Hazes & BB King: A Blues Tribute Show | Fabian Jansen & Kevin Davy White

The intersection of Dutch *levenslied* (life song) and American blues comes to life this spring with “Blues, Zweet & Tranen” – “Blues, Sweat & Tears” – a modern stage production exploring the shared musical roots of André Hazes and B.B. King. The show, scheduled to open March 13th in De Leest, Amsterdam, and March 27th in Deventer, isn’t a historical recreation, but a reimagining of a connection forged through hardship and expressed through music. Both artists, despite vastly different cultural backgrounds, found solace and a path out of poverty through their art.

A Shared Language of Struggle

André Hazes, a hugely popular figure in the Netherlands, was known for his emotionally raw and relatable songs about everyday life, love, and loss. Even as often categorized as Dutch *levenslied*, Hazes himself deeply identified with the blues. The production highlights this affinity, suggesting the blues wasn’t merely an influence, but a fundamental element of his musical identity. Like B.B. King, Hazes’s music resonated with audiences because it spoke to universal experiences of struggle and resilience. The show aims to demonstrate how both artists channeled personal pain into powerfully emotive performances.

The concept for “Blues, Zweet & Tranen” originated with Thijs Borsten, who also leads the musical direction for the production. Borsten’s band will provide the musical foundation for the show, bringing together the distinct sounds of Dutch *levenslied* and American blues. The script and direction are handled by Kiki Jaski, known for her work in music theatre.

Bringing the Icons to Life

Fabian Jansen takes on the challenging role of André Hazes. This isn’t Jansen’s first time portraying the Dutch singer; he has performed as Hazes over 300 times in the successful production “Hij Gelooft in Mij” (“He Believes in Me”). This extensive experience will likely inform his nuanced portrayal of Hazes’s stage presence and emotional depth. Deventer Schouwburg notes Jansen’s familiarity with the role as a key element of the production’s appeal.

The role of B.B. King is entrusted to Kevin Davy White, a British blues guitarist and singer who is traveling from London specifically for the production. White’s expertise in the blues tradition is expected to lend authenticity to the portrayal of the legendary guitarist. His participation underscores the production’s commitment to honoring King’s musical legacy.

Beyond Imitation: A Dialogue of Two Artists

“Blues, Zweet & Tranen” isn’t simply a tribute concert or biographical retelling. The production aims to create a dialogue between Hazes and King, imagining a collaboration where the two artists perform their greatest hits together. KIK Productions, the company behind the show, describes it as a “raw, moving show full of soul, life song and emotion.” This suggests a focus on the emotional core of both artists’ music, rather than strict biographical accuracy.

The production team includes Doraly Vermeulen on bass, Stefan Blankestijn on guitar, and Arno van Nieuwenhuize on drums, alongside Thijs Borsten on keyboards. Rijk Jacobs is responsible for the technical aspects of the show, and Merlijn Doomernik provided the photography. The creative team’s combined experience suggests a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

The Enduring Appeal of the Blues

The choice to focus on the connection between Hazes and B.B. King speaks to the enduring power and universality of the blues. Originating in the African American communities of the Deep South in the late 19th century, the blues evolved from work songs, spirituals, and field hollers. It’s characterized by its distinctive chord progressions, melancholic melodies, and often deeply personal lyrics. De Leest highlights how the blues became the “soundtrack of life” for Hazes, a sentiment that resonates with many listeners across cultures and generations.

The blues’ influence extends far beyond its origins, shaping genres like rock and roll, jazz, and R&B. Artists like B.B. King helped to popularize the blues internationally, inspiring countless musicians and captivating audiences with his virtuosity and emotional depth. The production’s exploration of Hazes’s connection to the blues underscores the genre’s lasting impact on global music culture.

Looking Ahead: A Celebration of Musical Legacy

“Blues, Zweet & Tranen” promises to be more than just a performance; it’s an exploration of shared human experiences expressed through the language of music. The production’s success will likely depend on its ability to authentically capture the spirit of both artists and create a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences. Following the initial performances in De Leest and Deventer, further tour dates or potential recordings haven’t been announced, but the production’s reception will likely influence future plans. The show offers a unique opportunity to witness a reimagining of a fascinating musical connection, celebrating the legacies of two iconic artists who found strength and expression through their art.