The much-anticipated annual musical event, the NPO Radio 2 Top 2000, is gearing up for its 26th edition beginning at midnight on December 25. This beloved countdown, which has become synonymous with the holiday season for many Dutch listeners, will be broadcast on NPO Radio 2 and NPO 1 Extra.
This year’s countdown will see Queen’s timeless classic “Bohemian Rhapsody” once again securing the top position. It marks the 21st time the track has held this honor since the inception of the Top 2000 back in 1999. Known for its brilliant fusion of rock operatic elements, this song maintains its unrivaled status among listeners.
According to NPO Radio 2, the festivities don’t stop there. The celebrations kick off on the evening of December 24 at 11 PM with the Openingshow Top 2000, hosted by Bart Arens at the Stadsschouwburg in Haarlem. Aimed at paying tribute to music legends, this hour-long show will feature various Dutch artists including HAEVN, Danny Vera, and DJ TLM, among others. "Approximately 100 pop classics have been stitched together after 1,000 hours of work, creating one hour of music television, recorded with enthusiastic Radio 2 fans," Arens stated, expressing his excitement for the premiere.
This year's iteration of the list exhibits familiar favorites as notable shifts have occurred within the top ten. Apart from Queen's consistent dominance, tracks like “Hotel California” from the Eagles and “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin have also anchored their spots within the top echelons. Meanwhile, the only song to fall out of the top ten this year is “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica, which slipped to the 11th spot, paving the way for Dermot Kennedy’s “Better Days” to enter as the highest new contender at 6th position.
“Better Days” holds special significance this year as listeners have intentionally cast their votes for it as homage to Eva Hermans-Kroot, a 26-year-old Instagram influencer who tragically lost her battle with lung cancer. Eva shared her story with the public, and “Better Days” was her favorite track, offering her solace during difficult times. The people’s choice has solidified it as not just another new entry, but also as a poignant tribute reflecting societal sentiments.
Among the compelling trends depicted this year is the noticeable disparity between voting patterns across genders. An intriguing finding reveals if only female voters were considered, “Better Days” would ascend to the second position; whereas, it ranked substantially lower among male voters, showcasing differing musical preferences and nostalgia-driven choices. Male voters predominantly leaned toward legendary British rock bands from the 70s, with artists like Pink Floyd and Dire Straits frequently appearing at the top of their lists.
Interestingly, other demographic factors such as age also appeared to influence voting behavior. Younger voters, particularly those aged 15 and below, favored classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” but they also showed enthusiasm for more contemporary pieces, illustrated by the rise of YouTube groups like the Bankzitters who would hypothetically feature prominently if the youth controlled the final rankings.
Meanwhile, the rankings also resonate at the regional level. While “Bohemian Rhapsody” remains the most celebrated track for most municipalities, others like Danny Vera’s “Roller Coaster” reclaimed votes dominantly across numerous communities, especially in Zeeland, where local artists achieved surprising success. The cultural consciousness surrounding music continues to fluctuate, reflecting local pride and changing tastes.
For those eager to explore the extensive listings and colorful musical history presented by the Top 2000, the broadcasts will be easily accessible. NPO Radio 2's frequency can be found on FM, DAB+, along with multiple digital subscriptions, and globally via the Internet. The theme channel NPO 1 Extra will host dedicated coverage, allowing viewers to not miss any cherished moments. Live streaming will also be available via NPO Start.
This year holds additional meanings for not just die-hard music fans but for families coming together around the airwaves, creating shared memories. Top 2000 Live is set to celebrate this cultural phenomenon with special concerts across Dutch theatres, showcasing the icons of rock and pop.
Overall, the NPO Radio 2 Top 2000 continues to be more than just a music countdown; it has evolved, becoming intertwined with Dutch culture, generations, and significant contemporary movements, bringing together listeners of all ages for festive celebrations each holiday season.
With anticipation growing, tune in this holiday season and enjoy the music celebrated by many generation after generation.
