René Schuurmans received a diamond record for his single “Laat de zon in je hart” on the television program De Oranjezondag hosted by Hélène Hendriks, Omroep Brabant reported. The award recognizes tracks that surpass fifty million streams, a milestone the Sint-Michielsgestel singer reached nearly twenty years after the track’s original release.
Streams Push Single Past Fifty Million
Spotify figures for the track exceed 54 million streams, while the accompanying music video on YouTube has drawn more than 17 million views. Schuurmans noted that he monitored the streaming counter as it approached the threshold. “I had already seen that the song had well passed the fifty million streams,” he said according to Omroep Brabant. “So the moment had to come sometime, but I didn’t expect it.”
The latest certification follows a prior milestone for the track. In 2022, Schuurmans accepted a platinum award after “Laat de zon in je hart” crossed 20 million streams.
Streaming Longevity Defies Industry Norms
Released in 2007, the single continues to grow in popularity despite the passage of nearly two decades. “I don’t understand it myself,” Schuurmans told Omroep Brabant, pointing to the song’s message. “With many records, people are done with them after a few months, but this one keeps getting bigger almost twenty years later. There is so much going on in the world. The lyrics ‘enjoy life’ apparently appeal to a lot of people. It is unprecedented.”
Under current certification rules established in January 2024, a diamond record is awarded to singles that reach at least 50 million streams, and to albums that hit 200 million streams.
Brabant Artists Claim Diamond Honors
Schuurmans joins a select group of regional artists to receive the diamond distinction. In early 2024, Flemming became the first Dutch artist to secure a diamond record for a debut album. Rob Kemps from Best, the face of the act Snollebollekes, has also achieved diamond status.
As for the physical award, Schuurmans intends to display it at home. “I still have to hammer a nail into the wall somewhere, but I have to think about where,” he told Omroep Brabant.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Diamond Award
When was Laat de zon in je hart originally released?
The single was released in 2007 and has since accumulated over 54 million streams on Spotify and more than 17 million views on YouTube.
What are the streaming requirements for a diamond record in the Netherlands?
Since January 1, 2024, a diamond record is issued for singles that achieve a minimum of 50 million streams and albums that reach 200 million streams.
Which other regional artists hold diamond certifications?
Flemming received a diamond record in early 2024 for his debut album, becoming the first Dutch artist to reach that threshold. Rob Kemps also holds such an award.
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