Showtek’s “FTS” has become one of the most beloved anthems in the rave scene, and the duo shared insight on how the tune came to be in a new mini-doc.
Turn back the clock two decades, and you’ll find Showtek and other artists helping kickstart the rise of hardstyle. While the duo originally made techno, they jumped over to hardstyle in 2003 and released their debut album, Today Is Tomorrow, which featured a tune called “FTS” that has since taken the scene by storm.
“FTS” has become a true anthem since its release. The energetic, rave-forward nature of the tune’s production, paired with the spoken-word vocals featuring lyrics that aren’t just relatable but uplifting, create an intoxicating blend. There’s no wonder why Showtek continued to play this one out in their sets, even as their sound deviated from hardstyle over the years.
Now that the duo has returned to the genre in full force, they’ve put extra emphasis on its legacy by releasing a mini-documentary. In the near-six-minute behind-the-scenes video, the duo details the creation process behind the track, answers some questions about it, and shares their thoughts on why it has had such lasting power.
“We always aim to create something new and different when we sit down,” Showtek shared about the tune. “The fact that it resonates with so many generations, cultures, and genres is a dream come true. When we created it, we wanted to tell a story about why we all gather every weekend together at festivals and events, to forget about our daily bs and the frustration we have to deal with as individuals and as a society as well.”
Dance music is created to unite and come together and be in harmony. That message has not changed and is still current. Life is hard enough sometimes, and to be able to release negative energy together is a unique experience that doesn’t age. That’s why dance music is still growing and so important.
Showtek
DJs from around the world have championed the original version of “FTS” in their sets since its release, while others have put their spin on the iconic tune. Over the years, major acts like Hardwell, Code Black, Gammer, Sound Rush, SAYMYNAME, and Zatox have all twisted the track with edits. More recently, Reinier Zonneveld and Sub Zero Project have received the honor of officially remixing the tracks.
“‘FTS’ is an all-time classic with a perfect combination of emotion and raw energy,” said Reinier Zonneveld. “Long time ago, I wanted to fit it in my sets, so I remixed it in my live sets. After a lot of trying out, I got to the version that I’m happy to call my take on ‘FTS’! It works really, really well and has been a highlight in my sets for years.”
Check out the video for insight on “FTS,” listen to the remix from Reinier Zonneveld, stay tuned for Sub Zero Project’s version to drop on May 30, and follow Showtek for more hardstyle to come!
Watch Showtek’s – FTS [TWO DECADES LATER] on YouTube:
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