KELTEK stopped by to reflect on his debut album, Music Is Magic, his career in the hardstyle scene, offer advice to new talent, and so much more!
Dutch hardstyle artist KELTEK made his mark on the scene seven years ago when he decided to take the leap of faith to become a solo artist. Fans may remember him under a legendary alias, but those days are now simply distant, beautiful memories. Today, KELTEK has captivated the scene with his signature style that combines powerful melodies with angelic soundscapes and unforgettable kicks.
Earlier in June, KELTEK graced Defqon.1 Weekend Festival for a special Music Is Magic showcase where he presented his debut album for the world to enjoy. The reception was incredible as thousands of hard dance fans clamored for the official release after the festival. Fans patiently waited, and KELTEK finally answered their call as his debut album landed exclusively on Scantraxx in late November 2024.
Music Is Magic is arguably KELTEK’s most complete project to date, as he showcases the sounds that fans know and love while adding a new edge to his production style. Fans of rawstyle can indulge in the aggressive beats of “Cage (Feed Them The Rage)” with Unresolved and “To The Limit” with Act of Rage. Euphoric hardstyle fans will find gems in “Beautiful Day,” “Arms Wide Open,” and the title track, “Music Is Magic.” To top it all off, KELTEK ventures into the insane speeds of Frenchcore in his collaboration with D’ort, “Final Call.”
To give us more insight into Music Is Magic, KELTEK stopped by to take a dive into his debut album, reflect on his career, and offer some advice for young producers in the scene. Crank up the volume on Music Is Magic on Spotify or your preferred platform, and read on for the full conversation!
Stream KELTEK – Music Is Magic on Spotify:
To start, I’d like to turn back the clock a little bit. The KELTEK project has been a part of the scene for seven years. Can you take us back to how you felt when you first announced your return to the hardstyle scene?
Fresh! It felt like I was stepping into something exciting with the chance to show people my true and personal creations. Of course, I was a bit nervous. This was my first time performing solo, and the “all eyes on me” effect added a lot of pressure. But it was a positive kind of pressure, fueled by my love for hardstyle, which ultimately pulled me back into the scene.
Since then, the fans have embraced the KELTEK project, helping you become one of the most successful acts today. Looking back on the past seven years, what do you think was the key factor in why fans accepted KELTEK and embraced your new musical direction?
When you’re the “new guy,” there’s a natural curiosity that draws attention. I think I was lucky to capture that momentum in the right way, even though I wasn’t entirely sure what “right” meant at the time. I trusted my instincts and created what I felt was meaningful.
What stood out most was my ability to create thematic tracks with emotional and impactful melodies and vocals that make you feel victorious. My goal is always to make something that sticks with listeners long after they hear it. On top of that, my rich-sounding kicks and leads that have warmth yet hit hard seem to connect with people.
Getting to the present day, you just released your debut album, Music is Magic. Can you give us more insight into what the title means to you in regard to your wild journey in the music industry?
To me, music is the closest thing to magic. It has the power to connect people, stir emotions, and create memories. That’s exactly what I wanted to say with the album title. It’s a celebration of what music can do.
The entire album has a lot of euphoric hardstyle influences and even some classic hardstyle elements in the first track. What do you think about the comeback of euphoric hardstyle this year? Do you think the euphoric style will dominate as much as it did in the past?
Yes. There is always a cycle, and it will come back. Maybe not in the same form, but the appreciation for melodic hardstyle is on its way. Yes, it’s already starting to look like it’s happening, but you can never be entirely sure when it will fully take off. If you ask me, I can’t wait.
Music is Magic also contains the first-ever collaboration between KELTEK and Ran-D, “Never Change.” First, why did it take so long to finally collaborate despite knowing each other for over 20 years?
Our styles were always a bit different, and the timing never aligned. This moment in the scene felt perfect for us to finally come together. I’m glad we waited because it allowed us to create something truly special.
To follow up, how did the production process differ from your other tracks, considering that you both already had a great relationship as friends but never got in the studio together?
It was seamless, honestly. Ran-D and I are on the same page in terms of experience but our individual skills complement each other well, too. Working with him allowed me to go to a harder, more aggressive style, which isn’t something I’d typically do on my own. It was refreshing to step outside my comfort zone and create something different.
You also featured a remix of “Through The Night” by ERABREAK. Why did you feel it was important to highlight a newer talent in the scene on your biggest project and debut album?
Even before I got to know ERABREAK, he made an incredible remix right after signing with Scantraxx. Whether someone is new or experienced, if it sounds good, it’s good. It was actually my manager’s idea to include it, and I’m glad he suggested it. If I can help give someone a strong start to their career, I’m happy to do so.
Speaking of unexpected records, you also have your first-ever Frenchcore record together with D’ort, “Final Call.” Fans have never heard you in the Frenchcore genre, so what conversations or situations led to you and D’ort agreeing on exploring 200 BPM genres?
I had wanted to try something in this style for a while, and D’ort seemed like the perfect collaborator. He’s a highly skilled producer who is still somewhat under the radar, and I found that exciting. It was all about stepping out of my comfort zone and trying something bold and new.
Finally, this album comes at a key time in your life as you’ve just welcomed new twins into the world (congratulations, by the way)! It seems like you’re gracefully balancing your personal and professional life, so what advice can you offer to other artists about how to balance professional goals and the importance of being present in your personal life, too?
Thank you! My advice is simple: if there’s a will, there’s a way. It’s all about determination and staying true to your goals. When I was 17, I told myself I’d keep pursuing music until I could make at least a small living from it. Whether I became wildly successful or not, I was committed to making it my full-time job.
Today, as a father and artist, I’ve learned that it’s all about priorities and finding the balance that works for you. Being present in both your personal and professional life is possible; you just have to stay focused on what matters most.
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