It's always wonderful when we get new music to the editorial team! Especially when the music and the artist are something you can already smell that it's going to be big! We were lucky enough to have the time to interview the artist "Retro Rush"
Where are you from?
I’m from Nijmegen, a city in the Netherlands, and I’ve lived here my whole life. It’s a place with a lot of history, but also a vibrant energy, which I think reflects in my music as well. Growing up here has definitely shaped me, both as a person and as an artist.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
In my genre, I’m heavily influenced by artists like Technoboy, Wildstylez, and Headhunterz. But the artist I admire the most in the hardstyle scene is Noisecontrollers. He’s been a huge inspiration for me—his track Dying for a Light was actually a turning point that motivated me to focus even more on music. That track showed me that even in hardstyle, which is often seen as party music, you can translate deep emotions into sound. And the way he does it really hit me in a positive way.
Looking at my influences in a broader sense, I wouldn’t just name individual artists—I’d point to entire genres. I’m inspired by artists who pour their emotions into their music and make you feel something. The biggest one, by far, is Eminem. I’ve been following him closely since 1999, and his ability to tell stories and express raw emotions through music has always been a major influence on me.
Tell me about how your creation part begins, and how is your workflow?
My creative process usually starts with a feeling or an idea. Sometimes it’s a melody that pops into my head, sometimes it’s a certain atmosphere I want to capture. I often start by playing around with sounds, experimenting with kicks, or sketching out a rough melody. Once I have a strong foundation—whether it’s a lead melody, a vocal sample, or a unique sound design—I build everything around that.
I like to keep my workflow dynamic. Sometimes I focus on the energy of the drop first, making sure it hits the right way, and other times I start with the break to create an emotional buildup. I also love experimenting with storytelling in my tracks, so I often use vocal samples or cinematic elements to enhance the theme.
One thing that’s really important to me is capturing the right vibe. If I don’t feel the track, I’ll keep tweaking it until everything clicks. For me, it’s not just about making a hard-hitting track—it’s about creating something that resonates, both on the dancefloor and emotionally.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration in almost anything—daily life, personal experiences, or even a single moment that triggers an idea. Sometimes it’s a conversation, a movie scene, or a random sound that sparks creativity. Of course, other music plays a big role too. Hearing a powerful melody, an unexpected sound design, or an emotional vocal in any genre can push me to experiment and create something new.
But what inspires me the most is emotion. Whether it’s excitement, nostalgia, or even struggle, I try to channel those feelings into my music. That’s why I love artists who manage to translate raw emotions into sound—because in the end, that’s what music is all about: making people feel something.
Describe how art is essential to society nowadays?
Art is essential today because it connects people, expresses emotions, and makes us think. In a world that’s constantly changing, art keeps us human. It helps us tell stories, preserve history, and spark important conversations.
Beyond that, art has a huge impact on well-being. It offers an outlet for creativity and emotions, both for creators and audiences. Whether through music, painting, or digital art, it brings people together and inspires.
What motivates you to create?
I've been a huge music lover since I was young. I don't believe in labels—I listen to whatever resonates with me, whether it’s a classical piece or an intense diss rap, I don't mind. The love and passion I have for music find their true expression in hardstyle. The thought that there are people out there who enjoy my music motivates me, but just being immersed in music itself is a driving force. Living without music is unthinkable for me.
Creating music allows me to channel my emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a way that words alone can't. It's not just about the final product; it's about the process, the energy, and the connection to something bigger. It’s about crafting a sound that speaks to people, whether they’re on the dancefloor or just listening to my tracks in their own space. Music is my way of communicating with the world, and I can’t imagine a life without it.
How do you define success as a music artist?
I would say success for me as a music artist is when people experience joy and create lasting memories through my music, even if it’s just a small group. Of course, the ultimate goal is to reach and entertain as many people as possible, but the real reward lies in knowing that my music has had an impact, no matter how big or small.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Music has helped me in every facet of my life. It’s not just something I do in my free time—it’s a fundamental part of who I am. It gives me a sense of purpose and clarity in moments of doubt, offering both comfort and motivation when I need it most. Whether I’m facing challenges, celebrating successes, or just going through the motions of everyday life, music has always been a constant source of strength. It helps me stay grounded, express my emotions, and connect with others on a deeper level.
How do you develop your art skills?
Developing my art skills comes down to a few key things. First and foremost, it’s about having a genuine passion for music. That passion fuels my desire to learn and grow. I make sure to immerse myself fully in the world of music—whether it's listening to new tracks, studying different styles, or experimenting with sounds.
I also believe in the power of seeking help and learning from others. Whether it’s through collaborating with fellow artists, asking for feedback, or just being open to different perspectives, the exchange of knowledge is invaluable. Lastly, continuous self-development is key. I make time to improve my technical skills, explore new techniques, and stay curious about what’s out there. Music is ever-evolving, so I always try to push myself further to create something fresh and impactful.
What is your next move?
My next move is to keep pushing forward and continuing to produce music, perhaps exploring other genres along the way. I’m always up for experimenting and challenging myself to create something different. However, at the core, I still see myself more as a DJ than a producer. The energy of playing music live, reading the crowd, and creating that connection with the audience is something I truly enjoy. I’m focusing on taking small steps toward building my DJ career—whether it’s gaining more experience, improving my sets, or looking for new opportunities to perform. It’s all about growth, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Where will we see you in 5 years?
Looking five years ahead is a bit tricky for me, but I definitely have musical dreams and goals. Whether they’re realistic or not, I think having dreams keeps life exciting and gives it purpose. In terms of production, I see myself continuing to grow, exploring other genres, and maybe even collaborating with some big names in the industry.
As for being a hardstyle DJ, playing at the Defqon mainstage would be the ultimate achievement for me. I used to dream of performing at Qlimax, but I know that may not happen anymore. Still, if you told me that in five years, I’d be playing weekly at smaller events for a few hundred people, I’d sign up for that without hesitation. It’s all about progress, and I’m looking forward to whatever comes next.
Follow on social:
https://www.youtube.com/@Retrorushdj
https://open.spotify.com/artist/1h9jAsApq8URKbtdUK8t0N?si=joyc5RAMQHOS9PW3dZeNNwFoll