singletjes

Singletjes is a Dutch term used to refer to music singles, typically the short releases issued to promote a song. The diminutive form singeltje signals a small or concise product, and the plural singletjes is common in Dutch-speaking music contexts.

Historically, singletjes were most closely associated with the 7-inch vinyl single format. In the Netherlands and Flanders, these releases commonly appeared on 7-inch records at 45 rpm, featuring an A-side with the lead track and a B-side with one or more additional tracks. Some releases used a double-A side, where both songs received promotion on the radio and in charts. The physical presentation often included a sleeve or illustrated cover, making singletjes collectible items for fans.

The primary purpose of singeltjes was to market individual songs, facilitate radio airplay, and drive chart performance, often preceding or accompanying an album release. They played a central role in the music industry before the dominance of albums and, later, digital distribution. With the shift to CDs and digital formats, the importance of physical singeltjes declined, but the concept continues to be referenced in music history and journalism.

In contemporary usage, the term can also denote a digital single or a general short release, especially in discussions of Dutch-language pop, rock, and indie music. Collectors may still distinguish between traditional 7-inch singeltjes and other formats based on physical characteristics and era.

See also: Single (music), Vinyl record, 7-inch single, A-side, B-side.