Axwell & Shapov’s 2016 anthem ‘Belong’ turns 2 years old

“Belong” from Swedish icon Axwell and Russian star Shapov is not an ordinary Axtone Records release. With humble beginnings as far back as 2014, “Belong (Original Mix)” and the chart topper “Belong (Axwell and Years Remode)” are a twosome that will come to commemorate a style and memorable Axtone release.  The track rose up to become one of summer 2016’s great hits and still holds a special place in the hearts of progressive house lovers everywhere.

The duo release came as a long awaited single and remix collection for well over a year. In August of 2014 as the Russian maverick Shapov was making huge strides with his pristine production abilities and ear for a hit, the first previews of “Belong” surfaced. As the months rolled by it was apparent that Axwell was behind the helm with the release as well and the magical pair continued to hype the release all the way into the heat of the summer in 2016. In July of 2015 Shapov joined Axwell & Ingrosso on stage to play the song in true fashion. Fans and fellow producers alike all knew the song was unique, with its captivating vocal that had been drifting mysteriously around the web paired up with what would become “Dawn”, and many more ID’s, it was truly special. It had been a long time since Axtone fans had become as excited about a release before.

As spring 2016 rolled around the hype grew even more as it appeared Axwell had spearheaded an idea with Norwegian talent Years to make a “remode” of the track. Axwell himself is a pioneer of the “remode” designation and brought the Swedish slang (mode means “cool”, “sick”, or “dope” in Swedish generally) to the forefront of dance music. With both the original and the superbly melodic “Axwell and Years Remode” circulating around the web, the overwhelming cry for a release was louder than ever. The Remode version went on to become a staple in the sets of many producers with its euphoric melody and rustic guitar breakdown that leads right into pure dance music hedonism. When the tracks popped up on Axtone Smörgåsbord mixes and live show rips, it was becoming more apparent a release date was near. Both singles dropped on August 6 on Axtone Records.

A global music video challenge was sparked in order to give amateur music video directors a chance to shine. Axwell partnered with Revolt.Tv to reveal the winner. A thorough remix package was released in the fall that included remixes by D.O.D, Aguelando, Nomis, and Husp.

Reminiscence in some Axtone magic below with the entrancing Axwell & Years Remode of “Belong” below!