22 Most Famous Dutch Singers in the World

The Netherlands has a rich and diverse music scene, producing a wide range of talented artists who have made significant contributions both locally and internationally. From the powerful rock anthems of Anouk to the soulful ballads of Marco Borsato, Dutch singers have captivated audiences with their unique voices and compelling performances.

This article explores some of the most famous Dutch singers across various genres, highlighting the careers and achievements of artists who have shaped the sound of Dutch music and left a lasting impact on the global stage.

Whether it’s pop, rock, or folk, these singers represent the vibrant musical heritage of the Netherlands.

22 Most Talented Famous Singers from the Netherlands You Should Hear

These singers represent a range of genres and have made significant contributions to Dutch and international music.

Here’s a list of 22 famous Dutch singers:

#1 Anouk

Anouk, born Anouk Teeuwe in 1975 in The Hague, Netherlands, is one of the most successful rock singers in Dutch music history. She first gained widespread recognition with her 1997 hit single “Nobody’s Wife,” which topped the charts in the Netherlands and brought her international fame. Anouk’s debut album, Together Alone, was a commercial success, solidifying her status as a leading figure in Dutch rock.

Over the years, Anouk has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Urban Solitude (1999), Hotel New York (2004), and Who’s Your Momma (2007). Her music often blends rock, pop, and soul influences, and she is known for her powerful voice and emotionally charged performances. Anouk’s ability to consistently reinvent her sound while staying true to her rock roots has made her a staple in the Dutch music scene, earning her multiple awards and a dedicated fanbase.

#2 Marco Borsato

Marco Borsato, born in 1966 in Alkmaar, Netherlands, is one of the most popular and successful Dutch singers, known for his powerful ballads and emotive voice. Borsato first gained fame in the early 1990s after winning a singing contest and releasing Italian-language songs. However, it was his transition to Dutch-language music with the 1994 album Marco that truly launched his career.

Borsato’s music, characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and dramatic arrangements, has produced numerous chart-topping hits, including “Dromen Zijn Bedrog,” “Binnen,” and “Afscheid Nemen Bestaat Niet.” His albums have consistently topped the Dutch charts, and he has won multiple awards, including several Edison Awards, the Dutch equivalent of the Grammys. Borsato’s influence on Dutch pop music is profound, and he remains one of the country’s most beloved and enduring musical icons.

#3 Within Temptation (Sharon den Adel)

Sharon den Adel, born in 1974 in Waddinxveen, Netherlands, is the lead vocalist of the symphonic metal band Within Temptation, which she co-founded in 1996. The band first gained attention with their debut album Enter (1997), but it was their 2000 album Mother Earth that brought them widespread recognition, thanks to the hit single “Ice Queen.”

Den Adel’s powerful and operatic voice, combined with the band’s lush orchestral arrangements and heavy guitar riffs, has made Within Temptation a leading force in the symphonic metal genre. Albums like The Silent Force (2004) and The Heart of Everything (2007) further established the band’s international success, with hits like “Stand My Ground” and “What Have You Done.” Sharon den Adel’s dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess have earned her a dedicated following and solidified her status as one of the most influential figures in metal music.

#4 André Hazes

André Hazes, born in 1951 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, was one of the most beloved and iconic Dutch singers, known for his heartfelt performances and songs that captured the essence of the Dutch folk music genre known as “levenslied” (songs about life). Hazes first gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Eenzame Kerst” and “De Vlieger,” which became anthems for working-class audiences.

Throughout his career, Hazes released numerous albums that resonated deeply with his fans, touching on themes of love, loss, and hardship. His raw, emotional voice and down-to-earth lyrics made him a national treasure, and his music continues to be celebrated in the Netherlands even after his death in 2004. Hazes’ legacy lives on through his timeless songs and the continued popularity of his music among new generations of Dutch listeners.

#5 Ilse DeLange

Ilse DeLange, born in 1977 in Almelo, Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter known for her blend of country, pop, and rock music. She first gained prominence in 1998 with her debut album World of Hurt, which became a commercial success in the Netherlands, introducing country music to a wider Dutch audience. DeLange’s distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting quickly earned her a loyal fanbase.

Over the years, DeLange has released several successful albums, including Clean Up (2003), The Great Escape (2006), and Eye of the Hurricane (2012), each showcasing her ability to craft deeply emotional and melodically rich songs. In 2014, DeLange gained international recognition as part of the duo The Common Linnets, who represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest and achieved a second-place finish with the song “Calm After the Storm.” Ilse DeLange’s versatility and consistent success have made her one of the most respected and influential artists in Dutch music.

#6 Caro Emerald

Caro Emerald, born Caroline Esmeralda van der Leeuw in 1981 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a jazz-pop singer known for her retro-inspired music that blends jazz, swing, and pop with a modern twist. She first gained international attention with her debut album Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor (2010), which included the hit single “A Night Like This.” The album became a massive success, spending 30 weeks at the top of the Dutch album charts and breaking records.

Emerald’s follow-up album, The Shocking Miss Emerald (2013), continued her success, featuring hits like “Tangled Up” and “Liquid Lunch.” Her unique sound, characterized by its vintage influences and contemporary production, has earned her critical acclaim and a global fanbase. Caro Emerald’s ability to merge classic styles with a modern sensibility has made her one of the most successful and distinctive voices in Dutch music, with her albums achieving platinum status in multiple countries.

#7 Ruth Jacott

Ruth Jacott, born in 1960 in Paramaribo, Suriname, and raised in the Netherlands, is a versatile singer known for her powerful voice and diverse musical style, which spans pop, soul, and jazz. Jacott first gained national attention in 1993 when she represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Vrede,” finishing in a respectable sixth place. This performance launched her into the spotlight and led to the release of her debut album Ruth Jacott, which was well-received and showcased her vocal prowess.

Throughout her career, Jacott has released several successful albums, including Hou Me Vast (1994) and Altijd Dichtbij (1999), earning her a reputation as one of the Netherlands’ most beloved vocalists. Her ability to perform across multiple genres, combined with her charismatic stage presence, has earned her a loyal fanbase and numerous awards. Jacott remains an influential figure in Dutch music, known for her emotional performances and her contributions to both pop and soul music.

#8 Trijntje Oosterhuis

Trijntje Oosterhuis, born in 1973 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a celebrated Dutch singer known for her soulful voice and wide-ranging musical repertoire. She first rose to fame in the 1990s as the lead vocalist of the band Total Touch, which she formed with her brother Tjeerd Oosterhuis. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1996, was a huge success, featuring hits like “Touch Me There” and “Somebody Else’s Lover.”

After Total Touch disbanded, Oosterhuis embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a series of albums that showcased her versatility as a singer, including jazz standards, pop, and soul. Her collaborations with renowned artists such as Burt Bacharach and Lionel Richie further solidified her reputation as one of the Netherlands’ premier vocalists. Oosterhuis also represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015. Known for her emotional depth and technical skill, she continues to be a prominent figure in Dutch music.

#9 Herman Brood

Herman Brood, born in 1946 in Zwolle, Netherlands, was a legendary rock and roll singer, pianist, and artist, often referred to as the “Dutch Elvis.” Brood first gained fame in the 1970s as the frontman of Herman Brood & His Wild Romance, a band known for their energetic performances and raw, rebellious sound. Their 1978 album Shpritsz, featuring the hit single “Saturday Night,” became a defining moment in Dutch rock history, cementing Brood’s status as a national icon.

Brood’s music, characterized by its blend of rock, punk, and blues, resonated with a generation of fans, and he became known for his charismatic, larger-than-life persona. In addition to his music career, Brood was also a prolific visual artist, creating vibrant paintings that reflected his rock and roll lifestyle. Despite his struggles with addiction, Brood remained a beloved figure in the Netherlands until his tragic death in 2001. His legacy as a pioneering force in Dutch rock music endures, with his influence still felt in the Dutch music scene.

#10 Maaike Ouboter

Maaike Ouboter, born in 1992 in Gouda, Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter known for her delicate, introspective music and poetic lyrics. Ouboter first captured the public’s attention in 2013 when she performed her song “Dat Ik Je Mis” on the Dutch television show De Beste Singer-Songwriter van Nederland. The song, written about the loss of her parents, struck a chord with listeners and quickly became a hit, propelling her to national fame.

Ouboter’s debut album, En Hoe Het Dan Ook Weer Dag Wordt (2015), continued to showcase her talent for crafting emotionally resonant songs, with her gentle voice and acoustic arrangements drawing comparisons to artists like Joni Mitchell. Her music often explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, delivered with a sense of vulnerability and honesty that resonates deeply with her audience. Ouboter remains a respected figure in the Dutch music scene, known for her ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level.

#11 Dotan

Dotan, born Dotan Harpenau in 1986 in Jerusalem, Israel, and raised in the Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter known for his blend of indie folk and pop music. Dotan first gained widespread attention with his 2014 album 7 Layers, which featured the hit single “Home.” The song became a massive success, topping the charts in the Netherlands and receiving significant airplay across Europe.

7 Layers was praised for its introspective lyrics, emotive melodies, and Dotan’s distinctive voice, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The album’s success led to a series of sold-out tours and performances at major music festivals. Despite facing controversy in 2018 related to allegations of online manipulation, Dotan has continued to release new music, including his 2020 album Satellites. His ability to craft deeply personal and atmospheric songs has solidified his place in the Dutch music landscape.

#12 Waylon

Waylon, born Willem Bijkerk in 1980 in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, is a country and pop singer known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Waylon first gained fame in 2008 as the first Dutch artist to sign with the renowned Motown label, releasing his debut album Wicked Ways, which included the hit single of the same name. The album was a commercial success, establishing him as a rising star in the Dutch music scene.

Waylon’s career reached new heights in 2014 when he teamed up with Ilse DeLange as part of the duo The Common Linnets, representing the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Calm After the Storm.” The duo finished in second place, earning international acclaim and a massive fanbase. Waylon has since continued to release successful solo albums and has become a prominent figure on Dutch television as a coach on The Voice of Holland. His blend of country, rock, and pop, combined with his strong vocal abilities, has made him one of the most popular artists in the Netherlands.

#13 Eva Simons

Eva Simons, born in 1984 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter and producer known for her energetic dance-pop and EDM tracks. Simons first gained international recognition in 2009 with her hit single “Silly Boy,” which became a viral sensation on YouTube and earned her a deal with EMI Music. Her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence quickly set her apart in the dance music scene.

Simons further solidified her reputation with her collaboration on the 2012 hit “This Is Love” with will.i.am, which topped the charts in multiple countries. She continued to release successful singles, including “I Don’t Like You” and “Policeman,” showcasing her ability to blend pop, dance, and electronic music with infectious energy. Simons’ work as both a solo artist and a featured vocalist has made her a prominent figure in the global dance music scene, known for her bold style and high-energy performances.

#14 Gordon Heuckeroth

Gordon Heuckeroth, commonly known as Gordon, born in 1968 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a singer, television personality, and entrepreneur known for his work in the Dutch music and entertainment industry. Gordon first gained fame in the 1990s as a member of the boy band LA The Voices, but it was his solo career that truly established him as a prominent figure in Dutch pop music. He released a series of successful albums, with hits like “Kon Ik Maar Even Bij Je Zijn” showcasing his smooth voice and romantic ballads.

In addition to his music career, Gordon has become a well-known television personality, hosting and judging on various Dutch TV shows, including X Factor and Holland’s Got Talent. His flamboyant personality and candid style have made him a household name in the Netherlands. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Gordon remains a beloved figure in Dutch entertainment, known for his contributions to both music and television.

#15 Edsilia Rombley

Edsilia Rombley, born in 1978 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a singer and television presenter known for her soulful voice and dynamic performances. Rombley first gained national attention when she won the Dutch talent show Soundmixshow in 1996. She then represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998 with the song “Hemel en Aarde,” finishing in a respectable fourth place.

Throughout her career, Rombley has released several successful albums, showcasing her ability to blend pop, soul, and R&B influences. Her albums Thuis (2007) and Sweet Soul Music (2017) highlight her versatility as a vocalist, with a repertoire that includes both original songs and covers of soul classics. In addition to her music career, Rombley is also known for her work as a television presenter, co-hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2021. Her powerful voice and engaging stage presence have made her a respected and beloved figure in the Dutch music scene.

#16 Danny de Munk

Danny de Munk, born in 1970 in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a singer and actor who first gained fame as a child star in the 1980s. He became a household name in the Netherlands after starring in the 1984 film Ciske de Rat, in which he also performed the title song, “Ik Voel Me Zo Verdomd Alleen.” The song became a massive hit, and De Munk’s career took off both as a singer and an actor.

Following the success of Ciske de Rat, De Munk continued to release music, often focusing on Dutch pop and levenslied (songs about life), a genre that resonated deeply with his audience. He also transitioned into musical theater, starring in productions such as Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar. De Munk’s versatility as both a singer and actor has made him a well-respected figure in Dutch entertainment, with a career spanning over three decades.

#17 Luv’ (Jose Hoebee, Marga Scheide, Patty Brard)

Luv’ was a Dutch girl group formed in 1977, consisting of members José Hoebee, Marga Scheide, and Patty Brard. The group quickly rose to fame with their catchy disco-pop tunes and glamorous image. Their debut single “My Man” became a hit, but it was their 1978 song “You’re the Greatest Lover” that catapulted them to international stardom, topping the charts in several countries.

Luv’ continued to release a string of successful singles, including “Trojan Horse” and “Casanova,” becoming one of the most popular girl groups in Europe during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their music was characterized by its infectious melodies, danceable beats, and the trio’s vibrant personalities. Despite multiple lineup changes and a series of reunions, Luv’ remains an iconic part of Dutch pop culture, known for their contributions to the disco era and their lasting impact on the music industry.

#18 Tino Martin

Tino Martin, born in 1984 in The Hague, Netherlands, is a singer known for his powerful voice and his ability to blend Dutch pop with elements of levenslied and schlager music. Martin first gained attention after winning a Dutch talent show in 2002, but it was his 2014 single “Jij Liet Me Vallen” that truly launched his career, quickly becoming a hit and earning him a devoted fanbase.

Martin’s debut album, Jij Liet Me Vallen (2015), was a commercial success, and he has since released several more albums, including Hoe Ik Het Zie (2018) and Voor Iedereen (2019). His music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, delivered with a deep emotional intensity that resonates with his audience. Martin’s rise to fame has been marked by numerous awards and sold-out concerts, establishing him as one of the leading figures in contemporary Dutch pop music.

#19 Duncan Laurence

Duncan Laurence, born Duncan de Moor in 1994 in Spijkenisse, Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter who gained international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019 with his song “Arcade.” Laurence’s victory marked the Netherlands’ first Eurovision win in 44 years, and “Arcade” became a global hit, charting in multiple countries and garnering millions of streams.

Before his Eurovision success, Laurence studied at the Rock Academy in Tilburg and participated in the Dutch version of The Voice in 2014. His music is characterized by its emotional depth, introspective lyrics, and haunting melodies, often blending elements of pop, indie, and electronic music. Following his Eurovision win, Laurence released his debut album Small Town Boy (2020), which was well-received by critics and fans alike. His success has made him one of the most prominent young artists in the Netherlands, with a growing international fanbase.

#20 Jan Smit

Jan Smit, born in 1985 in Volendam, Netherlands, is a singer, television presenter, and actor known for his contributions to Dutch pop and schlager music. Smit first rose to fame at the age of 10 with his debut single “Ik Zing Dit Lied Voor Jou Alleen,” which became a hit and established him as a child star in the Netherlands. Over the years, Smit’s music evolved, and he continued to release a string of successful albums, many of which topped the Dutch charts.

Smit’s music is known for its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and appeal to a broad audience, making him one of the best-selling Dutch artists of all time. In addition to his music career, Smit has also become a popular television personality, hosting shows like Beste Zangers and serving as a judge on Holland’s Got Talent. His enduring popularity and versatility as an entertainer have made him a beloved figure in Dutch culture.

#21 Davina Michelle

Davina Michelle, born in 1995 in Rotterdam, Netherlands, is a singer-songwriter who gained widespread recognition after her cover of Pink’s song “What About Us” went viral on YouTube in 2017. The video caught the attention of Pink herself, who praised Michelle’s vocal talent, leading to increased media exposure and a growing fanbase. Following her viral success, Michelle released her debut single “Duurt Te Lang” in 2018, which became a major hit in the Netherlands, topping the charts for 11 weeks.

Michelle’s powerful voice, combined with her ability to deliver emotional and impactful performances, has made her one of the most promising young artists in Dutch music. She has since released several successful singles and her debut album My Own World (2020), showcasing her versatility across pop, ballads, and dance tracks. Michelle’s rapid rise to fame and her continued success have established her as a leading voice in the contemporary Dutch pop scene.

#22 Boudewijn de Groot

Boudewijn de Groot, born in 1944 in Batavia, Dutch East Indies (now Jakarta, Indonesia), is a legendary Dutch singer-songwriter and one of the most influential figures in Dutch music. De Groot first gained fame in the 1960s with his socially conscious and poetic songs, many of which became anthems for the Dutch counterculture movement. His 1966 album Voor de Overlevenden, featuring the iconic song “Welterusten, Meneer de President,” is considered a classic of Dutch folk music.

De Groot’s music is characterized by its lyrical depth, often addressing themes of love, politics, and personal reflection, delivered with a folk-influenced sound that resonates deeply with his audience. Throughout his career, De Groot has released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed Hoe Sterk Is De Eenzame Fietser (1973) and Maalstroom (2018). His enduring influence on Dutch music, combined with his ability to evolve as an artist, has made him a revered and beloved figure in the Netherlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Anouk a standout figure in Dutch rock music?

Anouk is known for her powerful voice and emotionally charged performances, which helped bring Dutch rock music to international attention. Her ability to consistently reinvent her sound while staying true to her rock roots has earned her a dedicated fanbase.

How did Duncan Laurence’s Eurovision win impact his career?

Duncan Laurence’s victory in the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest with “Arcade” propelled him to global fame, making the song a worldwide hit and launching his international music career. His success has established him as one of the most promising young artists from the Netherlands.

What genres does Caro Emerald blend in her music?

Caro Emerald’s music uniquely blends jazz, swing, and pop with a modern twist, creating a retro-inspired sound that has gained her international acclaim. Her debut album spent 30 weeks at the top of the Dutch album charts, breaking records and establishing her distinctive style.

How has Jan Smit maintained his popularity in the Dutch music scene?

Jan Smit has maintained his popularity through his versatile talents as a singer, television presenter, and actor, combined with his consistent release of catchy, heartfelt music. His ability to connect with a broad audience has made him one of the best-selling Dutch artists of all time.