What a party it was last weekend in the always charming Grolloo!
Under a radiant summer sun, the 2025 edition of the Holland International Blues Festival took place on Friday, and the atmosphere was just what you’d expect from a festival in the heart of Drenthe: friendly, warm, and full of love for music.
More than just blues
This year’s festival was notable for its broader scope. With the addition of a second stage and a revamped program, there was room for related styles like Americana and Country, alongside pure blues.
This allowed the festival to attract an even wider audience without losing touch with its roots. A breath of fresh air also came from new presenter Hilde Vos, who charmingly curated the program.
From legendary to surprisingly fresh
The grand finale came from none other than blues legend Bonnie Raitt, who, with her warm voice, subtle class, and razor-sharp slide guitar, delivered an unforgettable show.
The Robert Cray Band delivered a stylish and soulful performance, while Margo Price provided goosebump-inducing moments with her raw, rootsy Americana.
Robert Finley blew the audience away with his deep voice and charisma.
Hans La Faille, with his C+B project, which Ralph de Jongh visibly enjoyed on stage, delivered a musical tribute that came straight from the heart.
On the second stage, acts like Pokey LaFarge, Early James, JD Clayton, and Jenny Don’t and The Spurs added a touch of color to the festival, with roots music that swung, surprised, and resonated.
Energy, Emotion, and a Musical Anniversary
Saturday was packed with highlights. Kaleo delivered an explosive set full of raw energy, while Seasick Steve effortlessly captivated the audience with his charming simplicity and handmade guitars.
Melissa Etheridge brought power, passion, and personality—a performance you could feel right down to your toes.
D.K. Harrell was the revelation of the day. His classic blues style, tight guitar playing, and conviction made a deep impression. Connor Selby confirmed his status as a promising British roots singer.
Jesper Lindell, The Heavy Heavy, and Tami Neilson, in turn, brought fresh sounds, each with their own unique twist to the festival palette.
The Leif de Leeuw Band provided a solid dose of Southern rock with a Dutch twist.
The second day kicked off with a performance by Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton, who treated the audience to a personal and humorous set on his birthday, full of ragtime, folk, and blues from a bygone era.
Were you there in Grolloo? Share your story!
The Holland International Blues Festival 2025 was a weekend full of sun, atmosphere, and fantastic music – from the greats to new faces.
Were you there? What was your highlight? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear your fondest memories of this edition!
See you next year!
The Holland International Blues Festival proved in 2025 that it’s more than just a collection of performances.
A weekend where music connects, the sun makes everything more beautiful, and Grolloo, Drenthe, briefly becomes the world heart of blues.
Excellently organized – and we’re already counting down to next year: June 19th and 20th, 2026.
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