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Feeling Free review: Henny Vonk made beautiful music and is a valuable addition to the Dutch jazz canon

Feeling Free review: Henny Vonk made beautiful music and is a valuable addition to the Dutch jazz canon

The Nederlands Jazz Archief has released Feeling Free, a collection of previously unheard recordings by the late Dutch jazz musician and poet Henny Vonk. This release serves as a significant tribute to her artistic legacy and her overlooked contributions to the Dutch jazz canon.

The late Henny Vonk, a talented singer, bassist, and poet, is being honored with a new album titled Feeling Free, released by the Nederlands Jazz Archief. Vonk, who moved from Paramaribo to Amsterdam as a child, was a prominent figure in the Dutch jazz scene during the 1970s but had largely faded from public view before her passing at age 88. The new compilation features previously unreleased material, including spiritual jazz suites from a 1971 Loosdrecht performance and archival recordings from the World Broadcasting Service dating back to 1969. In addition to her musical contributions, the album showcases her work as a poet, featuring collaborations with actor Hans Veerman. These tracks highlight her unique artistic voice, ranging from traditional jazz arrangements to protest ballads and creative covers of popular songs. Her story and musical legacy now serve as an essential addition to the history of jazz in the Netherlands. A documentary regarding her life, Rerootin’ Henny Vonk, is scheduled to premiere in December at Het Ketelhuis.

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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