Value of Dutch music hit record high in 2025; Afrojack clocks 114 international shows

Dutch popular music generated more revenue in 2025 than the year before. Exports reached more than 247 million euros, beating last year’s record by 27 million euros, according to a report released Tuesday commissioned by Buma Cultuur.

The figures reflect net earnings from Dutch music activities overseas, including salaries, profits, and taxes. Live performances accounted for the bulk of the revenue (€197.1 million), with dance music artists leading the way, collectively bringing in €165.6 million, as in previous years.

Frank Helmink, director of Buma Cultuur, said in reaction to the new figures: “I was optimistic about the future last year, so the growth doesn’t surprise me. The 12 percent increase reflects the ongoing demand for Dutch music. The quality of our music is simply high and continues to be. While electronic music still dominates, I foresee exports expanding to many more regions, partly because Dutch composers and producers are increasingly invited to collaborate on music for local acts around the world.”

Helmink highlights the metal band Distant, which comes in fifth on the list of artists with the most foreign performances. “They are being invited to tour alongside some of the biggest names in the industry.”

Distant played 102 shows abroad in 2025. DJ Franky Rizardo again leads Dutch artists in international performances, totaling 130 shows. Afrojack follows with 114, and Mau P with 112. KI/KI is the first female solo artist on the list, ranking 22nd. Other non-electronic Dutch acts finding success abroad include pianists Lucas and Arthur Jussen and singer Herman van Veen.

For years, the Dutch music industry has experienced consistent growth in earnings from abroad. Buma Cultuur reports that since 2020, Dutch artists have contributed more than 200 million euros annually in export value, reaching a high of 247 million euros in 2025. This positions the Netherlands as one of the top music exporters per capita globally, especially in the electronic music sector.