The Netherlands’ Eurovision 2024 singer Joost Klein is going from strength to strength. After smashing Duncan Laurence’s streaming record in the Netherlands and topping the Spotify Top 50 at home, the “Europapa” singer has proven that he can deliver when it matters most: LIVE!
On Thursday the Dutch star performed his song “Europapa” live for the first time at 013 Poppodium Tilburg. It’s the largest popular music venue in the south of the country.
If you’ve been on the social media site formerly known as Twitter or any Eurovision-related message board, then you already know the verdict: Joost absolutely killed it.
Joost Klein performs “Europapa” live for the first time at 013 in Tilburg
The venue stipulated “no phones” on the night, helping keep the performance a surprise for the masses outside of the venue. The black and white video starts with a voiceover that reminds the audience of that rule — while also promising great things to come.
“Welcome to the new world,” the narrator says. “What you are about to witness is beyond human comprehension. Please respect the no filming policy. During this show you will feel emotions. We only have this moment. Right here.”
Throughout the video the audience sings along, creating a powerful wall of sound that shows just how much Joost is loved in his home country.
Vocally he really nails it — his voice sounds strong, resonant and completely at ease. He’s been practicing his breathing technique and it really shows. At no point did he seem winded or struggling to keep up. In fact, the rap sounded vigorous and energetic. And he even managed to cram in lots of personality through cute vocal inflections and selected emphasis.
Occasionally the word “Euro” came out a bit froggy. But you get the sense it was deliberate and playful.
So how are you feeling about this? Do you think the audience outside of The Netherlands will respond in a similar way?
