Hilversum, June 2, 2024 – The 2025 Golden Harp has been awarded to Martin Garrix. The news was announced by Frank Helmink, director of Buma Cultuur, during the Spraakmakers radio broadcast on Monday morning, June 2, on NPO Radio 1. Garrix — whose real name is Martijn Garritsen — was surprised with the award at home last week. He had just returned that morning from New York before heading off to Lithuania later the same day. The Golden Harp is part of the annual Buma Awards and will be officially presented at Internationaal Theater Amsterdam (ITA).
At just 29 years old, Martin Garrix is one of the youngest recipients of the Golden Harp. He stands out not only for his success and talent, but also for the way he has influenced the genre, a generation, and the music industry. From an early age, he reached the top of the global electronic music scene. But his contribution to the Dutch music landscape goes far beyond international hits and billions of streams. Garrix represents the modern DJ as an artist, entrepreneur, and ambassador of his craft.
He embodies a generation that grew up with YouTube, SoundCloud, and digital production tools, and he uniquely understands how technology, creativity, and marketing merge in today’s music world. His impact is not only artistic but also cultural. His music has been featured during major sports moments, and his virtual performance at the UEFA Euro opening ceremony alongside Bono and The Edge from U2 reached millions of viewers. As a well-known supporter of War Child, he also demonstrates his social commitment, showing that a pop star can be more than an entertainer — a role model as well.
Frank Helmink, Director of Buma Cultuur, stated:
“Martijn achieved what most only dream of — at a very young age. He is not only an artist, but also an entrepreneur and ambassador for his profession. Since his breakthrough with ‘Animals,’ he has become one of the most influential figures in electronic music. This Golden Harp recognizes that leadership role. His legacy is far from complete, but already of tremendous value.”
The Buma Awards celebrate composers, lyricists, and their music publishers with honors in various categories. The National and International Buma Awards are presented to the creators of the most-played and best-selling singles of 2024. In addition to popularity-based prizes, several jury awards are presented annually — such as the Lennaert Nijgh Prize for best lyricist and a Lifetime Achievement Award for a composer with an exceptional and lasting career.
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