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Nick Rotteveel (Dutch pronunciation: [nɪk ˈrɔtəveːl]; born 6 January 1989), professionally known as Nicky Romero or Monocule, is a Dutch DJ, record producer and remixer from Amerongen, Utrecht Province.[2] He has worked with, and received support from DJs, such as Tiësto, Fedde le Grand, Sander van Doorn, David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Armand van Helden, Avicii and Hardwell.[4] He currently ranks at number 20 on DJ Mag's annual Top 100 DJs poll.[5] He is known for his viral hit song "Toulouse".

Early life

[edit]

Nick Rotteveel was born and raised in Amerongen, Netherlands. He moved to Kingston, Ontario, Canada for a year, and later moved back to the Netherlands to continue his education where he did his final semesters in France.[6]

Career

[edit]

Romero signed to Once Records and released the tracks "Privilege" and "Qwerty". It was followed by the track "Funktion One" was released, which was mixed by Azucar (from Madskillz and Gregor Salto) and later added "Hear My Sound". In 2009 he remixed Tony Cha Cha's track "Get on the Floor" and a bootleg for David Guetta entitled "When Love Takes Over". Both tracks increased his profile and the Ministry of Sound contacted him to do some remixes on their label. He also made a remix for the Dirty South track "Alamo".[7]

Romero in 2011

In 2010 Nicky Romero came up with a new track called "My Friend" (released on Spinnin' Records) which features a sample from the well known Groove Armada track of the same name.

"My Friend" has been played by DJs and record producers such as Tiësto, Axwell, Fedde Le Grand, Sander van Doorn and many more. The track reached Number 4 at Beatport worldwide overall chart, Number 1 at Dance-Tunes chart and several other famous DJ charts. 2011 saw Romero release plenty of remixes such as "Where Them Girls At" by David Guetta featuring Flo Rida and Nicki Minaj, "What A Feeling" by Alex Gaudino featuring Kelly Rowland, "Stronger" by Erick Morillo and Eddie Thoneick featuring Shawnee Taylor, "Where Is The Love" by Eddie Thoneick and "Rockin' High" by Ben Liebrand.[7]

2012–2013: Mainstream success

[edit]
Nicky Romero in Czech Republic, 2013

In 2012, Romero achieved popularity with the recording "Toulouse", which became a mainstay on the Beatport Top Ten for a significant period of time.[4] Recognizing his talent, MTV named him an EDM artist to watch in 2012.[8] His popularity has risen in recent years, and he has attained a joint residency with David Guetta at party hot spot Ibiza for the summer of 2012.[9]

In October 2012, Nicky Romero received the DJ Mag 'Highest New Entry' award on DJ Mag's top 100 DJs fan poll, and with spot number 17, he is one of the highest new entries ever, together with Skrillex and Dash Berlin.[10][11] In that same year, Romero collaborated with Swedish DJ/Producer, Avicii, to produce the highly anticipated single "I Could Be the One" which became a massive success across Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, where the single debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart on 17 February 2013 ― for the week ending on 23 February 2013 ― becoming both Romero and Avicii's first chart-topper in the UK.[12] On the UK Dance Chart, "I Could Be the One" debuted at number one ahead of Baauer's "Harlem Shake", which entered at number two.

Following "I Could Be the One" in 2013, Romero released his long-awaited single, "Symphonica", that reached No. 1 on the overall Beatport Top 100 chart.[13] His next release, a collaboration with Krewella, "Legacy" also saw Beatport chart success hitting the No. 1 spot.[14] Romero then took on a collaboration with Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, "S.O.T.U.", that he released on Steve Angello's Size Records.[15] Amid his 2013 releases, he performed as a resident at The Light Las Vegas and he also played numerous major festivals including Ultra Music Festival,[16] Coachella,[17] Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas[18] and Puerto Rico,[19] Sensation White,[20] and Tomorrowland, amongst others. One of his most notable gigs was at TomorrowWorld where he was one of the first music acts to present an interactive performance experience using Google Glass.[21]

In October 2013, Romero ranked at number 7 on DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs annual fan poll.[22] He helms his own weekly radio show, Protocol Radio and his own record label, Protocol Recordings.[23]

2014–present: Studio work

[edit]

In June 2014 he released a song called "Feet On The Ground" with vocals by the Dutch singer Anouk.[24] Beside his music, he is up for different kinds of charity projects, as '10.000 Hours – People Planet Party' which is made to help renovate playgrounds for disadvantaged kids.

"Legacy" was used as the backing track by Australian television network Channel Seven in on-air promotions for the 2014 season return of hit show Revenge. After the advertisement's high rotation during the high rating 2014 Australian Open, the song charted in Australia at number 50.[citation needed] In August 2014, Nicky partnered with EDM lifestyle brand Electric Family to produce a collaboration bracelet for which 100% of the proceeds are donated to Fuck Cancer. In November 2015, Romero indicated that he had been suffering from anxiety which forced him to reduce his touring commitments and scale back his studio work.[25]

In 2018, Nicky Romero released a song with ROZES, titled "Where Would We Be".[26]

Other productions

[edit]

In addition to all "Nicky Romero" singles, he also co-produced the track "Right Now" (featuring David Guetta) from Rihanna's seventh studio album Unapologetic,[27] which was released on 19 November 2012. Before his performance at Tomorrowland,[28] he mentioned in an interview with MTV that he was also working on a new project with Rihanna.[29] He co-wrote and produced "It Should Be Easy" by Britney Spears for her eighth studio album Britney Jean.

Romero also co-produced "Bang My Head" (featuring Sia) and "No Money No Love" from David Guetta's 2014 album titled Listen. Furthermore, he co-produced "Dragon Night" from Sekai no Owari's second studio album Tree.

Other ventures

[edit]

Protocol Recordings

[edit]
Protocol Recordings
FoundedMay 8, 2012 (2012-05-08)
FounderNicky Romero
Genre
Country of originNetherlands
LocationAmsterdam, Netherlands
Official websiteprotocolrecordings.com

Protocol Recordings is a Dutch record label founded on 8 May 2012 by electronic music producer and DJ Nicky Romero.[30] They have released music by notable underground electronic artists such as Blasterjaxx, Don Diablo, R3hab, Vicetone, Stadiumx, Thomas Gold, Arno Cost and Volt & State.[31][32] The label's first release was "WTF!?" by Nicky Romero and ZROQ.[31][33]

Protocol Recordings has become a successful record label as a result of releases by Nicky Romero. The most successful international single from the label was Like Home by Nicky Romero and Australian duo NERVO, which reached 37th place in Sweden, 15th place in the general chart and 5th place in the dance chart of the Netherlands and 33rd place in the singles chart and 9th place in the dance chart of the United Kingdom.[34]

Five releases have reached number one on the Beatport Top 100. Four of these have been produced by Nicky Romero and another, Howl At The Moon, produced by Hungarian duo StadiumX, which reached 59th place in the French SNEP chart.[35]

Protocol Radio is a weekly podcast and syndicated radio show created in 2013 and is hosted by Nicky Romero. It comprises upcoming releases on Protocol Recordings and tracks that he supports.[36]

In 2019, Romero joined fellow DJ, Steve Aoki, in his investment in the Rogue esports team.[37]

In 2021 Nicky Romero expanded his output by delivering an in-depth music production masterclass for aspiring DJs and producers.[38]

Filmography

[edit]

Romero made a cameo appearance in the 2015 film We Are Your Friends, starring Zac Efron. He appeared in the ending, playing himself during the movie's Summerfest party.[39]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Nicky Romero discography

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Nicky Romero

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Nicky Romero (born Nick Rotteveel; January 6, 1989) is a Dutch DJ, , and remixer renowned for his influential work in (EDM). Based in Amerongen, , he began his musical journey at age six as a before transitioning to electronic production in the late . Romero achieved international breakthrough with his 2011 single "," a track that showcased his signature energetic sound, followed by the 2013 collaboration "" with , which has amassed over 544 million streams on (as of November 2025). He has also co-produced major pop tracks, including Rihanna's "Right Now" from her 2013 album Unapologetic and ' "It Should Be Easy" from the same year. In 2012, Romero founded the record label Protocol Recordings, which has grown into a prominent EDM imprint with releases from artists like Nicky himself, , and , reaching over 35 million weekly radio listeners globally and celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2022. The label extends to ventures like Protocol Radio, a weekly show, and events at festivals such as Medusa Festival and . Romero's remixes for artists including , , and have further solidified his reputation, while innovations like the Kickstart 2 sidechain compression plugin (developed with Cableguys) and his Monocule alias for deeper tracks highlight his multifaceted approach. He has performed at major festivals worldwide, including headline sets at Tomorrowland. As of 2025, Romero continues to tour extensively, with appearances at venues like Zouk Singapore and Tomorrowland Brasil, where he delivered emotional tributes to , including tracks like "Levels" and "Waiting For Love". In November 2025, he released the Higher Off the Ground EP in collaboration with via Dim Mak Records, channeling club energy through high-octane tracks. His ongoing projects, including the FASTER MASTER mastering tool and NFT initiatives like "Behind the Mask," underscore his evolution from a young prodigy to an EDM mogul shaping the genre's future.

Early life

Childhood and family background

Nick Rotteveel van Gotum, professionally known as Nicky Romero, was born on January 6, 1989, in Amerongen, a small town in the Utrecht Province of the Netherlands, to a Dutch family. His early years were spent in this rural setting, where the tranquil environment of Amerongen contributed to a relatively sheltered upbringing. During his childhood, Rotteveel van Gotum relocated with his family to , , for approximately one year, providing exposure to North American culture before returning to the . Upon their return, the family settled back in the , where his parents offered strong support for his emerging interests, including music, recognizing and nurturing his talents from an early age. This familial encouragement played a key role in fostering his creative development during his formative years.

Initial music influences and education

Nicky Romero, born Nick Rotteveel van Gotum, developed an early fascination with music in his hometown of Amerongen, , where he began playing the drums at the age of six, inspired by his father who was also a . This initial exposure came through participation in a local school , where he focused on percussion, particularly the , honing his rhythmic sense in a structured yet communal setting. After returning from , Romero continued his formal education in the Netherlands, completing his final semesters in . From these beginnings, Romero's interest evolved into self-taught electronic music production, as he spent much of his youth experimenting in his bedroom with beats and sounds, transitioning from acoustic drumming to digital creation without formal training in music production beyond his early band experiences. His foundational skills in laid the groundwork for his later productions, allowing him to blend percussive elements into electronic tracks. This hands-on approach, free from rigid academic constraints, enabled rapid experimentation and growth in music technology. Romero's early influences drew heavily from the Dutch electronic scene, including and , which he explored while spinning records at local bars during his teenage years. He has cited pioneering DJs like as key inspirations, admiring their ability to fuse melodic and energetic elements in , which shaped his aspiration to create impactful, crowd-moving sounds. These genres, combined with R&B influences from his initial DJ sets, formed the eclectic foundation that propelled his shift toward professional production.

Career

Early releases and remixes (2007–2011)

Nicky Romero entered the electronic music scene in 2007 by signing with the independent Dutch label Once Records, which provided a platform for his initial productions in and electro styles. His debut single, "Privilege," was released in 2008, showcasing his emerging talent for energetic, club-oriented tracks that drew from his foundational influences in progressive and . This release marked his first step toward building a presence in the underground electronic community. Following "Privilege," Romero issued "" later in 2008 on the Electro Superstar imprint, a high-energy track that further highlighted his production skills and began circulating among European DJs. By 2009, he expanded into remixing, with notable work on David Guetta's "" featuring , which gained traction through online circulation and boosted his visibility in industry circles. These efforts caught the attention of established labels like Spinnin' Records and Toolroom, signaling his rising profile in the pre-mainstream EDM landscape. In 2010, Romero released "My Friend" on , a big room-leaning track that resonated in underground club scenes and demo sets, contributing to his growing reputation as a versatile producer. The following year, 2011, saw him solidify his credentials with contributions to high-profile releases, including David Guetta's "" featuring and , and Fedde le Grand's "Rockin' High" featuring Mitch Crown. These , blending punchy builds and drops, were played widely in clubs and helped establish Romero as a key figure in the evolving underground before his broader breakthrough.

Breakthrough hits (2012–2013)

In 2012, Nicky Romero experienced a significant breakthrough with the release of his single "" on . The track, characterized by its energetic big room sound and anthemic drops, quickly gained traction in the scene, peaking within the top 10 on 's overall chart and maintaining a strong presence there for over a month. This success marked Romero's emergence as a prominent figure in the genre, earning him the Beatport Music Award for Best Breakthrough Artist later that year. The following year, Romero solidified his international prominence through his collaboration with on "I Could Be the One," released in early 2013. The uplifting track topped the UK Singles Chart, becoming Romero's first number-one hit in the country, and also reached the summit of the US Dance Club Songs chart. Its commercial impact extended across multiple territories, highlighting Romero's ability to blend melodic elements with high-energy production, further boosted by his prior work that honed his skills in crafting radio-friendly yet club-oriented tracks. Romero's rising profile led to high-profile performances at major festivals during this period, including sets at the in in 2013, where he played on the mainstage, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival that same year on the Sahara Stage, and Tomorrowland in , captivating large crowds with his dynamic live shows. These appearances underscored his growing global appeal, culminating in a number 7 ranking on the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs poll in 2013, one of the highest new entries in the list's history.

Established productions and challenges (2014–2019)

Following the momentum from his 2013 breakthrough collaboration "" with , Nicky Romero solidified his position in the EDM scene with key productions and high-profile rankings in 2014. He released "Feet On The Ground," a track featuring Dutch singer Anouk, on June 9 via Protocol Recordings, blending uplifting synths with emotive vocals to showcase his signature big-room sound. Additionally, Romero co-produced tracks on David Guetta's album Listen, including "Dangerous," contributing to the project's global success and highlighting his growing influence in mainstream electronic music. That year, he ranked 8th in DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs poll, reflecting his sustained popularity amid a competitive field. In late 2015, Romero publicly disclosed his struggle with anxiety, which had persisted for over two years and intensified to the point where he considered quitting music altogether. He shared this in an on , noting that despite consulting 12 therapists, the condition led to reduced touring and a deliberate shift toward studio-focused work to manage his health. This personal challenge marked a transitional period, allowing him to prioritize creative output over exhaustive live performances while maintaining his label operations at Protocol Recordings. During this time, he continued releasing music, such as the introspective "Lighthouse," emphasizing emotional depth in his productions. Romero's output remained consistent through the latter half of the decade, with notable tracks demonstrating resilience amid his challenges. In 2016, he dropped "Take Me" featuring Colton Avery, a melodic house anthem that captured his evolving style with soaring drops and heartfelt lyrics, released as part of his Nicky Romero Best 2016 compilation. By 2018, he collaborated with vocalist ROZES on "Where Would We Be," a nostalgic electro-pop track that premiered on Conan and explored themes of reflection, further illustrating his ability to fuse EDM with accessible songwriting. These releases, alongside his earlier hit "Legacy" with Krewella—which peaked at No. 44 on the ARIA Singles Chart in 2014—underscored his enduring impact, even as his DJ Mag rankings stabilized in the top 25 through 2018.

Recent releases and activities (2020–present)

In 2024, Nicky Romero expanded his collaborative efforts with the release of "Love You For The Summer," a vibrant track featuring Brazilian producer Öwnboss and vocalist Oaks, issued via on July 25. This single marked Romero's debut on the label and blended uplifting melodies with summery vocals, garnering attention for its infectious energy suitable for festival play. Romero's 2025 output showcased a noticeable incorporation of vocal elements in his productions, leaning toward vocal house influences across several singles. In April, he dropped "Move It (Rapidin)," his first Spanish-language track, partnering with Italian producer GIACOBBI and Mexican-American artist Fatboi on Municipal Recordings; the song reworks a 1990s classic into a Latin-infused house anthem with rhythmic rap verses and driving beats. This was followed in May by "Don't Be Shy" on Protocol Recordings, a collaboration with millforlife and singer Rory Hope, featuring emotive vocals over a pulsating house groove that emphasizes lyrical hooks and club-ready drops. July brought "Fade Away" with producer Barmuda, another Protocol release blending hazy vocal layers with progressive house builds to create an atmospheric, vocal-driven soundscape. Later in the year, October saw the October 24 premiere of "Hold On" alongside Sick Individuals, a progressive house track with soaring vocals that evokes nostalgic EDM vibes. Capping the period, the "Higher Off The Ground" EP with Steve Aoki arrived on November 7 via Dim Mak and Protocol, delivering tech house tracks infused with energetic vocal samples for high-impact dancefloor appeal. After managing his anxiety challenges that emerged in 2015, Romero resumed intensive global touring after the pandemic, performing at major events including Tomorrowland's mainstage in 2025. His 2021 ranking of #26 in DJ Mag's Top 100 DJs poll reflected sustained industry prominence during this phase. Romero has since evolved his live performances into hybrid sets, integrating live instrumentation—such as keyboards and synths—alongside traditional DJ elements, as demonstrated in his December 2023 Nightvision show where he played four instruments onstage for an immersive experience.

Other productions

Notable remixes

Nicky Romero's remixing career gained significant traction in the early , building on his initial forays into the craft during 2007–2011 when he handled edits for emerging Dutch acts. His high-profile remixes during this period not only amplified the originals' energy with his signature drops and melodic builds but also positioned him as a sought-after collaborator in the EDM landscape. Similarly, his 2012 remix of David Guetta's "Without You" featuring Usher heightened the track's anthemic appeal, aiding its global chart success—including a number four peak on the —and solidifying Romero's reputation among top producers. In , Romero's selective approach to remixing continued to yield impactful results, with works that enhanced performance for major releases while strengthening artist relationships. For instance, his contributions to tracks like Rihanna's "Right Now" (co-produced alongside ) blended electro elements that supported the song's rise to number one on the Dance Club Songs , though framed more as production support than a standalone . These efforts often led to ongoing collaborations, such as joint ventures with Guetta on subsequent projects. More recently, Romero has focused on remixing for artists affiliated with his Protocol Recordings label, emphasizing edits that align with his label's high-energy sound. Examples include the Nicky Romero Edit of Third Party & Mark Roma's "Shut Up," which refines the original's big-room vibe for live sets, and the Nicky Romero & Almero Festival Edit of his own collaboration "Holy" with Émilie Rachel, tailored for peak-time festival play. In 2024, he provided a remix for Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding's "Free," infusing the track with progressive house elements for club play. These selective remixes underscore his role in nurturing Protocol talent while maintaining influence in the scene.

Key collaborations

One of Nicky Romero's most pivotal collaborations came with on the 2013 track "," a anthem that blended their signature melodic builds with euphoric drops, achieving over 368 million views and earning certification in multiple markets. This partnership not only propelled Romero into global stardom but also exemplified the era's shift toward festival-ready electronic music, influencing subsequent productions by integrating Avicii's folk-inspired elements with Romero's high-energy progressions. Romero's work with on "" in 2012 further expanded his reach into electro-house territory, featuring intricate synth layers and vocal hooks that resonated on radio and club circuits alike. Similarly, his ongoing collaborations with have produced enduring hits, including the 2012 big room track "," the 2019 festival banger "Ring the Alarm," and the 2025 release "," which combines pulsating basslines with anthemic choruses to bridge EDM and pop audiences. These joint efforts, often released via Romero's Protocol Recordings, highlight Guetta's mainstream appeal enhancing Romero's production precision. Romero also co-produced Britney Spears' "It Should Be Easy" from her 2013 album . In recent years, Romero teamed up with Brazilian DJ Öwnboss and vocalist Oaks for the 2024 single "Love You for the Summer," marking his debut on with a vibrant electro-pop infusion that incorporates summery melodies and infectious rhythms. This track underscores a broader evolution in Romero's collaborative style, transitioning from the progressive house dominance of his early partnerships to more accessible, pop-infused productions in the 2020s that prioritize vocal-driven narratives and crossover appeal.

Other ventures

Protocol Recordings

Protocol Recordings is an independent label founded by Nicky Romero in May 2012 and headquartered in , , . Established during Romero's rising prominence in the EDM scene, the label serves as a platform for innovative tracks, prioritizing quality and artist development over volume. The label's roster includes a mix of established producers and emerging talents, with Romero himself releasing numerous originals and collaborations through it, such as the Higher Off The Ground EP with in 2025 and "Hold On" with Sick Individuals. Key signings encompass high-profile names like , , , and NERVO, alongside up-and-coming artists such as Thomas Newson, who has delivered multiple releases including the Dysnomia EP in 2023 featuring tracks like "Home" and "3AM." Other notable contributors include Almero with "" and Monocule (Romero's alias) on "Halo" with LAMAS and Dan Soleil. Protocol Recordings emphasizes forward-thinking , spanning genres like , , big room, and , while fostering a family-oriented environment through selective artist and global promotion via digital distributors and partnerships. By 2025, the label has grown significantly, surpassing 645 releases and achieving commercial success with multiple Top 10 hits, three Gold certifications, one Platinum, and one Double Platinum record. This expansion underscores its role in nurturing talent and delivering impactful tracks in the evolving EDM landscape.

Media and esports involvement

Nicky Romero has been involved in media through his long-running radio show, Protocol Radio, which he has hosted since its inception in 2012. The program airs weekly episodes featuring a mix of new tracks, exclusive premieres, and guest mixes from prominent DJs and producers, providing a platform for emerging talent within the EDM scene. As of 2025, the show continues to release episodes regularly, with over 690 installments broadcast via platforms such as , , and , maintaining its status as a key promotional outlet tied to Romero's Protocol Recordings label. In addition to radio, Romero made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2015 film We Are Your Friends, a drama centered on the EDM culture that stars Zac Efron. His brief role occurs during a festival scene, highlighting his real-world prominence in the electronic music industry alongside other DJ cameos like Alesso and Dillon Francis. Romero expanded into non-music ventures with his 2019 investment in ReKTGlobal, the parent company of the esports organization Rogue. This stake supports Rogue's competitive gaming teams across titles like and , aligning with Romero's interest in gaming and joining investors such as . The investment underscores his diversification into , a sector blending entertainment and competitive play.

Awards and recognition

DJ Mag rankings

In 2012, Romero debuted at number 17 in the Top 100 DJs poll, receiving the Highest New Entry award. He achieved his highest ranking in the Top 100 DJs poll at number 7 in 2013, marking a dramatic rise from his number 17 position the previous year and establishing him as a breakout star in the EDM scene. This peak was fueled by high-profile collaborations and releases, including work on Rihanna's "Unapologetic" album and the launch of his label Protocol Recordings, which featured tracks with artists like and Nervo. Following his success, Romero maintained strong visibility in the poll, securing number 8 in amid continued momentum from hits like "" and "I Could Be the One" with , as well as global touring and label expansions. His rankings fluctuated in subsequent years, often remaining within the top 50, reflecting sustained fan support through evolving productions and international performances.
YearRankingChange from Previous Year
7+10 (from 17 in 2012)
8-1
202126+5 (from 31 in 2020)
202220+6
202324-4
202425-1
202529-4
Romero's poll performance has been influenced by key factors such as prolific releases and extensive touring, with 2022's climb to number 20 attributed to the 10-year milestone of Protocol Radio, new club-oriented tracks like "So Much Love" with Almero, and a return to markets like and . In recent years, including 2025's number 29 spot, his rankings have been bolstered by appearances at major summer events and fresh collaborations, such as "Rave Music" with and the immersive live set "Nightvision." These elements underscore the poll's emphasis on global engagement and output in the landscape.

Other accolades and nominations

In 2013, Nicky Romero won the International Dance Music Award (IDMA) for Best Electro/ Track for his single "Toulouse," which also earned the IDMA for Best . The collaborative track "" with achieved significant commercial success, earning gold certifications in countries including (15,000 units) and (150,000 units), as well as platinum certifications in (4× Platinum, 280,000 units), (30,000 units), (15,000 units), (60,000 units), the (600,000 units), and the (1,000,000 units). Romero received a nomination for Best Dutch Act at the . In 2014, he was awarded the BUMA International Award for "," recognizing its global impact as one of the year's most successful Dutch exports.

Discography

Albums and EPs

Nicky Romero has not released any traditional full-length studio albums as of November 2025. Instead, his output emphasizes extended plays (EPs) that bundle original tracks, often featuring collaborations and remixes, primarily through his Protocol Recordings label. These EPs showcase his evolution from high-energy to more melodic and tech-influenced progressive sounds, with several marking milestones in his career or label history. One of his early notable EPs is Symphonica, released on March 25, 2013, via Protocol Recordings. This five-track release centers on the title track, an anthemic production, and includes radio and extended mixes alongside remixes by , Bare, and Suedes that adapt it for and progressive styles. The EP highlights Romero's rising prominence in the early 2010s EDM scene, blending orchestral elements with club-ready drops. In 2017, Romero commemorated the fifth anniversary of Protocol Recordings with the 5 Years of Protocol EP, a five-track digital release featuring remixed versions of classics. Key inclusions are Stadiumx's remix of "Like Home" (with NERVO), Tony Romera's rework of "Symphonica," and Nicky Romero's own remix of "Howl at the Moon" by Stadiumx and Taylr Renee, emphasizing the 's roots and collaborative ethos. This EP serves as a , underscoring Romero's role in curating and elevating emerging talent. Romero's EPs from the reflect a shift toward introspective, festival-oriented productions. The Redefine EP (March 2020) and Monocule EP (September 2020), both on Protocol Recordings, explore and melodic elements without guest features, focusing on Romero's solo vision amid the evolving electronic landscape. Later releases like the See You On The Dancefloor EP (February 4, 2022) with Low Blow continued this trajectory with high-tempo tracks suited for live sets. The Perception EP, released on May 27, 2022, via Protocol Recordings, captures Romero's summer festival sound with four original tracks emphasizing euphoric builds and driving basslines. Below is the track listing:
Track NumberTitleDuration
1Hear Me Now3:29
2Lose My Mind3:07
3Pressure2:36
4Work My Body2:50
Building on this, the Nightvision EP arrived on December 1, 2023, also via Protocol Recordings, tying into Romero's immersive live event series of the same name. This six-track set includes collaborations such as "Desire" with TELYKAST featuring Linney, blending emotional vocals with pulsating synths, alongside solo cuts like "Skin on Skin" and "Mahoya" that highlight tech-infused . The EP's diverse lineup, including a Ve/Ra remix of "Give In," was designed to energize club and festival environments. In 2025, Romero delivered two significant EPs amid a prolific year. The Shout EP, released February 14, 2025, on Protocol Recordings, reimagines ' 1984 hit in collaboration with , offering a and extended mix that fuse nostalgic pop with modern EDM drops. Later, the Higher Off the Ground EP with , issued November 7, 2025, via a joint Dim Mak and Protocol Recordings venture, comprises two tracks channeling club energy through electro and grooves, marking a high-profile return to collaborative firepower.

Singles as lead artist

Nicky Romero's singles as lead artist span over a decade, showcasing his transition from high-energy tracks to more melodic, vocal-infused dance productions. His early releases established him as a key figure in the EDM scene, while later works incorporate pop elements and collaborations that emphasize emotional hooks and festival-ready drops. One of his breakthrough singles, "" (2012), exemplifies his initial style with its masked vocal samples, thunderous basslines, and explosive builds, amassing over 500 million streams across platforms and propelling him to international prominence. The track peaked at number 92 on the Single Top 100 chart, marking his entry into global dance charts. Following this, "" (2013, with ) became a massive hit, debuting at number 1 on the UK Singles Chart and selling over 100,000 copies in its first week, blending euphoric synths with uplifting vocals to achieve crossover appeal. In 2013, "Legacy" (with ) further solidified his chart success, topping the Top 100 and reaching number 5 on the Top Dance Songs chart in the , with its anthemic chorus and future house influences resonating in festival sets. The track also charted at number 30 on Billboard's Dance/Electronic Songs chart, highlighting Romero's ability to craft vocal-driven anthems. Romero's output in the 2020s reflects a shift to collaborative, vocal-heavy tracks suited for charts. In 2025, "" (with GIACOBBI featuring Fatboi), a rework of the 1990s classic "," infuses hip-hop vocals with high-BPM energy, released via Municipal Recordings and gaining traction on Beatport's charts. This was followed by "Don't Be Shy" (with millforlife and Rory ), a melodic single emphasizing soaring vocals and emotional builds, which debuted on Protocol Recordings and entered Spotify's global viral playlists. Later that year, "Fade Away" (with Barmuda) delivered a return with introspective lyrics and festival drops, premiering at Tomorrowland and charting on 's Dance/Electronic Songs in its release week. These 2025 releases underscore Romero's ongoing adaptation to vocal-driven trends while maintaining his signature production polish.
SingleYearKey CollaboratorsNotable Achievements
2012NoneOver 500 million streams; #92 Top 100
2013#1 UK Singles Chart; 100,000+ first-week sales
Legacy2013#1 Top 100; #5 iTunes Dance; #30 Dance/Electronic
Move It (Rapidin)2025GIACOBBI, FatboiBeatport dance chart entry; viral rework of hit
Don't Be Shy2025millforlife, Rory HopeSpotify global viral dance playlist debut
Fade Away2025Barmuda Dance/Electronic Songs chart; Tomorrowland premiere

References

  1. https://www.theaudiodb.com/artist/114123-Nicky-Romero
  2. https://relentlessbeats.com/artists/nicky-romero/
  3. https://neonyxcruises.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/NR-Biography-2023.pdf
  4. https://protocol-recordings.com/about/
  5. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLFiirHOF-wa3QRExEa4m8A
  6. https://nickyromero.com/
  7. https://protocol-recordings.com/steve-aoki-and-nicky-romero-unite-on-higher-off-the-ground-ep/
  8. https://mabumbe.com/people/nicky-romero-age-net-worth-relationships-biography/
  9. https://josephklibansky.com/blog/who-is-nicky-romero
  10. https://exronmusic.com/2024/04/02/nicky-romero-age-hometown-lifestyle-family/
  11. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/nicky-romero.html
  12. https://www.musicradar.com/news/nicky-romero-dont-be-afraid-to-ignore-the-rules-normal-music-theory-blow-roof-off
  13. https://thebanginbeats.wordpress.com/2014/08/28/interview-with-nicky-romero/
  14. https://www.qobuz.com/cl-es/interpreter/nicky-romero/301564
  15. https://www.beatport.com/track/qwerty/723784
  16. https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/interpreter/nicky-romero/301564
  17. https://www.beatport.com/track/my-friend/1154530
  18. https://open.spotify.com/track/23btui3sBe3xqIA3PDgRRl
  19. https://www.bandwagon.asia/articles/hydeout-greatest-hits-songs-behind-the-epic-line-up
  20. https://festivalinsider.com/articles/these-songs-turn-ten-in-january-2022
  21. https://metro.co.uk/2013/02/17/avicii-and-nicky-romero-land-first-uk-no-1-3481578/
  22. http://www.mariah-charts.com/chartdata/PAvicii.htm
  23. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2013/7/Nicky-Romero
  24. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-anouk-feet-ground/
  25. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2014/8/Nicky-Romero
  26. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/nicky-romero-anxiety-issues-letter-6762629/
  27. https://djmag.com/news/nicky-romero-reveals-he-suffers-anxiety
  28. https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/rozes-nicky-romero-video-where-would-we-be-8457742/
  29. https://acharts.co/song/83120
  30. https://music.apple.com/us/album/love-you-for-the-summer-single/1755468790
  31. https://www.beatportal.com/articles/579307-nicky-romero-debuts-on-monstercat-alongside-ownboss-and-oaks-for-mega-collaboration-love-you-for-the-summer
  32. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-giacobbi-ft-fatboi-move-it-rapidin/
  33. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-x-millforlife-x-rory-hope-dont-be-shy/
  34. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-x-barmuda-fade-away/
  35. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-sick-individuals-hold-on/
  36. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/steve-aoki-x-nicky-romero-higher-of-the-ground-ep/
  37. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/nicky-romero-anxiety-protocol-quit-music-6805395/
  38. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2021/26/Nicky-Romero
  39. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/third-party-mark-roma-shut-up-nicky-romero-edit/
  40. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-x-emilie-rachel-holy-nicky-romero-almero-festival-edit/
  41. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWvU3YoU9hg
  42. https://www.edmsauce.com/2015/04/06/avicii-nicky-romeros-i-could-be-the-one-goes-gold/
  43. https://edmhousenetwork.com/celebrating-12-years-of-avicii-nicky-romeros-epic-i-could-be-the-one/
  44. https://weraveyou.com/2024/12/avicii-nicky-romero-classic-i-could-be-the-one-turns-12-years-old/
  45. https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/interpreter/nicky-romero/301564/page/3
  46. https://protocol-recordings.com/nicky-romero-david-guetta-ignite-the-dancefloor-with-electrifying-new-single-shout/
  47. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeLc_odK58s
  48. https://edm.com/music-releases/nicky-romero-monstercat-debut-love-you-for-the-summer-ownboss-oaks/
  49. https://www.getrealmanagement.com/protocol-recordings
  50. https://edm.fandom.com/wiki/Protocol_Recordings
  51. https://www.zoominfo.com/c/protocol-recordings/356898886
  52. https://protocol-recordings.com/releases/all/
  53. https://protocol-recordings.com/artists/
  54. https://protocol-recordings.com/featured-artist/thomas-newson/
  55. https://protocol-recordings.com/releases/all/protocol-recordings/
  56. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/protocol-radio/id561124694
  57. https://protocol-radio.com/
  58. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlLNCmcAmLA
  59. https://www.nme.com/news/film/zac-efron-s-edm-movie-we-are-your-friends-suffers-882056
  60. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3787590/trivia/
  61. https://esportsinsider.com/2019/06/rektglobal-nicky-romero
  62. https://edm.com/news/nicky-romero-rektglobal/
  63. https://www.invenglobal.com/articles/8463/rektglobal-welcomes-dj-nicky-romero-as-newest-investor
  64. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2012/17/Nicky-Romero
  65. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2022/20/Nicky-Romero
  66. https://djmag.com/top100djs/2025/29/nicky-romero
  67. https://1200dreams.com/28th-annual-international-dance-music-awards-winners/
  68. https://www.aria.com.au/pages/aria-charts-accreditations.htm
  69. https://www.bpi.co.uk/brit-certified/
  70. https://www.buma-awards.nl/artiesten/nicky-romero/
  71. https://nickyromero.com/music/
  72. https://www.discogs.com/release/4416762-Nicky-Romero-Symphonica
  73. https://music.apple.com/us/album/symphonica-ep/1019217875
  74. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-5-years-protocol-ep/
  75. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-x-low-blow-see-you-on-the-dancefloor-ep/
  76. https://music.apple.com/us/album/perception-ep/1624195309
  77. https://open.spotify.com/album/2YE08q7reI4y0Ucx8mfJtE
  78. https://music.apple.com/us/album/nightvision-ep/1716881518
  79. https://www.discogs.com/release/29083897-Nicky-Romero-Nightvision-EP
  80. https://genius.com/albums/Nicky-romero-and-david-guetta/Shout-ep
  81. https://protocol-recordings.com/release/nicky-romero-david-guetta-shout/
  82. https://edm.com/music-releases/steve-aoki-nicky-romero-new-ep-higher-off-the-ground/
  83. https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0FVSFZ368
  84. https://nexus.radio/news/masked-mayhem-how-toulouse-turned-nicky-romero-into-a-big-room-legend
  85. https://edmhousenetwork.com/released-12-years-ago-nicky-romero-toulouse/
  86. https://top40-charts.com/song.php?sid=35279&sort=chartid&string=Nick
  87. https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/avicii-vs-nicky-romero-i-could-be-the-one/
  88. https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-23399359
  89. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/nicky-romero-krewella-legacy-save-my-life-exclusive-preview-1569357/
  90. https://creativedisc.com/index.php/2014/01/05/billboard-danceelectronic-songs-06-jan/
  91. https://www.billboard.com/artist/nicky-romero/
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