The song’s lyrics revolve around the profound sense of longing and the "survival" one feels during unrequited love or after a deep romantic loss.

Hoogkamer’s live version emphasizes a "schlager" and "nederpop" vibe, characterized by strong audience participation and a focus on his "velvet vibrato" rather than purely digital synthesizers. Reception and Impact

Hoogkamer used this song to open his sold-out shows at the Rotterdam Ahoy arena , setting a tone of triumph and high energy for the evening.

Analysis of Mart Hoogkamer’s "This Is What It Feels Like (Live)"

The performance was so well-received that it was officially released on the Live In Ahoy 2022 album on November 11, 2022 via NRGY Music and Armada Music. This Is What It Feels Like (Live In Ahoy 2022)

The lyrics describe feeling "lonely and disconnected," questioning how one survives without their partner.

While Hoogkamer is primarily known for Dutch levenslied (folk) and viral ballads like "Unchained Melody," his choice of an Armin van Buuren cover demonstrates his versatility and ability to command a stadium-sized audience.