​​CRUSH: A Fresh Breeze of Inclusivity and Queer Celebration

We had a deep conversation with Jan Hollstein, founder of CRUSH, one of the most vibrant and representative events in the queer scene, a deeply personal story emerged that sheds light on the motivations behind creating this unique space. Hollstein shared with honesty the inspiration behind CRUSH, a project that transcends his passion for music and has become a symbol of inclusivity, celebration, and freedom.

From the beginning of our conversation, Jan was straightforward in revealing the "why" behind CRUSH.

"I want to be honest with you and share the story of why I started CRUSH," he said.

His voice carried emotion as he recounted how, after losing his mother in a tragic accident and having an absent father, it was his queer uncle who raised him. Through his experience living in a queer community that faced prejudice but radiated love and acceptance, Jan was shaped by values of tolerance and diversity that now guide his vision.

“My uncle and his community not only filled the void left by my parents but also taught me values that have defined my worldview. Growing up in a community that, despite facing prejudice, always radiated love and acceptance deeply inspired me to make a difference.”

These life lessons drove Jan to create a safe space for the queer and LGBTQ+ communities, a sanctuary where anyone can feel accepted and supported. His dream for CRUSH has always been to embody these ideals, becoming a space where diversity is celebrated, and love and respect prevail.

While Jan is clear that CRUSH is a space of inclusion and diversity, he also reflected how CRUSH is more than just a party.

“It's very important to me to have a diverse lineup, with a preference for queer and FLINTA artists. But I haven’t positioned myself too high regarding that movement in the concept of the brand,” he explained.

When discussing the evolution of the music scene in Amsterdam, Jan offered an interesting perspective on the growing influence of trance and hard house in the city. Although Berlin is considered the epicenter of electronic music, particularly of these genres, Jan observed how Amsterdam is embracing these sounds in a unique way.

"Amsterdam has always had a rich history in electronic music, but its relationship with trance and hard house has become more pronounced in recent years," he noted.

While Berlin has been the cradle of techno, Amsterdam has developed its own legacy, fusing these harder sounds with its creative and open spirit.

“What’s shaping Amsterdam’s unique identity in these genres is its culture of tolerance and experimentation. The Dutch are known for their pragmatism, but they also embrace creativity and freedom of expression,” he added.

Hollstein highlighted how Amsterdam’s club culture has become a melting pot of different musical styles.

“The connection between Berlin and Amsterdam is undeniable, but what’s interesting is how Amsterdam is putting its own spin on these genres.”

Though Berlin remains a strong influence, Amsterdam is carving out its own space in the global scene, driven by its openness and willingness to fuse genres in innovative ways.

When asked about the challenges artists and venues in Amsterdam face, Jan was clear that balancing the growing influence of trance and hard house with the city’s established musical heritage isn’t easy.

“One of the main challenges is maintaining authenticity while embracing new influences," he commented.

However, he also noted that the Dutch scene is generally open to experimentation, which is creating new opportunities for artists. While some purists express concern about these new sounds overshadowing local talent, Jan has observed more excitement than resistance.

“The excitement over the new energy in the scene seems to outweigh any kind of resistance,” he assured.

One of the most interesting topics came up when we talked about the iconic club Shelter and how the introduction of genres like trance and hard house has influenced the audience dynamic. Jan noted that these genres have brought about a noticeable shift in the energy and demographics of the crowd.

“With trance and hard house, you see more festival-goers and younger fans,” he explained.

This shift has created a dynamic mix on the dancefloor, with higher energy levels and a stronger sense of euphoria.

However, Jan also emphasized the importance of maintaining Shelter’s identity while expanding its musical offerings.

“The biggest challenge has been maintaining the core identity of the club while expanding its musical range," he mentioned.

Jan recounted a memorable night in April when Perel played a sold-out show, followed by a back-to-back set by Upper90 and Pegassi, in what he described as an unforgettable moment where the transition of sounds led the dancefloor into a state of total euphoria.

As genres evolve and audiences diversify, Jan stressed the importance of balancing Shelter’s expanding audience with preserving its underground essence.

“It’s about creating experiences where different audiences can come together while keeping Shelter’s essence. We want to expand our reach without diluting what makes the club special,” he concluded.

As I reflect on my conversation with Jan and the incredible story behind CRUSH, I’m struck by how much more this event represents than just a night out. CRUSH isn’t merely a party—it’s a space of belonging, born from Jan’s deeply personal journey of love, loss, and acceptance. His vision, inspired by the resilience and warmth of the queer community that raised him, shines through in every detail of the event. There’s a palpable sense that CRUSH is built on values of inclusivity and unity, creating an atmosphere where people from all walks of life can feel seen, heard, and celebrated.

CRUSH’s impact goes beyond the music and the dance floor. It’s a reminder of how powerful safe spaces can be for marginalized communities, particularly in a world that still grapples with intolerance and prejudice. Jan’s commitment to diversity in his lineups, while balancing the delicate identity of the event, is a testament to his respect for both the queer community and the ever-evolving electronic music scene. CRUSH manages to encapsulate the spirit of freedom and joy that comes from genuine acceptance, and that’s what sets it apart from anything else.

For me, CRUSH feels like a fresh breath of inclusivity for anyone searching for a place to be their truest self. It’s a rare combination of music, love, and shared humanity. After speaking with Jan, I’m more certain than ever that CRUSH will continue to grow, not just as a standout event in the scene but as a movement that embodies the ideals of unity, respect, and queer celebration.