Coone: The Hardstyle Pioneer from Belgium

Coone is the stage name of Koen Bauweraerts, a Belgian DJ and producer who stands as a global ambassador for the hardstyle genre. Hailing from the city of Turnhout, his career is defined by relentless international touring, chart-topping albums, and a mission to bring hard dance music to the world's biggest stages.

Early career

Born in 1983, Koen Bauweraerts began his musical journey in the late 1990s, inspired by the burgeoning hardcore and gabber scenes in Belgium and the Netherlands. His early productions under the Coone moniker quickly gained traction, leading to his first major label signing with the influential Dutch hard dance label, Dirty Workz, in the early 2000s.

Breakthrough

Coone's breakthrough into the mainstream hardstyle elite came with his 2011 album My Dirty Desire. This release showcased a more accessible, anthem-driven sound that resonated with a massive audience, solidifying his headliner status. His subsequent album, 2013's Global Dedication, debuted at #1 on the Dutch Album Charts, a rare feat for a hardstyle artist, and was certified Gold in the Netherlands.

Key tracks

Words from the Gang — This 2011 anthem became a defining track of the era, known for its massive crowd response and iconic vocal sample.

Faye — A collaboration with Hard Driver, this track exemplifies Coone's melodic yet powerful production style and remains a festival staple.

Loyalty Is Everything — Featuring vocals from Da Tweekaz, this song became a platinum-certified hit in Belgium and a signature track for his label.

Into the Madness — This 2015 single, featuring vocals from Psyko Punkz, highlights his ability to craft hard-hitting yet radio-friendly hardstyle.

Black Submarine — A collaboration with Sub Zero Project, this track represents his connection to the new generation of rawphoric hardstyle producers.

Beyond his solo work, Coone is the founder and owner of the powerhouse label Dirty Workz, which has launched the careers of countless hardstyle acts. His ambitious World of Madness event concept and album series have taken his signature sound on global tours, from North America to Australia. He has also collaborated with major artists outside the genre, including Headhunterz and Belgian rapper Regi.

Fans of Coone's high-energy, melodic hardstyle should also explore the work of fellow Belgian and Dutch pioneers. Headhunterz shares a similar trajectory in popularizing the genre globally. Da Tweekaz are known for their playful yet powerful anthems and frequent collaborations. Wildstylez is another key figure in the melodic hardstyle movement. For a harder edge from Belgium, Gunz For Hire delivers a darker, raw-style sound.

Coone's music is a fixture on dedicated hardstyle and hard dance radio stations featured on this website. His anthems are regularly spun on specialist electronic music streams and online radio stations that champion the harder styles, ensuring his powerful kicks and soaring melodies reach fans across the globe.

The music of Coone can be heard on numerous hardstyle and electronic dance music radio stations available on onairium.com. Listeners can discover his vast catalog of anthems and latest releases by tuning into the dedicated stations that feature this Belgian hardstyle icon.