Pure Ibiza 94.7
today06/06/2024
Netherlands born DJ and producer icon Armin van Buuren has created the “official anthem” for the Dutch men’s national football team ahead of the 2024 UEFA European Championship.
The new track, titled “Larger Than Life,” was released on May 30 and includes a feature from the popular Dutch indie band Chef’Special, along with backing vocals from the Dutch national team.
This collaboration marks the first time the Netherlands team’s vocals have been used on an official football anthem since André Hazes’ 1988 hit, “Wij Houden Van Oranje.”
In a behind-the-scenes video, Armin van Buuren shared his enthusiasm for the project: “We came here with the band to write the Oranje anthem together. There has never been a song recorded with all the players of the Dutch national team. I think that’s really awesome!”
“Larger Than Life” captures the spirit of the Dutch national team as they prepare for the upcoming Euros, which kicks off June 14th across Germany. Collaborator Chef’Special elaborates, “It’s about the journey that hopefully leads to greatness, something that’s bigger than ourselves. That process and that type of belief in one another can lift you up and make you feel larger than life.”
Netherlands’ coach Ronald Koeman reflects on the nostalgic André Hazes’ hit, “Wij Houden Van Oranje” anthem, sharing, “Back in 1988, I was an international player myself and among the many who featured on André Hazes’ classic song. Not only was it fun to do, but it also instilled a strong sense of togetherness. I heard from the players that they too enjoyed contributing to the song.”
Armin van Buuren’s “Larger Than Life” is available to stream now.
Written by: Nicole Little