Martin Garrix’s Feud With Spinnin’ Records and Eelko van Kooten: A Rivalry That Keeps Fans Guessing

In the high-stakes world of electronic dance music, few stories have captivated fans like the feud between Martin Garrix and Spinnin’ Records, including its founder, Eelko van Kooten. What began as a professional partnership filled with chart-topping hits spiraled into a public conflict marked by lawsuits, statements, and an ongoing debate over artistic freedom versus corporate control.

But is this feud a genuine battle over rights and creative autonomy, or just another calculated drama to keep the spotlight on one of EDM’s brightest stars? Let’s dive into the details and explore what lies behind the headlines.

The Rise of Martin Garrix Under Spinnin’ Records

When Martin Garrix released “Animals” in 2013 under Spinnin’ Records, it catapulted the then-17-year-old producer into global stardom. With its infectious melody and seismic drops, the track became an anthem for festival-goers worldwide, cementing Spinnin’ Records as a powerhouse label in electronic music.

Behind this meteoric rise was Eelko van Kooten, a shrewd businessman who co-founded Spinnin’ Records and helped turn it into a juggernaut of the EDM industry. Under van Kooten’s guidance, the label fostered a roster of talented DJs and producers, with Garrix quickly becoming its crown jewel.

For years, Garrix and Spinnin’ Records seemed like a match made in musical heaven, delivering hit after hit. However, cracks began to show as Garrix’s career soared and his ambitions grew beyond the confines of the label.

The Breakup: Freedom or Betrayal?

In 2015, Garrix announced his split from Spinnin’ Records and its management arm, MusicAllStars, in a dramatic move that sent shockwaves through the EDM community. The fallout wasn’t just professional—it quickly became legal.

Garrix accused Spinnin’ and van Kooten of misleading him into signing contracts that unfairly transferred ownership of his music to the label. In a scathing statement, he argued that these contracts had been presented to him at an age when he lacked the legal and business experience to fully understand their implications.

Spinnin’ Records and Eelko van Kooten, however, painted a different picture. They claimed the contracts were fair and that Garrix had benefitted immensely from their partnership. The label argued that its resources and expertise were instrumental in building his career, making the split feel like a betrayal.

The dispute escalated to court, with both parties trading blows in a legal battle that lasted years. In 2017, a Dutch court ruled in favor of Garrix, granting him ownership of his music catalog. The decision was hailed as a victory for artists’ rights but left lingering questions about loyalty and ethics in the music business.

Was It a Feud or a Strategic Career Move?

While many view the conflict as a genuine battle for artistic freedom, others question whether the feud was a calculated career move by Martin Garrix. By leaving Spinnin’ Records, Garrix not only gained control of his music but also positioned himself as a champion for artist independence.

The timing of the split also aligned with the launch of his own label, STMPD RCRDS, which has since become a platform for both his releases and those of emerging artists. Critics argue that the feud may have been exaggerated to generate buzz around his transition to independence, ensuring a seamless continuation of his brand dominance.