Gary Richards Reflects on a Decade of Hardstyle: Justin Bieber\, Daft Punk\, and the Evolution of a Genre The year is 2017. Gary Richards\, better known as DJ and producer Destructo\, sits down for an interview. The topic? A decade of hardstyle\, a genre that has seen a meteoric rise and a surprising evolution. From its early days as a niche underground movement to its mainstream breakthrough with artists like Justin Bieber and Daft Punk dipping their toes into the sound\, hardstyle has undeniably left its mark on electronic music. From Underground to Mainstream: A History of Hardstyle Hardstyle's journey began in the late 1990s\, emerging from the hardcore scene in the Netherlands. Its defining characteristics – fast tempos\, intense kick drums\, and intricate melodies – quickly captivated a loyal fanbase. The genre gained traction through underground events and record labels like Masters of Hardcore\, Q-Dance\, and Scantraxx\, solidifying its status as a force to be reckoned with within the electronic music landscape. By the early 2000s\, hardstyle started to break through to a wider audience. Artists like Headhunterz\, Showtek\, and Brennan Heart became household names\, pushing the boundaries of the genre with innovative productions and powerful live performances. The Rise of the "Hardstyle Sound" and Its Crossover Appeal 2017 marked a pivotal year in hardstyle's history. The genre's distinct sound began to permeate the mainstream\, with unexpected collaborators and crossover hits. Justin Bieber's "Sorry" (2015) integrated a signature hardstyle kick drum\, captivating listeners worldwide and introducing the genre to a whole new audience. Daft Punk's "Get Lucky" (2013) with Pharrell Williams\, while not strictly hardstyle\, incorporated elements of the genre\, creating a vibrant and energetic sound that resonated globally. These instances were not just isolated occurrences; they represented a shift in the music industry. Hardstyle was no longer confined to the underground; it had become a sought-after sound\, a testament to its raw energy and undeniable appeal. Gary Richards' Perspective: A Visionary's Insights In his 2017 interview\, Destructo highlighted the importance of staying true to the genre's roots while embracing its evolution. He emphasized the significance of artists like Martin Garrix and The Chainsmokers incorporating hardstyle elements into their productions\, showing a growing appreciation for the genre's impact. He also acknowledged the challenges that came with this newfound mainstream recognition\, such as the potential for commercialization and the risk of losing the raw essence that defined the genre. Destructo encouraged producers and DJs to focus on pushing creative boundaries and staying true to the hardstyle spirit. The Legacy of Hardstyle: An Enduring Influence Since 2017\, hardstyle's influence has continued to grow. The genre has inspired countless artists across various electronic music subgenres\, from trance to EDM\, and continues to evolve with fresh talent emerging from the underground. Key Takeaways: Hardstyle has come a long way from its underground beginnings\, achieving mainstream recognition with artists like Justin Bieber and Daft Punk adopting elements of its signature sound. The genre's evolution has been driven by artists who are dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and expanding its reach while staying true to its core values. Hardstyle remains a powerful force in electronic music\, inspiring countless artists and influencing the soundscape of the genre. FAQ: What is the difference between hardcore and hardstyle? Hardcore is typically characterized by its faster tempos\, more aggressive sound\, and often darker themes. Hardstyle is more melodic and focused on intricate kick drum patterns. Why is hardstyle so popular? Its fast tempos\, intense energy\, and powerful melodies create a unique and immersive listening experience\, attracting a devoted fanbase. What are some of the biggest hardstyle events? Qlimax\, Defqon.1\, and Mysteryland are some of the most renowned events in the hardstyle scene. References: [DJ Mag](https://www.djmag.com/content/justin-bieber-samples-hardstyle-sorry) [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/may/21/daft-punk-get-lucky-pharrell-williams) [Hardstyle.com](https://www.hardstyle.com/) Conclusion: From its underground roots to its mainstream crossover\, hardstyle has proven its resilience and its capacity to captivate audiences worldwide. With a rich history\, a vibrant future\, and a unique blend of energy and emotion\, hardstyle continues to be a dominant force in the electronic music landscape\, reminding us of the power and evolution of music genres.