The Dutch rock band Di-rect began in October 1999 when 15-year-old Jamie Westland asked his father Dick to help him set up a band. Three other teenagers joined him, with Tim Akkerman, the eldest at 19, becoming the frontman. Within a few months, Di-rect had completed a five-song demo featuring the track “Just the Way I Do”. 3FM radio DJ Rob Stenders saw them perform live and was impressed. He played a track from their demo on national radio, sparking significant interest from record labels. Two months later, Di-rect signed a record deal.
Soon after, they released their debut album “Discover”, which included hit songs “Inside my head” and “Free”. That year, they performed at Pinkpop and Parkpop and won an Edison for the single “Inside my head”.
After 4 successful albums, Tim Akkerman left the band in 2009. Through a TV program “Who is Direct?”, a new singer was sought. Marcel Veenendaal won the competition and has been Di-rect’s frontman ever since.
20. 90s Kid
“90s Kid” is a nostalgic look back at the ’90s. The song is an ode to an era filled with iconic music, fashion, and culture. The catchy melody and lyrics provide an instant feel-good sensation.
19. Free
“Free” is a powerful song about freedom and self-expression. The energetic guitar riffs and powerful vocals make it an unforgettable anthem.
18. Cool without you
With its catchy chorus and swinging melody, “Cool without you” is a song that sticks in your mind. It’s a cheerful song about independence and confidence.
17. Adrenaline
“Adrenaline” is an energetic song about passion and excitement. The powerful guitar riffs and uplifting lyrics make it one of Di-rect’s most thrilling songs.
16. Blind for you
This song is a beautiful ballad about love and commitment. The emotional vocals and sensitive melody make “Blind for you” one of Di-rect’s most touching songs.
15. A good thing
“A good thing” is an uplifting song about positivity and finding happiness in the little things. The cheerful melody and inspiring lyrics make it a feel-good anthem.
14. She
“She” is a powerful song about love and desire. The profound lyrics and melodic guitar lines make it one of Di-rect’s most cherished songs.
13. Young Ones
“Young Ones” is an ode to youth and the carefreeness of being young. The song has a catchy melody and an inspiring lyric that takes you back to your own youth.
12. The Chase
With its rocking guitar riffs and powerful vocals, “The Chase” is a song that displays Di-rect’s energy and passion. It’s a song that pumps you up and gets you rocking.
11. How My Heart Was Won
This song is a beautiful ballad about love and loss. The emotional vocals and sensitive melody make “How My Heart Was Won” one of Di-rect’s most touching songs.
10. Hold on
“Hold on” is an inspiring song about perseverance and hope. The powerful melody and uplifting lyrics make it an anthem for many.
9. Where We Belong (with Fedde Le Grand)
In collaboration with the talented DJ Fedde Le Grand, “Where We Belong” delivers an electric mix of rock and dance. The song became a hit both on the radio and in clubs.
8. Hungry for love
With its catchy chorus and melodic guitar lines, “Hungry for love” is a song that you can’t get out of your head. It showcases Di-rect’s romantic side at its best.
7. Inside my head
“Inside my head” is an introspective song about self-reflection and inner struggle. The profound lyrics and emotional melody make it one of Di-rect’s most moving songs.
6. This is who we are
This song celebrates individuality and self-acceptance. “This is who we are” is a powerful anthem that encourages listeners to be proud of who they are.
5. Wild Hearts
“Wild Hearts” is an energetic and uplifting song about love and passion. The catchy melody and irresistible chorus make it one of Di-rect’s most beloved songs.
4. Devil Don’t Care
With its rocking guitar riffs and powerful vocals, “Devil Don’t Care” showcases Di-rect’s edgier side. It’s a song that pumps you up and gets you rocking.
3. Through the Looking Glass
This song, though not accompanied by a link, is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Di-rect. With its profound lyrics and melodic build-up, it’s a song that has touched both fans and critics alike.
2. Times are changing
“Times are changing” is a reflective song about change and growth. The emotional vocals and beautiful melody make it one of Di-rect’s most iconic songs.
1. Soldier On
At number one is “Soldier On”, a powerful and inspiring song about perseverance and resilience. It’s an anthem for anyone going through tough times and a reminder to keep going and stay strong.
