Hardwell Reveals Avicii Wanted Him to Collaborate On “Bromance”

During a Tomorrowland 2025 interview, Hardwell dropped a story—the kind that makes you pause and imagine an alternate universe for dance music.

The Dutch DJ told One World Radio’s Adam K that he was originally approached by Avicii to collaborate on what would become one of the late producer’s most defining early tracks: “Bromance.” Released in 2010 under Avicii’s real name, Tim Bergling, and later reissued as “Seek Bromance,” the track marked a pivotal moment for progressive house. With its soaring synths and melodic build, it carved out a new emotional lane in EDM and helped solidify Avicii as a future icon.

“In the first place, people don’t know ‘Bromance’ was a collab between Tim and myself,” Hardwell shared, adding that he had to turn down the opportunity due to commitments at the time. This was roughly two years before his own global breakthrough with “Spaceman.” It’s hard not to think about what that version of “Bromance” might’ve sounded like—Hardwell’s anthemic energy fused with Avicii’s melodic genius. A dancefloor dream that never got pressed to wax.

The revelation landed in the emotional shadow of Tomorrowland’s tribute to Avicii: a new 144-square-meter audiovisual installation honoring his legacy. It’s been ten years since his final Mainstage performance and seven since his passing, but the emotional weight of what he left behind still resonates deeply.

Hardwell’s anecdote isn’t just a fun bit of trivia. It’s a reminder of how fleeting collaboration can be in this scene—how easily one conversation or scheduling conflict can rewrite the soundtrack of an entire generation. Even years later, the what-ifs echo. And this one stings a little more than most.