Blues lovers can enjoy themselves again this Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the Asser Blues Days. Because in 2024 the blues is still alive and kicking, says Jan Postma, chairman of the Blues Foundation Assen.
Hello Jan, this year is already the 37th edition of the Asser Blues Days. Is there anything new under the sun?
“Well, not really. But that is the power behind the event, that people know what to expect every year. The Asser Blues Days have become a regular fixture in the city. It’s free, that appeals to people, and the catering industry and the municipality are happy that we are organizing something in January. That is normally a fairly weak month, of course, especially for the catering industry. Since the 1980s, the Blues Days have gradually grown into what they are today, with blues in cafes, shops and restaurants. And every year the catering entrepreneurs want to participate again.”
Is blues still alive in Drenthe?
“Yes, blues is inextricably linked to Drenthe. Assen remains the blues city of Drenthe, in the spirit of Harry Muskee and Cuby & The Blizzards. Of course, Grolloo was also made great when it comes to blues, especially by Johan Derksen. But Harry Muskee was born in Assen. Moreover, he was one of the founders, together with café owner Jaap Geerts.”
Which artists are on the program this year?
“We always ensure that there is enough variety. For example, Erwin Nyhoff plays in café Autischeq on Saturday afternoon. He toured the theaters with Sean Webster and Erwin Java, among others. The latter was a guitarist in Cuby & The Blizzards. We also have Jon Amor Trio from England and Doghouse Sam & his Magnatones from Belgium. We always try to arrange something special, also from other countries. We like a bit of quality.”
Blues is an old genre. Is the music still alive among the youth?
“The blues will certainly pass on to the younger generations, we see that the youth are coming. For example, we have a talent stage in Podium Zuidhaege. Students from Dr. Nassau College. These are final exam students who have to do a music assignment. They play different genres, but mainly blues. Very nice, really young talent. And look at the boys from No King, who play in Zusjes De Boer. These are guys in their twenties, and they play the blues. That attracts a young audience.”
The Asser Blues Days take place from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 January at various locations in the city center. Entrance is free. More information: www.bluesassen.nl .