Hands Up, also known as Hands Up! or dancecore (not to be confused with the mashcore-related genre), is a genre in the Hard Dance category that originated in Germany in the early 2000s.
Characteristics[]
Hands Up is characterized by its fast-paced tempo (typically between 140-145 BPM), euphoric melodies, and heavy basslines. Hands up music often features catchy choruses, synthesized leads, and energetic drum patterns, and prompts listeners to raise their hands (hence the name “hands up”). It is considered a blend of Trance and Hardstyle.
Influences and inspirations[]
It has drawn inspiration from various EDM styles, including eurodance, techno, trance, happy hardcore, jumpstyle, and hardstyle.
Popularization[]
The genre’s popularity peaked in the mid-2000s, with artists like Special D, Rob Mayth, Starsplash, and Cascada leading the charge. Within its decline, hands up evolved and incorporated elements from other genres, such as big room house and progressive house. Later still, hands up incorporated many more elements of trance, giving birth to a new genre, hands up trance.
Example[]
- Cascada - Everything We Touch