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Muna Tengi
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The Top 10 Musicians In Belgium In The 21st Century
Belgium, a country nestled in the heart of Europe, has long been a cultural crossroads, absorbing and influencing musical trends from neighboring countries and beyond. In the 21st century, Belgian musicians have continued to make waves on the global stage, blending their rich musical heritage with modern influences to create innovative and diverse sounds. From electronic music to indie rock, pop, and jazz, Belgian artists are pushing the boundaries and earning international acclaim. In this blog post, we explore the top 10 musicians from Belgium who have defined the country's music scene in the 21st century.
1. Stromae
Paul Van Haver, better known as Stromae, is arguably Belgium’s most influential musician of the 21st century. His music, which fuses electronic beats with hip-hop, pop, and chanson, has captivated audiences worldwide. Stromae first gained international fame with his 2009 hit single "Alors on danse," which topped the charts in over 15 countries. His 2013 album Racine Carrée solidified his status as a global superstar, featuring hits like "Papaoutai" and "Formidable." Known for his introspective lyrics and innovative music videos, Stromae addresses themes such as identity, mental health, and societal pressures. His unique sound and artistic vision have earned him comparisons to artists like David Bowie and Kanye West, making him a true icon of modern music.
2. Angèle
Angèle Van Laeken, known simply as Angèle, is a pop sensation who has taken the French-speaking world by storm. Born into a family of artists—her father is a singer, and her brother is the rapper Roméo Elvis—Angèle was destined for a music career. Her debut album Brol (2018) was a massive success, featuring hits like "Tout oublier" and "Balance ton quoi." Angèle’s music blends catchy pop melodies with clever, socially conscious lyrics, addressing issues such as feminism, social media, and the pressures faced by young women. Her relatable themes and infectious sound have made her one of the most successful Belgian artists of the 21st century, earning her numerous awards and a devoted fan base.
3. Amélie Lens
Amélie Lens is a leading figure in the global techno scene, known for her powerful DJ sets and hard-hitting productions. Born in Antwerp, Lens started her career as a model before transitioning to music, quickly making a name for herself in the underground electronic music community. Her relentless energy behind the decks and her ability to craft immersive, high-intensity techno tracks have made her a favorite at major music festivals such as Tomorrowland, Awakenings, and Time Warp. Lens has released music on respected labels like Drumcode and Second State, and she also runs her label, Lenske, where she supports emerging techno talent. Amélie Lens’s rise to prominence reflects Belgium’s strong tradition in electronic music and cements her status as one of the genre’s most influential figures.
4. Balthazar
Balthazar is an indie rock band that has become a cornerstone of Belgium’s alternative music scene. Formed in 2004, the band’s music is characterized by its sophisticated sound, blending elements of rock, pop, and electronic music. Balthazar’s albums, such as Applause (2010), Rats (2012), and Fever (2019), have received critical acclaim for their intricate arrangements, introspective lyrics, and the interplay between the dual vocalists, Maarten Devoldere and Jinte Deprez. The band’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and existential longing, resonating with fans both in Belgium and internationally. Balthazar’s ability to create songs that are both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant has earned them a loyal following and a place among Belgium’s top musical acts.
5. Selah Sue
Selah Sue, born Sanne Putseys, is a singer-songwriter who has gained international recognition for her soulful voice and genre-blending music. Her debut album, Selah Sue (2011), was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like "Raggamuffin" and "Crazy Vibes." Selah Sue’s music incorporates elements of soul, reggae, funk, and hip-hop, and she often draws from her personal experiences, particularly her struggles with depression and anxiety. Her emotionally charged performances and relatable lyrics have resonated with audiences around the world, earning her accolades and a dedicated fan base. Selah Sue’s ability to convey raw emotion through her music has made her one of Belgium’s most compelling artists of the 21st century.
6. Damso
Damso, born William Kalubi, is a Belgian-Congolese rapper who has become one of the most prominent figures in Francophone hip-hop. Damso first gained widespread attention with his 2016 album Batterie Faible, which was followed by the critically acclaimed Ipséité (2017) and Lithopédion (2018). His lyrics, often introspective and raw, explore themes such as identity, love, and the struggles of life in the diaspora. Damso’s distinctive voice and poetic lyricism have earned him a massive following in Belgium, France, and beyond. His influence on the Belgian and international rap scene continues to grow, making him one of the most important voices in modern hip-hop.
7. Roméo Elvis
Roméo Elvis, the brother of Angèle, is another major player in Belgium’s contemporary music scene. Known for his witty lyrics and laid-back flow, Roméo Elvis has carved out a niche in the Francophone rap world. His collaborations with other Belgian artists, including his sister Angèle, have produced several hit singles, while his solo albums, such as Morale (2016) and Chocolat (2019), have been praised for their creativity and originality. Roméo Elvis’s ability to blend humor with sharp social commentary has made him a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying his place as one of Belgium’s top rappers.
8. Hooverphonic
Hooverphonic is a Belgian band that has been at the forefront of the country’s music scene since the 1990s. While they initially gained fame with their trip-hop sound, the band has continuously evolved, incorporating elements of pop, rock, and orchestral music into their work. In the 21st century, Hooverphonic has continued to release successful albums and remains a significant presence in the Belgian music landscape. Their music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, making them one of Belgium’s most enduring and versatile bands. Hits like "Mad About You" and "2 Wicky" remain staples of their live performances, drawing audiences from around the world.
9. Oscar and the Wolf
Oscar and the Wolf, the brainchild of Belgian singer-songwriter Max Colombie, has become a sensation in the European indie-pop scene. The project’s debut album, Entity (2014), introduced audiences to a dreamy, electronic pop sound that quickly gained popularity. Colombie’s haunting vocals and the lush, atmospheric production have made Oscar and the Wolf a standout act, with hits like "Princes" and "Breathing" earning them a devoted fan base. The follow-up album, Infinity (2017), further cemented their status as one of Belgium’s most innovative musical exports. Oscar and Wolf’s music is characterized by its emotional depth and cinematic quality, making it a favorite among fans of indie and electronic music.
10. Lost Frequencies
Lost Frequencies, born Felix De Laet, is a Belgian DJ and record producer who has become a global sensation in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. His breakthrough single, "Are You With Me," topped charts around the world in 2014 and established him as a leading figure in the tropical house genre. Lost Frequencies has since released several successful singles and remixes, earning accolades and millions of streams on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. His music, characterized by its catchy melodies and laid-back vibe, has made him a favorite at music festivals and clubs worldwide. Lost Frequencies’ ability to craft infectious, feel-good tracks has made him one of Belgium’s most successful musical exports of the 21st century.
Conclusion
Belgium’s music scene in the 21st century is a vibrant and diverse landscape, shaped by artists who are pushing the boundaries of their respective genres. From the introspective pop of Stromae and Angèle to the hard-hitting techno of Amélie Lens and the soulful sounds of Selah Sue, Belgian musicians are making their mark on the global stage. These artists, each with their unique sound and vision, represent the best of what modern Belgian music has to offer.
As Belgium continues to produce world-class talent, the country’s influence on the global music scene will only grow stronger. The musicians highlighted in this post are not just representatives of Belgian music; they are innovators and trendsetters whose work resonates far beyond the borders of their home country. Whether through electronic beats, soulful melodies, or thought-provoking lyrics, these artists are defining the sound of the 21st century and ensuring that Belgium remains a key player in the international music landscape.
