demonstrated Hardwell’s understanding of how vocals can enhance rather than overshadow instrumental excellence. This version became a staple of his live performances, often serving as a emotional climax during his festival sets.
Apollo (feat. Amba Shepherd)
With wild melodies running along with the beautiful voice of Amba Shepherd, “Apollo” became an instant fan favorite. Released in 2013, this track perfectly encapsulates Hardwell’s ability to blend progressive house sensibilities with big room energy. This Hardwell record has also ended up as a frequently used acapella in many of the Hardwell sets to date, showcasing its enduring popularity and versatility.
The production features intricate layering that builds from subtle beginnings to explosive crescendos, while Amba Shepherd’s powerful vocals provide both vulnerability and strength. The track’s mythological title reflects its larger-than-life sound design, incorporating cinematic elements that transport listeners beyond the confines of traditional dance music. Its lasting impact on Hardwell’s catalog is evidenced by its continued presence in his contemporary performances.
Young Again (feat. Chris Jones)
“Young Again” was released as the lead single from Hardwell’s debut album “United We Are” on 17 October 2014. This anthemic collaboration with Chris Jones represents a perfect fusion of EDM’s festival energy with rock-inspired vocal delivery and emotional depth. The song reached number 23 on the Single Top 100 chart in the Netherlands and entered the tipparade of the Belgian Singles Chart, while also charting in Austria.
The track’s nostalgic themes resonate with listeners who experience the universal desire to recapture youthful energy and optimism. Chris Jones delivers vocals that soar above Hardwell’s meticulously crafted production, creating moments of pure euphoria that define the festival experience. The song’s structure builds from intimate verses to explosive choruses, demonstrating Hardwell’s mastery of dynamic songwriting that keeps audiences engaged throughout its duration.
Echo (feat. Jonathan Mendelsohn)
Featured on the “United We Are” album, “Echo” showcases Hardwell’s ability to craft emotionally sophisticated dance music that transcends typical genre boundaries. Jonathan Mendelsohn’s haunting vocals create an atmospheric foundation that allows Hardwell’s production to explore deeper emotional territories while maintaining dancefloor effectiveness. The track’s layered arrangement builds from subtle atmospheric beginnings to powerful climactic moments that demonstrate advanced production techniques.
The collaboration represents a perfect marriage of Mendelsohn’s songwriting expertise and Hardwell’s electronic mastery, resulting in a track that functions equally well as passive listening and active dancing. Its sophisticated harmonic progressions and carefully crafted sound design elements showcase the artistic growth that defined Hardwell’s album-oriented approach. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke genuine emotional responses while delivering the energy expected from peak-time dance music.
Arcadia (feat. Luciana)
Laced with Hardwell’s signature big room sounds and Luciana’s infectious vocals, “Arcadia” most certainly became the sound of 2014. This collaboration with Joey Dale represents the peak of Hardwell’s big room house era, combining festival-ready production with pop sensibilities that broadened his audience appeal. The music video features scenes inspired by the famed Mad Hatter’s Tea Party scene in C.S Lewis classic novel “Alice In Wonderland”, adding visual storytelling that enhances the track’s fantastical themes.
Luciana’s dynamic vocal performance brings both power and playfulness to the production, creating memorable hooks that stick with listeners long after the music stops. The track’s production showcases Hardwell’s mastery of big room house elements, from perfectly timed builds to explosive drops that maximize dancefloor impact. Its commercial success demonstrated how electronic music could maintain underground credibility while achieving mainstream recognition.
Run Wild (feat. Jake Reese)
This big room/electro house record made in collaboration with singer/songwriter Jake Reese is one of the biggest summer tunes back in the golden era of Electronic Dance Music. The track embodies the freedom and energy that defined EDM’s mainstream breakthrough, combining Hardwell’s festival-tested production skills with Jake Reese’s anthemic songwriting. The music video also features former Formula One racer Carmen Jorda, adding high-octane visual elements that complement the track’s adrenaline-fueled energy.
Jake Reese’s vocals capture the spirit of adventure and liberation that resonates with festival audiences seeking transcendent experiences through music. The production features Hardwell’s signature blend of melodic sophistication and raw power, creating a track that works equally well in massive festival settings and intimate listening environments. Its enduring popularity demonstrates how effectively Hardwell captured the zeitgeist of EDM’s golden era.
Dare You (feat. Matthew Koma)
Released at the end of 2013 with American singer Matthew Koma, “Dare You” followed the success of “Apollo”. This collaboration showcases Hardwell’s ability to work with diverse vocal talents while maintaining his distinctive production style that balances accessibility with underground credibility. Matthew Koma’s emotionally charged vocals bring depth and vulnerability to Hardwell’s euphoric production framework.
The track’s themes of courage and determination resonate with audiences facing personal challenges, making it more than just dancefloor entertainment. Hardwell’s production creates space for Koma’s vocals to breathe while building tension through carefully orchestrated arrangements that culminate in explosive releases. The collaboration demonstrated how electronic music could address meaningful themes without sacrificing the energy and excitement that define the genre.
Countdown (feat. MAKJ)
“Countdown” was a collaboration with American DJ MAKJ that adapted to the growing big room house fanbase, helping Hardwell reach the German single-charts once again. This track represents the international expansion of Hardwell’s sound, combining his European sensibilities with American production influences to create something uniquely powerful. The collaboration showcased how different regional approaches to electronic music could merge into cohesive artistic statements.
MAKJ’s contribution brings additional energy and festival experience to the production, creating a track designed specifically for peak-time festival moments. The production features relentless builds and massive drops that exemplify big room house at its most effective, while maintaining the melodic sophistication that distinguishes Hardwell’s work. Its chart success demonstrated the global appeal of properly executed big room house music.
Jumper (feat. W&W)
In the summer of 2013, the single “Jumper” appeared in collaboration with the DJ duo W&W, representing the biggest club-hit of the whole year together with Martin Garrix’ “Animals” and DVBBS’ “Tsunami”. This collaboration brought together two of the biggest names in big room house, creating a festival anthem that defined the summer of 2013. The track’s success demonstrated how strategic collaborations could amplify the impact of already-successful artists.
W&W’s contribution adds their signature melodic sensibilities to Hardwell’s production framework, creating a track that balances both artists’ strengths without compromising either vision. The production features massive builds and explosive drops that exemplify big room house at its peak, while incorporating enough melodic sophistication to maintain replay value. Its status as one of the year’s biggest club hits reflects the perfect timing and execution that characterized Hardwell’s peak commercial period.
Zero 76 (feat. Tiësto)
In 2011 he released one of his biggest tracks “Zero 76”, which was a collaborative process with one of his biggest musical inspirations, Tiësto. This collaboration represents a pivotal moment in Hardwell’s career, working alongside one of electronic music’s most influential figures while developing his own distinctive sound. The song went on to top the charts of Beatport and the American iTunes Dance chart, establishing Hardwell as a serious contender in the global electronic music scene.
Working with Tiësto provided Hardwell with invaluable experience in crafting progressive house music that could work across diverse audiences and venues. The track’s success demonstrated how newer artists could collaborate with established legends while maintaining their own artistic identity. Its chart performance proved that Hardwell’s vision had commercial viability beyond the underground scene where he first developed his reputation.
Shine A Light (feat. KiFi) [with Wildstylez]
This floor destroying hardstyle record was one of the first Hardwell collaborations in the hard dance scene, representing one of the handful hardstyle tunes that Hardwell has ever graced his fans with. The collaboration with Wildstylez demonstrated Hardwell’s willingness to explore different electronic music genres while maintaining his distinctive approach to melody and arrangement. With a soothing yet energetic melody and a thumping bassline, the track makes a solid festival banger.
KiFi’s vocals provide emotional depth that balances the track’s harder elements, creating accessibility within the typically aggressive hardstyle framework. The production showcases how Hardwell’s melodic sensibilities could enhance rather than dilute hardstyle’s intensity, creating a bridge between different electronic music communities. Its success opened doors for further genre exploration in Hardwell’s later career developments.
Eclipse
“Eclipse” is described as dark and mysterious, churning in space like a dubstep version of the Alien ship Nostromo. This track from the “United We Are” album showcases Hardwell’s ability to create atmospheric electronic music that transcends typical dancefloor expectations. The production demonstrates advanced sound design techniques that create immersive listening experiences while maintaining the energy necessary for live performance contexts.
The track’s cinematic qualities demonstrate Hardwell’s growing sophistication as a producer, incorporating film score elements into electronic music frameworks. Its darker aesthetic provides contrast within his catalog, showing artistic range that extends beyond his big room house origins. The production’s spatial qualities and dynamic arrangements showcase technical skills that position Hardwell among electronic music’s most accomplished producers.
Follow Me (feat. Jason Derulo)
“Follow Me,” with Jason Derulo, splits the difference between a Katy Perry mega-hit and a Coldplay remix and winds up the album’s key cut. This collaboration represents Hardwell’s most successful crossover attempt, bringing together mainstream pop appeal with electronic music sophistication. Jason Derulo’s star power and vocal abilities provided access to audiences beyond electronic music’s traditional boundaries.
The production demonstrates how electronic music elements can enhance pop songwriting without overwhelming the vocal performances that drive mainstream success. Hardwell’s arrangement skills create space for Derulo’s vocals while building dynamic tension through carefully orchestrated builds and releases. The track’s commercial success proved that electronic music producers could successfully collaborate with pop stars while maintaining artistic integrity.
United We Are (feat. KSHMR)
The album’s title track represents the culmination of Hardwell’s artistic vision for his debut long-player, combining his signature sound with collaborative elements that enhance rather than dilute his distinctive approach. The title cut snaps with that patented Hardwell snare drum sound, which suggests that the genre of “big room house” is really EDM mixing with trap. The collaboration with KSHMR brought additional melodic sophistication and cultural influences that broadened the track’s appeal.
KSHMR’s contribution adds orchestral elements and world music influences that create unique sonic textures within Hardwell’s electronic framework. The production showcases how two distinctive artists can collaborate while maintaining their individual identities, creating something greater than the sum of its parts. The track serves as a perfect representation of Hardwell’s artistic maturity and his ability to create cohesive album experiences.
Don’t Stop The Madness (feat. Fatman Scoop)
This high-energy collaboration demonstrates Hardwell’s ability to work with hip-hop influences while maintaining his electronic music foundation. Fatman Scoop’s commanding vocal presence brings party energy that perfectly complements Hardwell’s festival-ready production style. The track showcases how electronic music can successfully incorporate hip-hop elements without losing its essential character or dancefloor effectiveness.
The production features relentless energy and massive drops designed specifically for peak-time festival moments when crowds demand maximum intensity. Fatman Scoop’s vocal contributions add call-and-response elements that enhance live performance dynamics, creating opportunities for audience participation that extend beyond passive listening. The collaboration demonstrates Hardwell’s understanding of how different musical genres can enhance rather than compromise electronic music’s power.
Being Alive (feat. JGUAR)
Released on 4 January 2019, “Being Alive” features vocals from JGUAR and is a follow-up to his 2012 song “Apollo”. This track represents Hardwell’s artistic evolution during his hiatus period, showcasing more mature songwriting and production techniques that reflect personal growth and changing musical perspectives. JGUAR’s vocals bring emotional depth that demonstrates how Hardwell’s collaborations had become more sophisticated over time.
The production showcases refined arrangement skills and sound design techniques that reflect years of experience and artistic development. Its connection to “Apollo” demonstrates how Hardwell could revisit earlier themes while presenting them through evolved artistic perspectives. The track’s emotional resonance and technical sophistication position it among his most mature creative achievements.
Mad World (feat. Jake Reese)
This collaboration represents Hardwell’s exploration of darker emotional territories while maintaining the energy and accessibility that define his most successful work. Jake Reese’s powerful vocals bring emotional weight that balances the track’s intense production elements, creating dynamic tension that keeps listeners engaged throughout its duration. The track demonstrates how electronic music can address serious themes without sacrificing dancefloor effectiveness.
The production features sophisticated arrangement techniques that create space for emotional development while building toward explosive climactic moments. Its thematic depth and technical execution showcase Hardwell’s artistic maturity and his ability to create meaningful music within electronic frameworks. The collaboration demonstrates how consistent working relationships between artists can produce increasingly sophisticated results over time.
Power
“Power” represents Hardwell’s ability to create motivational anthems that transcend typical dance music expectations, combining inspirational themes with production techniques designed for maximum impact. The track’s uplifting energy and triumphant melodies create emotional responses that extend beyond simple dancefloor entertainment. Its production showcases advanced sound design and arrangement skills that demonstrate technical mastery.
The track’s structure builds from subtle beginnings to overwhelming climaxes that create cathartic emotional releases for listeners and dancers alike. Its themes of empowerment and determination resonate with audiences seeking music that inspires as well as entertains. The production demonstrates how electronic music can address meaningful concepts while maintaining the energy and excitement that define successful dance music.
Thinking About You (feat. Jay Sean)
This collaboration brings together Hardwell’s electronic expertise with Jay Sean’s R&B sensibilities, creating a unique fusion that broadened both artists’ appeal. Jay Sean’s smooth vocal delivery provides emotional depth that complements Hardwell’s sophisticated production without overwhelming the electronic elements that define his signature sound. The track demonstrates successful genre-blending that maintains authenticity from both artistic perspectives.
The production showcases how electronic music can enhance R&B songwriting through careful arrangement and sound design that supports rather than competes with vocal performances. The collaboration’s success demonstrates how strategic partnerships can introduce artists to new audiences while maintaining core artistic identities. Its lasting appeal reflects successful execution of cross-genre collaboration.
Rave Till My Grave (feat. Villain)
Released in 2025, “Rave Till My Grave” featuring Villain represents Hardwell’s latest creative direction. This recent track showcases his evolution toward harder, more aggressive sounds while maintaining the melodic sophistication that has always characterized his best work. Villain’s vocal contribution adds contemporary energy that connects with current electronic music trends while respecting Hardwell’s established artistic vision.
The production demonstrates how Hardwell has adapted his sound to contemporary electronic music landscapes while maintaining the essential elements that made him successful. Its release timing reflects his continued relevance in rapidly evolving electronic music scenes. The track serves as evidence that established artists can successfully evolve their sound without losing their distinctive artistic identity.
Hideaway (feat. JAiMES) [with Atmozfears]
Released in 2025, “Hideaway” represents a collaboration between Hardwell and Atmozfears featuring JAiMES. This recent track showcases Hardwell’s continued exploration of harder electronic music styles while collaborating with artists from different electronic music communities. JAiMES’s vocal contribution provides emotional balance that complements the track’s intense production elements.
The collaboration with Atmozfears demonstrates how Hardwell continues to seek new creative partnerships that challenge his artistic boundaries while respecting his established reputation. The production showcases technical advancement and creative growth that reflect ongoing artistic development. Its contemporary relevance demonstrates how established artists can maintain career momentum through strategic collaborations and sound evolution.
Brace For Impact (feat. Lil Jon) [with Sub Zero Project]
This 2025 collaboration with Sub Zero Project featuring Lil Jon represents Hardwell’s boldest crossover attempt in recent years. The track combines hardstyle elements with hip-hop influences through Sub Zero Project’s hard dance expertise and Lil Jon’s commanding vocal presence. The collaboration demonstrates how electronic music can successfully incorporate diverse influences without losing essential character or energy.
Lil Jon’s contribution brings party energy and vocal power that perfectly complements the track’s intense production elements, creating opportunities for crowd interaction during live performances. The production showcases how multiple artists can collaborate while maintaining their individual artistic identities within cohesive creative frameworks. Its boldness reflects Hardwell’s continued willingness to explore new artistic territories throughout his career.
Beat of the Drum
Released in 2025, “Beat of the Drum” showcases Hardwell’s contemporary production approach while incorporating rhythmic elements that reflect his ongoing artistic evolution. The track demonstrates how electronic music can focus on percussive elements while maintaining melodic sophistication and emotional depth. Its production showcases advanced techniques that reflect years of experience and technical development.
The track’s emphasis on rhythmic elements demonstrates Hardwell’s understanding of how foundational beats can drive entire compositions while supporting melodic and harmonic development. Its contemporary relevance shows how established producers can evolve their sound while maintaining the essential qualities that define their artistic identity. The production quality reflects professional standards that position current work alongside career highlights.
Sanctuary
Another 2025 release, “Sanctuary” demonstrates Hardwell’s ability to create atmospheric electronic music that provides emotional refuge while maintaining dancefloor effectiveness. The track’s themes of peace and protection resonate with audiences seeking meaningful music that transcends typical entertainment expectations. Its production showcases sophisticated sound design and arrangement techniques that create immersive listening experiences.
The track demonstrates how electronic music can address themes of spirituality and emotional healing while maintaining the energy necessary for live performance contexts. Its atmospheric qualities and emotional depth showcase artistic maturity that reflects personal and professional growth throughout Hardwell’s career. The production’s technical sophistication positions it among his most accomplished creative achievements while exploring premium audio experiences available through our compare-earbuds tool.
Lift Off
“Lift Off” represents another 2025 release that showcases Hardwell’s continued creative momentum and his ability to create uplifting electronic music that inspires while entertaining. The track’s themes of transcendence and achievement resonate with audiences seeking motivational music that extends beyond simple dancefloor entertainment. Its production demonstrates technical mastery and artistic vision that reflect career-long development.
The track’s uplifting energy and sophisticated production create emotional responses that demonstrate how electronic music can inspire personal growth and positive thinking. Its technical execution showcases advanced sound design and arrangement skills that position current work alongside career achievements. The production demonstrates how established artists can maintain creative relevance while exploring new artistic directions.
These 25 essential tracks represent the full spectrum of Hardwell’s artistic journey, from his breakthrough hits that defined big room house to his latest explorations in harder electronic music styles. Each track demonstrates different aspects of his creative vision while maintaining the essential qualities that have made him one of electronic music’s most influential figures. His continued evolution and willingness to explore new artistic territories ensure his ongoing relevance in electronic music’s rapidly changing landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hardwell’s most popular track?
“Spaceman” is widely considered Hardwell’s most popular and influential track, selling over half a million copies in the US and helping to popularize the big room house genre. The track’s massive success established Hardwell as a major force in electronic music and continues to be a festival favorite more than a decade after its release.
When did Hardwell start making music?
Hardwell first started producing in 2007 and gained international recognition with his bootleg of “Show Me Love vs Be” in 2009. However, he began DJing at the young age of 13, showing early dedication to electronic music that would shape his entire career trajectory.
What is Hardwell’s record label?
In 2010, Hardwell founded his own record label, Revealed Recordings, to showcase the high-impact sound he was developing alongside some of Europe’s rising dance-music talents. The label has become one of the most respected imprints in electronic music, consistently releasing tracks that define current trends.
Did Hardwell take a break from touring?
On 7 September 2018, Hardwell announced his indefinite hiatus from touring, stating that he wanted to focus on other aspects of his career. However, he made a highly anticipated return to performing in 2022, bringing evolved sound and renewed creative energy to his live shows.
What genres does Hardwell produce?
Hardwell’s music spans multiple electronic genres, from his signature big room house sound to progressive house, hardstyle collaborations, and his recent exploration of techno-influenced styles. His versatility and willingness to evolve his sound have kept him relevant throughout changing electronic music trends while maintaining his distinctive artistic identity.