The History of Fingerpoppin Soul
A year by year account of the history of Fingerpoppin Soul
A year by year account of the history of Fingerpoppin Soul
Hey now, hey now, it's Fingerpoppin' time ".
It's the 1972 version of Hank Ballard’s song "Fingerpoppin' time" that opens every episode of Fingerpoppin Soul. A short year to year account of Fingerpoppin' Soul highlights.
1993
On Sunday june 13 1993 Harry joined Hans on his already existing weekly “Teenbeat” show. The name “Teenbeat” was permanently changed to “Fingerpoppin Soul” on September 10 1995. Pretty soon H & H started to meet and interview legendary artists . The first ever interview was with musicians Roland Alphonso and Tommy McCook of The Skatalites on September 12.
In november we visited the already long established Blues Estafette in Utrecht . The organizer of this annual event was the very knowledgable Jaap Hindriks. He brought over artists to the Netherlands that you couldn't have imagined to ever see live. On our first visit to the Blues Estafette we saw and met Little Milton, Art Neville and Irma Thomas !
1994
Our first “official” interview (arranged by the record company) was in May 1994 with Carleen Anderson for the release of her album “True Spirit”.
In October we conducted a very memorable interview with Percy Sledge about his latest album “Blue Night”. We ended up with Percy in the hotel bar where we enjoyed our drinks. When the record company executive asked Percy repeatedly to go back to his room he replied with “No man I'm enjoying myself here !”
The Blues Estafette in november was excellent as ever with artists like Johnny Adams, Earl King, Rosco Gordon and super showman Bobby Rush!
The year ended on dec 31st with a Skanking gig by “The Godfather of Ska” Laurel Aitken.
1995
On feb 19 we invited record collector Mr Tom de Jong to the studio to present the first of his many knowledgable guest spots.
In march we interviewed Mighty Sam McClain who performed at the Amsterdam Blues Festival.
On june 4 we celebrated our 100th show with a lot of guests and DJ colleagues.
The weekend of 14-16 july we visited both the North Sea Jazz Festival in The Hague and the Peer R n B Festival in Belgium !
During that weekend we met several legends in person. We met The Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Soul Stirrers, Hank Ballard ( who was happy to receive our Radio show poster with him and the Midnighters on it) , Ike Turner (who turned out to be very friendly :) and thanks to his expert timing Hans took a picture of Harry and James Brown just after Mr Brown came offstage dripping in sweat !
In August we met former James Brown Revue artists Bobby Byrd and Vicki Anderson.
In november we conducted interviews with Dennis Edwards and Oleta Adams.
The Blues Estafette that year was slowly turning into the Soul Estafette with artists like Sugar Pie DeSanto, Clifford Curry, Roscoe Shelton, Earl Gaines, Lavelle White, Cookie and the Cupcakes and the only performance in the Netherlands by Tyrone Davis ! During this Estafette we met MC Ready Teddy McQuiston from New Orleans who also guested on our show on nov 26. He did his famous trick of queing up a record while standing on his head!
1996
On April 21 of 1996 we had the first of many guest spots by music journalist Kees Smallegange who is and always was on top of the new releases.
On May 5 we met and interviewed Memphis Soul legend Rufus Thomas who was in Utrecht for an open air Liberation Day festival and who was managed at the time by the equally legendary Freddy Cousart. Freddy trusted us with Rufus to eat some Chicken Wings at a local Utrecht restaurant.
1996 was also the breakthrough year for new R n B star Maxwell .We were among the first to interview him on May 16.
Legendary artists again at the Peer R n B festival in July; Little Richard , Bo Diddley and Solomon Burke (who was very hospitable to us in his dressing room).
Some more gigs we attended; Michael Jackson (in the just opened Amsterdam Arena), Morris Day and the Time and Rufus Thomas once again on October 11.
1997
In February we were contracted by Jazz Radio to present Fingerpoppin Soul on this national radio station. This meant we had to do Fingerpoppin Soul twice every Sunday night (with a different playlist as well!).
The first show from 19-20h was presented from the studio in Hilversum and the second show from 22-24h presented from our studio on the Rembrandtplein in Amsterdam.
This Jazz Radio adventure didn't last long though already on July 6 we presented our last show for them. Jazz Radio was rebranded into JFK Radio (Jazzy Funky Kool) which later abandoned its music format and morphed into Business News Radio (BNR).
In february we saw a stunning performance by Maxwell in Paradiso. On March 25 we did an interview with Mavis Staples and on June 1 we interviewed Rahsaan Patterson. In the Hague in the open air we saw gigs by The Dixie Hummingbirds, Adriana Evans and Eric Benet (as part of the Pre North Sea Jazz gig on july 10).
On October 4 we were delighted to do a DJ set as a warm up for an excellent gig by Swamp Dogg at Paradiso, Amsterdam.
In the autumn of 1997 we also started our first website! On November 22 we travelled to Utrecht again for the annual Blues Estafette. This time we saw Willie Clayton, Syl Johnson, Earl “Speedo” Carroll & the Cadillacs and Earl Gaines. The following day we had MC Ready Teddy on our show again !
It's the 1972 version of Hank Ballard’s song "Fingerpoppin' time" that opens every episode of Fingerpoppin Soul. A short year to year account of Fingerpoppin' Soul highlights.
1993
On Sunday june 13 1993 Harry joined Hans on his already existing weekly “Teenbeat” show. The name “Teenbeat” was permanently changed to “Fingerpoppin Soul” on September 10 1995. Pretty soon H & H started to meet and interview legendary artists . The first ever interview was with musicians Roland Alphonso and Tommy McCook of The Skatalites on September 12.
In november we visited the already long established Blues Estafette in Utrecht . The organizer of this annual event was the very knowledgable Jaap Hindriks. He brought over artists to the Netherlands that you couldn't have imagined to ever see live. On our first visit to the Blues Estafette we saw and met Little Milton, Art Neville and Irma Thomas !
1994
Our first “official” interview (arranged by the record company) was in May 1994 with Carleen Anderson for the release of her album “True Spirit”.
In October we conducted a very memorable interview with Percy Sledge about his latest album “Blue Night”. We ended up with Percy in the hotel bar where we enjoyed our drinks. When the record company executive asked Percy repeatedly to go back to his room he replied with “No man I'm enjoying myself here !”
The Blues Estafette in november was excellent as ever with artists like Johnny Adams, Earl King, Rosco Gordon and super showman Bobby Rush!
The year ended on dec 31st with a Skanking gig by “The Godfather of Ska” Laurel Aitken.
1995
On feb 19 we invited record collector Mr Tom de Jong to the studio to present the first of his many knowledgable guest spots.
In march we interviewed Mighty Sam McClain who performed at the Amsterdam Blues Festival.
On june 4 we celebrated our 100th show with a lot of guests and DJ colleagues.
The weekend of 14-16 july we visited both the North Sea Jazz Festival in The Hague and the Peer R n B Festival in Belgium !
During that weekend we met several legends in person. We met The Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Soul Stirrers, Hank Ballard ( who was happy to receive our Radio show poster with him and the Midnighters on it) , Ike Turner (who turned out to be very friendly :) and thanks to his expert timing Hans took a picture of Harry and James Brown just after Mr Brown came offstage dripping in sweat !
In August we met former James Brown Revue artists Bobby Byrd and Vicki Anderson.
In november we conducted interviews with Dennis Edwards and Oleta Adams.
The Blues Estafette that year was slowly turning into the Soul Estafette with artists like Sugar Pie DeSanto, Clifford Curry, Roscoe Shelton, Earl Gaines, Lavelle White, Cookie and the Cupcakes and the only performance in the Netherlands by Tyrone Davis ! During this Estafette we met MC Ready Teddy McQuiston from New Orleans who also guested on our show on nov 26. He did his famous trick of queing up a record while standing on his head!
1996
On April 21 of 1996 we had the first of many guest spots by music journalist Kees Smallegange who is and always was on top of the new releases.
On May 5 we met and interviewed Memphis Soul legend Rufus Thomas who was in Utrecht for an open air Liberation Day festival and who was managed at the time by the equally legendary Freddy Cousart. Freddy trusted us with Rufus to eat some Chicken Wings at a local Utrecht restaurant.
1996 was also the breakthrough year for new R n B star Maxwell .We were among the first to interview him on May 16.
Legendary artists again at the Peer R n B festival in July; Little Richard , Bo Diddley and Solomon Burke (who was very hospitable to us in his dressing room).
Some more gigs we attended; Michael Jackson (in the just opened Amsterdam Arena), Morris Day and the Time and Rufus Thomas once again on October 11.
1997
In February we were contracted by Jazz Radio to present Fingerpoppin Soul on this national radio station. This meant we had to do Fingerpoppin Soul twice every Sunday night (with a different playlist as well!).
The first show from 19-20h was presented from the studio in Hilversum and the second show from 22-24h presented from our studio on the Rembrandtplein in Amsterdam.
This Jazz Radio adventure didn't last long though already on July 6 we presented our last show for them. Jazz Radio was rebranded into JFK Radio (Jazzy Funky Kool) which later abandoned its music format and morphed into Business News Radio (BNR).
In february we saw a stunning performance by Maxwell in Paradiso. On March 25 we did an interview with Mavis Staples and on June 1 we interviewed Rahsaan Patterson. In the Hague in the open air we saw gigs by The Dixie Hummingbirds, Adriana Evans and Eric Benet (as part of the Pre North Sea Jazz gig on july 10).
On October 4 we were delighted to do a DJ set as a warm up for an excellent gig by Swamp Dogg at Paradiso, Amsterdam.
In the autumn of 1997 we also started our first website! On November 22 we travelled to Utrecht again for the annual Blues Estafette. This time we saw Willie Clayton, Syl Johnson, Earl “Speedo” Carroll & the Cadillacs and Earl Gaines. The following day we had MC Ready Teddy on our show again !
1998
On Sunday april 26 we celebrated our 250th show already! In May we started our collaboration with “In the Basement” (UK Soul magazine from Brighton).
The first thing editor David Cole asked was our current Soul top 10. This was the first time we appeared in print.
Interesting to note is that both our names were misspelt in the magazine: Harry van Liet and Hans Deipstraten.
On Sunday april 26 we celebrated our 250th show already! In May we started our collaboration with “In the Basement” (UK Soul magazine from Brighton).
The first thing editor David Cole asked was our current Soul top 10. This was the first time we appeared in print.
Interesting to note is that both our names were misspelt in the magazine: Harry van Liet and Hans Deipstraten.
In the years to follow we did many interviews and articles for In the Basement. Our first two music related trips were both to the UK and both to see the legendary Singer/Songwriter Sam Dees! On October 4 we saw Sam Dees at the Jazz Cafe in London and two weeks later we saw and met him again at the Soul Essence Weekender in Great Yarmouth. At this wonderful long running weekender we met a lot of like minded music lovers.
Hans & Harry with snooker legend Steve Davis. Back then he was an avid soul collector. Nowadays he is into Techno and is making a name as DJ Thunder Muscle...
On November 21 we enjoyed another great Blues Estafette this time with stunning performances by Rosco Robinson, Earl Gaines and Betty Lavette.
1999
On January 10 we had Tony Cook (long time drummer for James Brown) as a special guest on our show. He was introduced to us by James Brown connaisseur Rene Oudenhoven.
In february our first Vinyl Spotlight article was published in In the Basement magazine. The album spotlight was an album by Phil Flowers “Our man in Washington”.
We consequently interviewed Phil (by phone) and this article was published in in the Basement magazine No 14 (we met Phil in person in july 2000).
Arthur Conley serving a healthy salad
In june we interviewed Arthur Conley who lived in the Netherlands for quite some time. We were invited by Arthur to come to his house in Ruurlo where we received a warm welcome and a home cooked meal ! The interview with Arthur Conley was published in In the Basement magazine issue 15.
The flyer of the legenday Dells concert in Stoke on Trent
Two rare Italian picture sleeve Dells 45s
In july another trip to the UK to see the legendary Dells in concert . This gig is still in our Top 10 best Soul gigs ever.
On September 23 we saw a stunning gig by Betty Lavette in Vredenburg ( Kleine zaal) . This gig was recorded by Munich Records and released as a live CD.
Another great episode of the Blues Estafette took place on November 20 with artists Charles Wilson, Barbara Carr and Bobby Patterson.
This year also was the first year our DJ friends from the UK came over to do wonderful guest spots: Dave Thomas (March 7), Ben Summers (May 2) and Colin Brown (Sep 5) .
The year ended on a sad note ...our Main Man Curtis Mayfield died on December 26
On September 23 we saw a stunning gig by Betty Lavette in Vredenburg ( Kleine zaal) . This gig was recorded by Munich Records and released as a live CD.
Another great episode of the Blues Estafette took place on November 20 with artists Charles Wilson, Barbara Carr and Bobby Patterson.
This year also was the first year our DJ friends from the UK came over to do wonderful guest spots: Dave Thomas (March 7), Ben Summers (May 2) and Colin Brown (Sep 5) .
The year ended on a sad note ...our Main Man Curtis Mayfield died on December 26
Hans & Harry guesting on Richard Searlings Jazz FM radio show
2000
On January 23 we were invited by Richard Searling to do a two hour guestspot on his radioshow on Jazz FM in Manchester.
Because of Richard Searlings large audience that 2 hour spot gave us a lot of exposure in the UK with many new friends and connections.
Richard is still (just like us!) producing inspiring radioshows now on Solar Radio.
On March 12 we had the legendary Leon Ware on our Fingerpoppin Soul radioshow No 348. Leon stayed for the full two hours and shared some great stories with us!
In the may issue of In the Basement magazine (issue 18) we published an article on Mike James Kirkland. We spoke to him on the phone and finally got to meet him in person in october 2015 in Bilbao.
In july we went to New York City to be a guest on another legendary radioshow with Felix Hernandez on Jammin 105 FM.
On January 23 we were invited by Richard Searling to do a two hour guestspot on his radioshow on Jazz FM in Manchester.
Because of Richard Searlings large audience that 2 hour spot gave us a lot of exposure in the UK with many new friends and connections.
Richard is still (just like us!) producing inspiring radioshows now on Solar Radio.
On March 12 we had the legendary Leon Ware on our Fingerpoppin Soul radioshow No 348. Leon stayed for the full two hours and shared some great stories with us!
In the may issue of In the Basement magazine (issue 18) we published an article on Mike James Kirkland. We spoke to him on the phone and finally got to meet him in person in october 2015 in Bilbao.
In july we went to New York City to be a guest on another legendary radioshow with Felix Hernandez on Jammin 105 FM.
On our trip to New York we guested on Felix Hernandez' show on Jammin' 105
On the right us with the walking soul encyclopedia Stephen Nicholas and Timothy Wilson
We met Phil Flowers in person in Washington DC and saw and met Bobby “Blue” Bland at BB King's Blues Club. Our friend Stephen Nicholas introduced us to Timothy Wilson .
We interviewed him and the article was published in In the Basement magazine issue 22.
In october we made another trip to Great Yarmouth for the Soul Essence weekender. We did a DJ set in the Downbeat Lounge.
Inspired by our friends from the UK we decided to start our own gigs in Amsterdam.
The venue was The Casablanca on the Zeedijk (right in the middle of town). The first “Sundays are Soulful” gig was on november 5th . We continued to do these gigs for two years.
Regular DJ's present at almost every Sundays are Soulful were our friends from Brussels Thierry Boulanger and Timmy Leonard.
Also DJ-ing at these legendary nights were Paul Woosnam, Mandy Williams, Hans Plakke, Dennis Probert , Ben Summers, Tom de Jong and many others.
We interviewed him and the article was published in In the Basement magazine issue 22.
In october we made another trip to Great Yarmouth for the Soul Essence weekender. We did a DJ set in the Downbeat Lounge.
Inspired by our friends from the UK we decided to start our own gigs in Amsterdam.
The venue was The Casablanca on the Zeedijk (right in the middle of town). The first “Sundays are Soulful” gig was on november 5th . We continued to do these gigs for two years.
Regular DJ's present at almost every Sundays are Soulful were our friends from Brussels Thierry Boulanger and Timmy Leonard.
Also DJ-ing at these legendary nights were Paul Woosnam, Mandy Williams, Hans Plakke, Dennis Probert , Ben Summers, Tom de Jong and many others.
On november 18th yet another great Blues Estafette with Barbara Lynn , Clay Hammond, Ernie Johnson and Rosco Robinson.
Just some of the guest on our radio show this year David Brown (from Philly Archives) on april 16th, Paul Woosnam on May 7, Jan Kenbeek (aka Midnight Johnny) on July 7, Roel Bentz van den Berg (legendary VPRO radio DJ) on September 10 and Kipper (John Kerr) and Ready Teddy on November 20.
Just some of the guest on our radio show this year David Brown (from Philly Archives) on april 16th, Paul Woosnam on May 7, Jan Kenbeek (aka Midnight Johnny) on July 7, Roel Bentz van den Berg (legendary VPRO radio DJ) on September 10 and Kipper (John Kerr) and Ready Teddy on November 20.
2001
In 2001 we continued with our "Sundays are Soulful" gigs at the Casablanca. These started at 3PM and ran until 3AM. The next day we then had to go to our regular jobs. Needless to say it was hard to keep that up. Our last gig at the Casablanca was on March 3, 2002.
In 2001 we continued with our "Sundays are Soulful" gigs at the Casablanca. These started at 3PM and ran until 3AM. The next day we then had to go to our regular jobs. Needless to say it was hard to keep that up. Our last gig at the Casablanca was on March 3, 2002.
Flyer with an image taken from a Jimmy Dockett LP sleeve
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Timmy Leonard from Brussels playing wonderful tunes at the Casablanca
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Our beautiful flyers were designed by Bastiaan Rijkers (RIP)
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In April we made a trip to the UK. We did a guest spot on the first internet Soul Radio Station based in London, the legendary Soul 24-7.com. We also had the opportunity to visit avid soul collectors and promotors husband and wife Keith & Maxine Woon.
The logo of Soul 24-7.com, a piece of internet history
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H&H with Maxine & Keith Woon at their house
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In October we made yet another trip to the UK. This time we went to the Togetherness weekender in Fleetwood. We saw and met Jimmy Conwell (also of Exits fame) and Gene Chandler.
A rare Spanish picture sleeve 45 by mr Gene Chandler
Gene didn't perform any of his ballads. We would have loved him doing "The girl don't care"...
In November the annual Blues Estafette with this time Kip Anderson, Latimore and the Calvanes. The day after the Estafette we had soul journalist Colin Dilnot as a special guest on our show. Other guests this year: Ben Summers and Mark Allbones. A special mention must also go to Erik van Diemen who was always willing to fill in when we were away.
In November the annual Blues Estafette with this time Kip Anderson, Latimore and the Calvanes. The day after the Estafette we had soul journalist Colin Dilnot as a special guest on our show. Other guests this year: Ben Summers and Mark Allbones. A special mention must also go to Erik van Diemen who was always willing to fill in when we were away.
2002
On January 21 Mark Fisher did his first guest spot on Fingerpoppin Soul # 445. Mark is a soul collector originally from Sheffield, UK but lives in Amsterdam,
Mark is our most invited guest DJ on the show. Even in 2002 he made two more appearances on the show (FPS #445 and #486).
On June 24 Gwen McCrae was a special guest on Fingerpoppin Soul. Our friend from Limburg Marc Janssen arranged her wonderful visit to the studio. A couple o days later (June 29) she performed at the Platte Zaol venue in Maastricht.
On January 21 Mark Fisher did his first guest spot on Fingerpoppin Soul # 445. Mark is a soul collector originally from Sheffield, UK but lives in Amsterdam,
Mark is our most invited guest DJ on the show. Even in 2002 he made two more appearances on the show (FPS #445 and #486).
On June 24 Gwen McCrae was a special guest on Fingerpoppin Soul. Our friend from Limburg Marc Janssen arranged her wonderful visit to the studio. A couple o days later (June 29) she performed at the Platte Zaol venue in Maastricht.
Gwen McCrae shared some amazing stories in the studio
On September 30 we had another exciting guest in the studio: singer/songwriter Prince Phillip Mitchell. We played a lot of his songs as performed by other artists. He was especially surprised and mildly amused when we played him some Jamaican versions of his songs ("Hurt so good" by Susan Cadogan and "Starting all over again" by Hopeton Lewis). The Prince Phillip MItchell visit was arranged by Soul DJ Barry Fowden (check his website).
The Flyer for Phillips' show at the Club Madness in Amsterdam
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Phillip sailing through the streets of Amsterdam in a wooden shoe
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Other regular DJ guests this year were Tom de Jong (FPS #443), John "Kipper" Kerr (FPS #451), Kid Stokkink (FPS #483) and again Colin Dilnot (FPS #487).
2003
In March we celebrated our 500th show! We had a great party in the studio. Our friend Sumy (well known Surinam Soul singer) was also present and gave us each our own microphone. Regular listener (almost from show #1) Arne van Elk sent us a postcard with a picture of all his recorded Fingerpoppin Soul cassettes.
In March we celebrated our 500th show! We had a great party in the studio. Our friend Sumy (well known Surinam Soul singer) was also present and gave us each our own microphone. Regular listener (almost from show #1) Arne van Elk sent us a postcard with a picture of all his recorded Fingerpoppin Soul cassettes.
Sumy presenting us with two Microphones as a gift for our 500th show
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The flyer for our 500th show
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Early listener Arne van Elk sent us a postcard with a picture of his cassette recordings of FPS
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Op Sepember 4 we switched the time slot of our radio show from the Monday to the Thursday night, which is still our regular night today.
On September 21 we witnessed a live performance by the legendary Isley Brothers (now reduced to just Ronald and Ernie). We even got the chance to talk to them after the show!
On September 21 we witnessed a live performance by the legendary Isley Brothers (now reduced to just Ronald and Ernie). We even got the chance to talk to them after the show!
Harry with Ernie and Ronald Isley
Another interesting line-up at the Blues Estafette on November 15. Excellent shows by Lou Pride (he even did "I'm Com'un home in the morn'un), Sam Taylor, Howard Tate and the still gorgeous looking Maxine Brown.
A newspaper advertisement for the Blues Estafette 2003
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Wow! The stunning Maxine Brown in Utrecht still looking gorgeous
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Interesting guest spots this year: long time FPS listener Fred van den Bos (FPS #513), Chris Morgan (FPS #529), and Amsterdam soul collector Piet Hoens (FPS #541).
2004
The year started off excellent on January 8 with a guest spot on Fingerpoppin Soul from up and coming R&B star Ledisi (FPS #545). During the show she asked us "Do you know the Prophet of Soul?". We confirmed we knew him of course because the Prophet of Soul Larry Saunders had been a firm favourite with us for years! She replied "That's my dad guys!". She had never actually seen a picture of him or heard any of his music. Ledisi grew up with her mother and moved to California from Alabama at an early age. The next day after her gig at the Paradiso we gave her all her dad's recordings on a CD-R. Ledisi managed to track down her father and eventually she sent us Larry's phone number. It was early January 2006 exactly two years after the Ledisi guest spot we travelled to Mobile Alabama to meet and interview Larry Sanders himself. The resulting extensive story was then published in David Cole's "In the Basement" magazine issue #42.
The year started off excellent on January 8 with a guest spot on Fingerpoppin Soul from up and coming R&B star Ledisi (FPS #545). During the show she asked us "Do you know the Prophet of Soul?". We confirmed we knew him of course because the Prophet of Soul Larry Saunders had been a firm favourite with us for years! She replied "That's my dad guys!". She had never actually seen a picture of him or heard any of his music. Ledisi grew up with her mother and moved to California from Alabama at an early age. The next day after her gig at the Paradiso we gave her all her dad's recordings on a CD-R. Ledisi managed to track down her father and eventually she sent us Larry's phone number. It was early January 2006 exactly two years after the Ledisi guest spot we travelled to Mobile Alabama to meet and interview Larry Sanders himself. The resulting extensive story was then published in David Cole's "In the Basement" magazine issue #42.
Ledisi with partner Saundra in the Fingerpoppin Soul studio in January 2004
Hans with Ledisi a week before her guest spot in Fleetwood at the soul weekender there
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The flyer for the Soul Singer album
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Harry made a trip to Manchester in May to see and meet one of his all-time favourite artists Bobby Womack.
Womack's UK Tour
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Harry meeting Bobby just after the sound check
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On August 1 we witnessed the legendary Bo Diddley in concert at the Paradiso.
In November we travelled to Belgium for our visit to the TM Club in Houdeng-Goegnies. We saw two totally stunning concerts by Tommy Hunt and Maxine Brown.
In November we travelled to Belgium for our visit to the TM Club in Houdeng-Goegnies. We saw two totally stunning concerts by Tommy Hunt and Maxine Brown.
The flyer for the Maxine Brown / Tommy Hunt gig in Belgium
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From left to right: Hans, Kees Smallegange, Tommy Hunt, Thierry Boulanger and Harry
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On November 13, 2004 we went to the final Blues Estafette in Utrecht. In our opinion the organizer Jaap Hindriks should have had the chance to continue forever with this magnificent festival. The audience was there in strong numbers, the artists were all eager to perform there and the festival was very prestigious. However he did not get the support of the Vredenburg venue management who did not understand just how unique this festival was. A big shame!
On this closing edition we saw Eddie Bo, Willie Walker, Laura Lee and Ellis Hooks.
On this closing edition we saw Eddie Bo, Willie Walker, Laura Lee and Ellis Hooks.
2005
On February 17 we witnessed the first Dutch gig of John Legend in the small upstairs room at the Paradiso. His success was so rapid that already on May 28 he was able to fill the main Paradiso hall.
On February 17 we witnessed the first Dutch gig of John Legend in the small upstairs room at the Paradiso. His success was so rapid that already on May 28 he was able to fill the main Paradiso hall.
Harry presents John Legend with a box full of his favourite picture sleeve 45s
In April we made our second visit to the TM Club in Belgium this time to see Baby Washington and Don Gardner. Also in April Harry flew to London to see and meet Candi Staton. It was her return to R&B after years of doing only Gospel . The gig was very successful so many European tours followed.
The return of Candi Staton to R&B
On June 27 we saw one of the last concerts of BB KIng in the Netherlands and thanks to smooth talking Gerbren Deves who managed to bring us backstage where we had a short chat with this friendly legend.
The flyer for the BB King 89th Birthday tour
More memorable gigs this year by the Neville Brothers, Teddy Riley, Leela James and the Four Tops and the Temptations. At that time G.C. Cameron was a member of the Temptations. We interviewed him mainly about his wonderful solo recordings.
Entertaining guest spots this year by record collector Jaap Barnhoorn (twice: FPS #614 and FPS #630), Pete & Karen Burke (FPS #625) and Amsterdam storyteller and legend Albert Keijser (FPS #627).
Entertaining guest spots this year by record collector Jaap Barnhoorn (twice: FPS #614 and FPS #630), Pete & Karen Burke (FPS #625) and Amsterdam storyteller and legend Albert Keijser (FPS #627).
2006
In the first week of January we flew over to the USA to meet and interview Larry Sanders aka "The Prophet of Soul" in Mobile, Alabama.
Some stunning facts were revealed during this interview.
First of all Larry's father was none other than Johnny Ace! One of his sisters is southern soul singer Lynn White, and of course his daughter is Ledisi. Truly a family of Soul...
The full story can be read in David Cole's "In the Basement" magazine #42.
In the Netherlands VPRO Television became intrigued by Larry's story and in the fall of 2006 a caera crew plus music journalist Gijsbert Kamer flew to Mobile to record a mini documentary about Larry. This was then aired on New Years Eve of 2006 as part of a VPRO Soul Show which also included similar documentaries about Irma Thomas and Bettye Lavette.
In the first week of January we flew over to the USA to meet and interview Larry Sanders aka "The Prophet of Soul" in Mobile, Alabama.
Some stunning facts were revealed during this interview.
First of all Larry's father was none other than Johnny Ace! One of his sisters is southern soul singer Lynn White, and of course his daughter is Ledisi. Truly a family of Soul...
The full story can be read in David Cole's "In the Basement" magazine #42.
In the Netherlands VPRO Television became intrigued by Larry's story and in the fall of 2006 a caera crew plus music journalist Gijsbert Kamer flew to Mobile to record a mini documentary about Larry. This was then aired on New Years Eve of 2006 as part of a VPRO Soul Show which also included similar documentaries about Irma Thomas and Bettye Lavette.
Larry Saunders and his sister Lynn White
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Promo pic of Larry from the Seventies
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Larry and fans
On July 2 we witnessed the last concert by mr James Brown in the Netherlands. The venue was the intimate Paradiso where the stage was certainly too small for his big touring band. Sitting on the balcony we could clearly see that James still enjoyed himself onstage!
The flyer for the 2006 JB gig in Paradiso
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JB at the Paradiso
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In the weekend of July 20-23 we finally made it to the wonderful Porretta Soul Festival in Italy. This was already their 19th edition! Every year main man Graziano Uliani manages to contract artists rarely seen in Europe. This year we saw Irma Thomas, Howard Tate and the Neville Brothers.
Our last Fingerpoppin Soul show from the Rembrandtplein studio was on August 31. Starting in September we broadcast from the new studio at the Piet Hein kade (Pakhuis De Zwijger).
On Harry's birthday November 2 we saw a great gig by New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint at De Melkweg. Allen surprised us all by singing a special funky "Happy Birthday" for Harry. Earlier that day Harry had presented Allen with a "book" of picture sleeve 45's.
More great gigs this year by: Candi Staton, Ken Boothe, Beres Hammond, Anthony Hamilton, Joy Denalane and Barbara Lewis (the latter at the TM Club in Belgium).
Our last Fingerpoppin Soul show from the Rembrandtplein studio was on August 31. Starting in September we broadcast from the new studio at the Piet Hein kade (Pakhuis De Zwijger).
On Harry's birthday November 2 we saw a great gig by New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint at De Melkweg. Allen surprised us all by singing a special funky "Happy Birthday" for Harry. Earlier that day Harry had presented Allen with a "book" of picture sleeve 45's.
More great gigs this year by: Candi Staton, Ken Boothe, Beres Hammond, Anthony Hamilton, Joy Denalane and Barbara Lewis (the latter at the TM Club in Belgium).
2007
In May two legendary artists visited the Netherlands while on tour in Europe: Percy Sledge and Solomon Burke. Of course we saw both these artists live.
On May 28 we witnessed an excellent concert by Ashford & Simpson at the Paradiso. It was great to hear all these classic songs performed by the songwriters themselves.
In June we made a trip to Manchester to first see Candi Staton and Al Green at the MEN Arena and a day later to see Smokey Robinson at the Bridgewater Hall where Harry presented him with two books of picture sleeve 45s. On July 1 we took the plane back to Amsterdam and to our surprise we found that Smokey was on the same flight! On July 2 Smokey performed at the Paradiso and this gig was even better than the one in Manchester, There was even a full string section on stage! Highlight of the evening was the moment Smokey Robinson performed "Tracks of my tears" accompanied only by guitarist Marv Tarplin. The audience was moved to tears...
In May two legendary artists visited the Netherlands while on tour in Europe: Percy Sledge and Solomon Burke. Of course we saw both these artists live.
On May 28 we witnessed an excellent concert by Ashford & Simpson at the Paradiso. It was great to hear all these classic songs performed by the songwriters themselves.
In June we made a trip to Manchester to first see Candi Staton and Al Green at the MEN Arena and a day later to see Smokey Robinson at the Bridgewater Hall where Harry presented him with two books of picture sleeve 45s. On July 1 we took the plane back to Amsterdam and to our surprise we found that Smokey was on the same flight! On July 2 Smokey performed at the Paradiso and this gig was even better than the one in Manchester, There was even a full string section on stage! Highlight of the evening was the moment Smokey Robinson performed "Tracks of my tears" accompanied only by guitarist Marv Tarplin. The audience was moved to tears...
Harry with Smokey Robinson
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The Paradiso flyer
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On September 24 we saw a very entertaining gig by Miami soul legend Clarence Reid a.k.a. Blowfly in the "Maloe Melo", one of the last remaining authentic live venues in Amsterdam.
On November 30 our friend Jos Belt started the Amsterdam Soul Club. This developed into a long running regular night where many DJ's from all over Europe and the UK got to spin their vinyl. After Jos stopped in 2015 the torch was passed on to two groups of soulies who continue putting on soul nights and dayers in Amsterdam until today: Northern Soul Amsterdam and Amsterdam Soulful.
2008
On January 17 we celebrated our 750th show!
At the end of May we flew to the UK to fulfill a long time bucket list item: see the Impressions live! Promotor Mel Nicholls succeeded in bringing over the original members: Sam Gooden, Fred Cash and Reggie Torian and all this just for the one gig in Northampton! We wrote an extensive review of this concert or In the Basement magazine issue 51.
On January 17 we celebrated our 750th show!
At the end of May we flew to the UK to fulfill a long time bucket list item: see the Impressions live! Promotor Mel Nicholls succeeded in bringing over the original members: Sam Gooden, Fred Cash and Reggie Torian and all this just for the one gig in Northampton! We wrote an extensive review of this concert or In the Basement magazine issue 51.
H&H with the Impressions; L-R: Reggie Torian, Hans, Fred Cash, Harry, Sam Gooden
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In July we saw several other soul legends live. In The Hague on July 17 we saw William Bell, The Soul Children and N'Dambi. At the Porretta Soul festival (July 18-20) we saw Mable John, Sugar Pie DeSanto, Joe Simon and Chaka Khan.
Near the end of the year there were more soul gigs in Amsterdam like Maxwell, Al Green and Raphael Saadiq. On November 19 we saw Eli Reed & the True Loves for the first time, what an energy this guy has!
Later we got to know him better and we came to realize there was more to him than just a singer: he was a true Gospel and R&B expert and evangelist with deep knowledge about especially gospel.
Near the end of the year there were more soul gigs in Amsterdam like Maxwell, Al Green and Raphael Saadiq. On November 19 we saw Eli Reed & the True Loves for the first time, what an energy this guy has!
Later we got to know him better and we came to realize there was more to him than just a singer: he was a true Gospel and R&B expert and evangelist with deep knowledge about especially gospel.
2009
In the beginning of 2009 a couple of legendary artists visited the Netherlands:
Marlena Shaw, Booker T & the MG's, Big Jay McNeely (who had a number one R&B hit in 1949(!) with "The Deacon's Hop"), Cameo and FPS favourite Candi Staton.
In June it was time for a new promo flyer for the Radio Show designed by our friend Paul Pollmann and a new logo designed by Leendert Masselink.
In the beginning of 2009 a couple of legendary artists visited the Netherlands:
Marlena Shaw, Booker T & the MG's, Big Jay McNeely (who had a number one R&B hit in 1949(!) with "The Deacon's Hop"), Cameo and FPS favourite Candi Staton.
In June it was time for a new promo flyer for the Radio Show designed by our friend Paul Pollmann and a new logo designed by Leendert Masselink.
In July we flew over to Italy again for the always surprising Porretta Soul Festival. This year the performers were Oscar Toney Jr, Jesse Dee, Vaneese Thomas, Toni Green, Solomon Burke, J. Blackfoot and the emotionally overwhelming brothers Percy and Spencer Wiggins!
Very entertaining guest spots on the radio show this year: Timmy Leonard (FPS #823), Uwe Welsch (a.k.a. DJ Mr Brown) (FPS #827), and Struttin' DJs Taco, Alvin and Bart (FPS #828)
Very entertaining guest spots on the radio show this year: Timmy Leonard (FPS #823), Uwe Welsch (a.k.a. DJ Mr Brown) (FPS #827), and Struttin' DJs Taco, Alvin and Bart (FPS #828)
2010
In February Harry (together with Mandy Williams and Paul Woosnam) took a trip to Washington DC to see the great Jerry Butler live.
Jerry had been performing in Valentine's week for more than 30 years at the Blues Alley club. Hans would later take the same trip in 2011. Also on that trip Harry saw the magnificent Little Anthony & the Imperials in Baltimore.
In February Harry (together with Mandy Williams and Paul Woosnam) took a trip to Washington DC to see the great Jerry Butler live.
Jerry had been performing in Valentine's week for more than 30 years at the Blues Alley club. Hans would later take the same trip in 2011. Also on that trip Harry saw the magnificent Little Anthony & the Imperials in Baltimore.
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In August Hans & Harry made another trip to New York City. We met one of our heroes, Mr. Joe Bataan (thanks to Stephen Nicholas for making it possible!). We had lunch with Joe and shared many great stories.
On the same day (August 6) we went to the Southpaw club in Brooklyn to see the majestic Otis Clay in concert. He was backed by the Revelations, a great band in its own right and Tre Williams & the Revelations also performed a set of their own.
H&H with Brooklyn main man Stephen Nicholas
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Loads more great gigs this year by Lee Fields and Charles Bradley (in Cologne), Marlena Shaw, Ledisi, Dionne Warwick and Aloe Blacc.
2011
In April we we travelled to Germany for the Baltic Soul Weekender. They had put up a great line up with Gloria Scott, Gwen McCrae, Roy Ayers, The Trammps and the mighty Joe Bataan (who we saw for the first time live). Joe Bataan did a great set supported by his own band featuring his wife.
In April we we travelled to Germany for the Baltic Soul Weekender. They had put up a great line up with Gloria Scott, Gwen McCrae, Roy Ayers, The Trammps and the mighty Joe Bataan (who we saw for the first time live). Joe Bataan did a great set supported by his own band featuring his wife.
H&H with Gloria Scott
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Joe Bataan and his wife to the left
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In May Harry made another trip to Germany this time to Oberhausen to see the Whispers in their classic line up: Walter & Wallace Scott, Leaveil Degree and Nicholas Caldwell.
Like The Whispers you should have worn Purple Harry !
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Also in May there was a tribute concert in Amsterdam for Bill Withers in the Carre Hall. With Bill in attendance many artists had chosen songs from his extensive songbook.
The Flyer for the Bill Withers night in Carre
In July we flew to Italy again for the Porretta Soul Festival. Graziano had put together another great bill with William Bell, Toni Green, Percy and Spencer Wiggins, Harvey Scales, Swamp Dogg and Sugar Pie DeSanto.
Back in Amsterdam on july 31 we saw the wonderful Ken Boothe perform for the first time ever in the Netherlands (backed by the skilfull Rude Rich & the High Notes). As ever there were entertaining guest spots this year by regulars Mark Fisher, Kid Stokkink, Kipper and Tom de Jong.
Back in Amsterdam on july 31 we saw the wonderful Ken Boothe perform for the first time ever in the Netherlands (backed by the skilfull Rude Rich & the High Notes). As ever there were entertaining guest spots this year by regulars Mark Fisher, Kid Stokkink, Kipper and Tom de Jong.
2012
The year started with some great gigs by Ledisi (January 23) and D'Angelo (January 31), followed by some more concerts by Lee Fields, Anthony Hamilton and Big Daddy Kane (!).
In July we took our (by now almost annual) trip to the Porretta Soul Festival. This time the line up was The Bo-Keys, The Bar-Kays, Otis Clay, Syl Johnson, Robin McKelle and David Hudson. At the festival we asked David Hudson to come perform at our 1000th show party in December 2012 and he immediately said yes!
Also at this 25th year the editor of "In the Basement" magazine David Cole received the "Sweet Soul Music Award" and our friend and soul journalist Dave Thomas did the honors for him.
The year started with some great gigs by Ledisi (January 23) and D'Angelo (January 31), followed by some more concerts by Lee Fields, Anthony Hamilton and Big Daddy Kane (!).
In July we took our (by now almost annual) trip to the Porretta Soul Festival. This time the line up was The Bo-Keys, The Bar-Kays, Otis Clay, Syl Johnson, Robin McKelle and David Hudson. At the festival we asked David Hudson to come perform at our 1000th show party in December 2012 and he immediately said yes!
Also at this 25th year the editor of "In the Basement" magazine David Cole received the "Sweet Soul Music Award" and our friend and soul journalist Dave Thomas did the honors for him.
David Hudson on stage in Porretta
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Dave Thomas receiving the Sweet Soul music award
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The Zwart Zaad CD cover
On November 1 we had Derick Stadwijk as a special guest on Fingerpoppin Soul. Derick released one of the best Dutch language soul albums of all time in 2008 called "Zwart Zaad" . We invited Derick to perform at our 1000th show party.
And then finally on December 27 we celebrated our 1000th show with a big party at the North Sea Jazz Club.
Artists performing were Derick Stadwijk and David Hudson. Hans & Harry did theit 1000th show live from the venue. Party DJs were Thierry Boulanger and Ben Summers, and visuals were provided by Jos Belt. Overall MC was Kees Smallegage. Needless to say we had a great time, also with so many old and new friends making an appearance. We want to thank everybody who attended and helped to make it a success. Thanks!
Artists performing were Derick Stadwijk and David Hudson. Hans & Harry did theit 1000th show live from the venue. Party DJs were Thierry Boulanger and Ben Summers, and visuals were provided by Jos Belt. Overall MC was Kees Smallegage. Needless to say we had a great time, also with so many old and new friends making an appearance. We want to thank everybody who attended and helped to make it a success. Thanks!
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2013
In early 2013 we started uploading every weekly radio show to Mixcloud. Now everbody worldwide can listen to us at any time!
The year kicked off with a ouple of great gigs at our favourite live venue Paradiso: Betty Weight (Feb 11) and Syleena Johnson (March 27).
In July we made another trip to the Porretta Soul Festival this time to see Mitty Collier, Bobby Rush, Latimore, Charles Walker and the star of the weekend: David Hudson! At the festival we filmed David ourselves proposing to his girlfriend Juanita.
Special guest on FPS #1046 (November 14) was Keith John. Keith is the son of R&B legend Little Willie John and has been a background singer for Stevie Wonder for decades now. He talked about the authorized biography "Fever" written by Susan Whitall about his father and about his many tours with Stevie Wonder.
In early 2013 we started uploading every weekly radio show to Mixcloud. Now everbody worldwide can listen to us at any time!
The year kicked off with a ouple of great gigs at our favourite live venue Paradiso: Betty Weight (Feb 11) and Syleena Johnson (March 27).
In July we made another trip to the Porretta Soul Festival this time to see Mitty Collier, Bobby Rush, Latimore, Charles Walker and the star of the weekend: David Hudson! At the festival we filmed David ourselves proposing to his girlfriend Juanita.
Special guest on FPS #1046 (November 14) was Keith John. Keith is the son of R&B legend Little Willie John and has been a background singer for Stevie Wonder for decades now. He talked about the authorized biography "Fever" written by Susan Whitall about his father and about his many tours with Stevie Wonder.
H&H with Keith John and one of his fathers LPs
On November 23 we saw the Dutch premiere of the Muscle Shoals music documentary. Afterwards we had a chat with the director Greg Camalier.
Interesting guest spots this year were by Peter Corn (FPS 1009), Jason Mackin (FPS #1019) and Chris Morgan (FPS #1051).
Interesting guest spots this year were by Peter Corn (FPS 1009), Jason Mackin (FPS #1019) and Chris Morgan (FPS #1051).
2014
On March 19 we saw Freddy Cole live in concert at the North Sea Jazz Club. The brother of Nat King Cole has a great body of work in his own right!
Special guest on Fingerpoppin Soul #1072 was Eilon Paz author of the vinyl collectors photo book "Dust and Grooves".
On March 19 we saw Freddy Cole live in concert at the North Sea Jazz Club. The brother of Nat King Cole has a great body of work in his own right!
Special guest on Fingerpoppin Soul #1072 was Eilon Paz author of the vinyl collectors photo book "Dust and Grooves".
Eilon Paz from NYC with his wonderful book
Another very special guest on the show came to our studio two weeks later on May 29: Onno Post a.k.a. DJ Moonshine.
Onno spins 78s exclusively and he brought his own Garrard record players to the studio and took over the full two hours with a selection of wonderful R&B, Blues and Gospel 78s. Please check his great show on Mixcloud!
Onno spins 78s exclusively and he brought his own Garrard record players to the studio and took over the full two hours with a selection of wonderful R&B, Blues and Gospel 78s. Please check his great show on Mixcloud!
Hans taking a picture of the special Garrard 78s record players
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Harry with Nick Cobban
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It was a busy year for us with regard to guests because on June 19 we welcomed Nick Cobban to the studio. Nick is a life long music fan who runs his own soul/r&B/R'n'R blog since 2006. Needless to say he entertained us and the listeners with lots of stories and great music. He refused to tell us however where the Fountain of Eternal Youth can be located: he keeps that to himself...
On August 28 (FPS #1087) our special guest was Greg Belson. Greg is the mastermind behind the famous "Divine Chord Gospel Show" and does DJ sets all over the world. The day after we organized a soul night "Ridin' High" at Cafe 16CC in Amsterdam. Three DJ's played their stuff: Greg Belson, Thierry Boulanger and DJ Moonshine. Some amazing music was played!
On August 28 (FPS #1087) our special guest was Greg Belson. Greg is the mastermind behind the famous "Divine Chord Gospel Show" and does DJ sets all over the world. The day after we organized a soul night "Ridin' High" at Cafe 16CC in Amsterdam. Three DJ's played their stuff: Greg Belson, Thierry Boulanger and DJ Moonshine. Some amazing music was played!
Geg Belson in the Fingerpoppin Soul studio
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Onno aka DJ Moonshine & Greg Belson at Cafe 16CC
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On October 14 we saw the Dutch debut of Jarrod Lawson, a promising new talent in R&B.
2015
The first gig of the year (on January 28) turned out to be one great party from the moment they came onstage: Orlando Julius with the Heliocentrics.
On February 26 a very special guest came to the studio courtesy of Peter Corn: mr William Bell himself! We did a two-hour special show with this legendary artist. Please check Mixcloud show #1113.
2015
The first gig of the year (on January 28) turned out to be one great party from the moment they came onstage: Orlando Julius with the Heliocentrics.
On February 26 a very special guest came to the studio courtesy of Peter Corn: mr William Bell himself! We did a two-hour special show with this legendary artist. Please check Mixcloud show #1113.
Hans with William Bell
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William Bell receives a framed 45
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In Fingerpoppin Soul #1119 another special guest took over the show. Expat Russell Gilbert focused on the Loma record label. His website is an excellent source of information on that subject.
July 9 saw another UK soul collector making his Fingerpoppin Soul debut: Mark Houghton. He treated our audience with a set of top tunes.
Fingerpoppin Soul #1135 saw the welcome return of an old friend: Aad Brakus. Aad used to run the excellent reissue label "Jamaican Gold" and to this day issues exclusive vinyl on his own label "Dr Buster Dynamite".
And the special guests just kept on coming this year. On September 17 Eli "Paperboy" Reed brought his guitar to the studio and sang a couple of his latest songs live and he treated us to a set of great records too.
July 9 saw another UK soul collector making his Fingerpoppin Soul debut: Mark Houghton. He treated our audience with a set of top tunes.
Fingerpoppin Soul #1135 saw the welcome return of an old friend: Aad Brakus. Aad used to run the excellent reissue label "Jamaican Gold" and to this day issues exclusive vinyl on his own label "Dr Buster Dynamite".
And the special guests just kept on coming this year. On September 17 Eli "Paperboy" Reed brought his guitar to the studio and sang a couple of his latest songs live and he treated us to a set of great records too.
Harry with Eli Reed holding a record by one of his heroes Roscoe Robinson. Roscoe sang at Eli's wedding!
On October 3 and 4 Josh Tyson Fermin visited Amsterdam. Josh, a documentary film maker had come to Europe to prepare a documentary about Mike James Kirkland, who was due to perform at the Bilbao Soul Weekender which was to take place two weeks later.
The Bilbao Soul weekender from October 16-18 was very special to us. We finally met and got to see Mike James Kirkland in concert. Mike proved to be a superb performer and a wonderful warm person and he made a big impact on everybody there. The gig itself was one of the best we have ever seen. The promotors from Bilbao, Alex Subinas and Aitor Lombide did a great job arranging an excellent band and making this an event to remember. The whole weekend was amazing especially the intimate Cotton Club where Europe's finest across the board DJ's (including Hans!) entertained a very knowledgeable audience.
The Bilbao Soul weekender from October 16-18 was very special to us. We finally met and got to see Mike James Kirkland in concert. Mike proved to be a superb performer and a wonderful warm person and he made a big impact on everybody there. The gig itself was one of the best we have ever seen. The promotors from Bilbao, Alex Subinas and Aitor Lombide did a great job arranging an excellent band and making this an event to remember. The whole weekend was amazing especially the intimate Cotton Club where Europe's finest across the board DJ's (including Hans!) entertained a very knowledgeable audience.
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Mike James Kirkland in concert
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Mike James Kirkland live in Bilbao (Youtube)
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Mike James Kirkland live in Bilbao (Youtube)
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A surprisingly good gig took place on November 21 at the North Sea Jazz Club in Amsterdam: Martha Reeves & the Vandellas!
At the end of the year Melba Moore did her first ever gig in the Netherlands at P60 in Amstelveen. She sounded and looked fantastic,
At the end of the year Melba Moore did her first ever gig in the Netherlands at P60 in Amstelveen. She sounded and looked fantastic,
2016
In the beginning of the year excellent guest spots by our top 3 guests: FPS #1158 Tom de Jong, FPS#1164 Mark Fisher and FPS #1168 Piet Hoens.
On May 14 we were invited to DJ at Seriously Soulful in Bristol, UK. This gig was organized by Ben Summers and Paul Thrower in support of a good cause: the fight against Motor Neurone Disease.
In the beginning of the year excellent guest spots by our top 3 guests: FPS #1158 Tom de Jong, FPS#1164 Mark Fisher and FPS #1168 Piet Hoens.
On May 14 we were invited to DJ at Seriously Soulful in Bristol, UK. This gig was organized by Ben Summers and Paul Thrower in support of a good cause: the fight against Motor Neurone Disease.
The Seriously Soulful Flyer
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DJ Legend Paul Thrower at Seriously Soulful May 2016 RIP
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In June Hans took a trip to Sweden to spin at the Stockholm Soul Weekender.
On June 28 we witnessed a stunning gig by Bobby Rush at the North Sea Jazz Club. Bobby did two sets and entertained us with great stories and songs he had rehearsed in the afternoon with the more than capable Dutch band the Fresh Cuts.
On June 28 we witnessed a stunning gig by Bobby Rush at the North Sea Jazz Club. Bobby did two sets and entertained us with great stories and songs he had rehearsed in the afternoon with the more than capable Dutch band the Fresh Cuts.
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Bobby Rush with Annelies Bannenberg and H&H
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Two more excellent guest shows followed late in the year. Helen Waddington in FPS #1195 and Kid Stokkink in FPS #1204.
2017
Another exciting year for Hans & Harry! Gig-wise the year kicked off on Jan 20 with an excellent performance by Lee Fields at the Paradiso, Amsterdam. Another great gig took place in the small room at the Paradiso by Houston soul band The Suffers on March 8. One of the highlights of the year was the concert by Toots & the Maytals on June 26 again at the Paradiso. Before the show Harry had the opportunity to present Toots Hibbert with a book of rare picture sleeve 45s!
Another exciting year for Hans & Harry! Gig-wise the year kicked off on Jan 20 with an excellent performance by Lee Fields at the Paradiso, Amsterdam. Another great gig took place in the small room at the Paradiso by Houston soul band The Suffers on March 8. One of the highlights of the year was the concert by Toots & the Maytals on June 26 again at the Paradiso. Before the show Harry had the opportunity to present Toots Hibbert with a book of rare picture sleeve 45s!
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At the beginning of July our new flyer (booklet) was ready. Again an excellent design by our friend Paul Pollmann.
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On July 8 we saw two legendary artists at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam: George Benson and Gladys Knight. Although the concerts were impressive the massive scale of this festival is too much for us… in contrast we went to Italy two weeks late to attend the intimate outdoor Porretta Soul Festival (this time it was the 30th edition!). We saw great gigs by the JB’s, Willie Hightower and Vaneese & Carla Thomas amongst others.
One more amazing gig back in Amsterdam on September 3: Don Bryant with the Bo-Keys, Don put on a wonderful show mixing songs from his latest CD plus his old Hi records favourites,
In December Hans and his wife Sherry went on a trip to Tokyo. Of course Hans did a tour of some of Tokyo’s superb record shops (see our blog for details).
By an amazing stroke of luck none other than one of our all-time heroes Joe Bataan was doing two Christmas concerts in Tokyo!
By an amazing stroke of luck none other than one of our all-time heroes Joe Bataan was doing two Christmas concerts in Tokyo!
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This year also saw a record breaking amount of guest spots on our radio show: 16 in total!
Tom de Jong (#1211 and #1244), Piet Hoens (#1214), Mark Fisher (#1217, #1249, #1259), Colin Brown (#1218), Russel Gilbert (#1221), Bart Fader (#1227), DJ Moonshine’s 78 show (#1229), Howard Boss (#1235), Jason & Helen (#1237), Kid Stokkink (#1251), Timmy Leonard (#1253), Dave Thorley (#1257) and Tony Rounce (#1260)!
Tom de Jong (#1211 and #1244), Piet Hoens (#1214), Mark Fisher (#1217, #1249, #1259), Colin Brown (#1218), Russel Gilbert (#1221), Bart Fader (#1227), DJ Moonshine’s 78 show (#1229), Howard Boss (#1235), Jason & Helen (#1237), Kid Stokkink (#1251), Timmy Leonard (#1253), Dave Thorley (#1257) and Tony Rounce (#1260)!
Great Yarmouth Soul Essence Down Beat Lounge supremo Colin Brown
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Dave "Let me do that guys" Thorley :-)
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Kent records master compiler Tony Rounce
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2018
The gig season started early, already on january 2nd we saw the wonderful Lefties Soul Connection !
The Whispers gave a sublime performance @ Paradiso on March 2nd.
On march 31st we were present at the book presentation "50 Years Paradiso". We saw many legendary concerts at this venue and Harry contributed to the chapter on Curtis Mayfield.
We were back at the Paradiso on may 10th to see the upcoming band Durand Jones and the Indications, they gave an impressive gig !
Change of venue for our next gig ! For us a timewarp to the Eighties for the june 16th gig @ Escape venue , accompanied by a great band we saw James "D Train"Williams and Evelyn "Champagne"King.
The gig season started early, already on january 2nd we saw the wonderful Lefties Soul Connection !
The Whispers gave a sublime performance @ Paradiso on March 2nd.
On march 31st we were present at the book presentation "50 Years Paradiso". We saw many legendary concerts at this venue and Harry contributed to the chapter on Curtis Mayfield.
We were back at the Paradiso on may 10th to see the upcoming band Durand Jones and the Indications, they gave an impressive gig !
Change of venue for our next gig ! For us a timewarp to the Eighties for the june 16th gig @ Escape venue , accompanied by a great band we saw James "D Train"Williams and Evelyn "Champagne"King.
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Jimmy Cliff still vital at 70 !
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On july 13th it was our annual visit to the North Sea Jazz Festival on this first day we finally saw The O'Jays still sounding and looking great !
Busy weekend July 20-22. Hans and his wife Sherry went to Porretta and saw gigs by amongst many others ; Don Bryant and the Bo-Keys, John Ellison and Willie Walker. In the same weekend Harry saw and met Jimmy Cliff in Rotterdam , what an energetic performer he still is !
Back to Amsterdam and on august 24th we witnessed some of the best Surinam soul singers like Gijs Winter, Ed Rust and Louis Windzak at the Wi Eegi Kerki.
To celebrate 30 Years of Record Palace ( the record shop opposite Paradiso) owner Jan van Dorsten threw a great Party.
Guests on our show this year: Marc Janssen ( Everland Records # 1269), Jaap Barnhoorn (#1272), Jason and Helen ( #1279), Marty Zwaan (#1283), Tom de Jong ( # 1285), Jasper Derksen (#1287), Kees Smallegange ( # 1294) , Mark Fisher( #1298), , Josh Tyson Fermin ( #1307) and DJ Es Pea Kay ( # 1310).
Our Party on november 24th was a big Success ! lots of familiar faces from of our 25 year history turned up to see us ! The Live music provided by Ed Rust , Valerie Curlingford and the Stubbs was fantastic ! And the DJ's kept the dancefloor busy ! Thanks to all !
Busy weekend July 20-22. Hans and his wife Sherry went to Porretta and saw gigs by amongst many others ; Don Bryant and the Bo-Keys, John Ellison and Willie Walker. In the same weekend Harry saw and met Jimmy Cliff in Rotterdam , what an energetic performer he still is !
Back to Amsterdam and on august 24th we witnessed some of the best Surinam soul singers like Gijs Winter, Ed Rust and Louis Windzak at the Wi Eegi Kerki.
To celebrate 30 Years of Record Palace ( the record shop opposite Paradiso) owner Jan van Dorsten threw a great Party.
Guests on our show this year: Marc Janssen ( Everland Records # 1269), Jaap Barnhoorn (#1272), Jason and Helen ( #1279), Marty Zwaan (#1283), Tom de Jong ( # 1285), Jasper Derksen (#1287), Kees Smallegange ( # 1294) , Mark Fisher( #1298), , Josh Tyson Fermin ( #1307) and DJ Es Pea Kay ( # 1310).
Our Party on november 24th was a big Success ! lots of familiar faces from of our 25 year history turned up to see us ! The Live music provided by Ed Rust , Valerie Curlingford and the Stubbs was fantastic ! And the DJ's kept the dancefloor busy ! Thanks to all !
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The Party was recorded by Amsterdam TV station Salto and you can find a 50 minutes report on YouTube !
2019
On january 25 we saw our first gig of the year : Durand Jones and The Indications to a packed Tolhuistuin venue and once again they impressed us !
The Soul4Real posse
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The flyer for Marcia's gig in Amsterdam
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Two gigs in a row in march ; Johnny Rawls in Haarlem and the almost 80 years old Ural Thomas with his fantastic band The Pain what an energy this guy still has ! . The best and most surprising gig of 2019 for the both of us was the Inna de Yard gig at the Melkweg on June 13. Inspirational performances by veterans of the Reggae scene with amongst others Horace Andy, Cedric Myton and Ken Boothe, WOW ! More great Reggae in August with Marcia Griffiths who is still a sensational live act !. In the first weekend of October Hans and his wife travelled to Bilbao for the Soul for Real weekender with live acts Joe Bataan and Swamp Dogg backed by a great full Spanish backing band ( Thanks again Alex and Aitor !) . Hans entertained the Cotton Club audience with a very varied DJ set ! At the end of the year on december 13 we saw Carlton Jumel Smith perform at the Bitterzoet in Amsterdam. We predict a bright future for this wonderful entertainer !
Guests on our show this year; Paul Harvey ( # 1322) , Piet Hoens ( # 1324) ,Jason and Helen ( # 1336) , Tom de Jong
( # 1341) , Dick Baars ( # 1343, Pride week special on Arthur Conley) , DJ Dab ( #1359) , DJ Daddy Bones ( # 1360) , Dave Thorley ( # 1362) and Mr Reliable Mark Fisher , special thanks ( # 1342, # 1350 and # 1354 as DJ Steeltown ADE show!) .
2020
The year started out great with a fantastic gig on january 4 at our new favourite venue in Amsterdam "De Nieuwe Anita" with a New Orleans themed night with Live band Gumbeaux ( featuring singer Kris Berry) and Top Dj's ; Dj Moonshine and DJ Guzz. Second live gig took place on feb 23. Not knowing this would be our last live gig for a loooong time ..... we headed to the Paradiso to see Kelly Finnigan and what a gig it turned out to be ! Horn section , female backing singers and a surprising mix of original songs and cover versions. And then.......the Virus from China entered our lives....The first lockdown began on March 19 and lasted until July 18. In this period we continued Fingerpoppin Soul by Pre recording the show . This involved a lot of extra work but we managed to keep the FPS spirit across the airwaves ! After this first lockdown we invited guests back into the studio and on september 3 we did show # 1400 ! All this fun came to a sudden stop when we entered our second lockdown on october 15 ( and this 2nd lockdown would last until may 20 , 2021 !). During these lockdowns musicians world wide were still releasing great new music for instance from Holland: Michelle David & the Gospel Sessions , from the US West Coast : Trish Toledo and Joey Quinones. And representing the Old School Mr Mike James Kirkland released two wonderful new 45's !!. Guests on the show this year; # 1371 Tom de Jong # 1373 Taco Fett # 1374 DJ Guzz # 1394 Clyde Roseval # 1399 Mark Fisher # 1401 Paul Woosnam . They all gave very inspiring shows , ta !
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2021
At the start of 2021 we were still pre-recording the show and it would last until may 27th when we were allowed back into our studio to present the show live. During the summer of 2021 gradually life was returning to some kind of normality. We even went to our first record fair in Beverwijk on june 13th . At the end of july Harry took a trip to Gent , Belgium and saw the great Afro Funk band Kolonel Djafaar live at Bar Bricolage. In the weekend of 18/19 september Amsterdam grocery store owner Brian Nicholas took the initiative to organise a small festival at the Secret Garden in the centre of Amsterdam. we saw a couple of great bands like The SuperCity Band and The Leadbeaters. From december onwards we were back at Hans' kitchen table to pre record our shows. This third studio lock down luckily didn't last too long because on january 20,2022 we were allowed back in the studio again ! Like every year we had some wonderful and educational guestspots ; show # 1440 DJ Moonshine # 1443 Tom de Jong #1446 Taco Fett # 1449 Piet Hoens # 1453 Jaap Barnhoorn #1456 Paul Woosnam and # 1464 Kees Smallegange .
The Martinels 45 played by Jaap Barnhoorn on his guest spot
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Jackie Montre El played by Piet Hoens on his guest spot
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Kolonel Jafaar live in Ghent
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2022
In the beginning of 2022 it didn't look like normal life would return soon but the COVID variation called OMICRON changed that for the better ! On march 23,2022 we witnessed our first official gig in two years ...No QR code and no mouthmasks ! So we really enjoyed The Monophonics at The Tolhuistuin venue in Amsterdam . In our favorite venue in Amsterdam De Nieuwe Anita we saw nice Rocksteady gigs by De Kiloknallers ( march) and Change the Mood ( april) . On april 29 we went to Hilversum to see Martha High and the Italian Royal Family as always she was wonderful !
We also got to meet the very gifted songwriter/producer for Blind Faith Records Luca Sapio. On june 6 we saw one of the artists Luca had worked with in the past: Sugaray Rayford. Super nice guy but the gig was too Rock orientated for our ears . In the weekend of 17-19 june we made our first trip abroad in a looooong time ! We went to The Blackpool International Soul Festival and saw Jimmie Delphs ,Jean Carn , Betty Harris and Eddie Holman . We met Eddie Holman before the gig and he had some entertaining stories to tell ! We also gave him a book with his European released picture sleeve 45's. In the evening he blew us away with his performance ! What a voice he's still got ! In july Harry saw J.P.Bimeni and The Black Belts at The New Morning in Paris , very entertaining gig ! In the fall of 2022 we started our monthly Hideaway sessions at the HardRock Hotel ( please also check our Blog for the dates) . We spin Sweet Soul, Ballads & B-Sides from vinyl . The resident DJ's are Hans and Harry, Taco Fett and Mark Fisher with every month another guest DJ. Of course also in 2022 we had some wonderful guests on our radioshow ; # 1475 Ismael Ibrahim , # 1476 Adrian Corbin , # 1485 Tom de Jong #1489 Mark Fisher , # 1497 Paul Woosnam, # 1499 Tom de Jong , # 1502 Russell Gilbert , # 1505 Jaap Barnhoorn , # 1515 JusCool NYC, # 1519 DJ WolfRock. In 2023 we will celebrate our THIRTY years on the radio , continue to organise our Hideaway sessions and travel to Soulful gigs !
In the beginning of 2022 it didn't look like normal life would return soon but the COVID variation called OMICRON changed that for the better ! On march 23,2022 we witnessed our first official gig in two years ...No QR code and no mouthmasks ! So we really enjoyed The Monophonics at The Tolhuistuin venue in Amsterdam . In our favorite venue in Amsterdam De Nieuwe Anita we saw nice Rocksteady gigs by De Kiloknallers ( march) and Change the Mood ( april) . On april 29 we went to Hilversum to see Martha High and the Italian Royal Family as always she was wonderful !
We also got to meet the very gifted songwriter/producer for Blind Faith Records Luca Sapio. On june 6 we saw one of the artists Luca had worked with in the past: Sugaray Rayford. Super nice guy but the gig was too Rock orientated for our ears . In the weekend of 17-19 june we made our first trip abroad in a looooong time ! We went to The Blackpool International Soul Festival and saw Jimmie Delphs ,Jean Carn , Betty Harris and Eddie Holman . We met Eddie Holman before the gig and he had some entertaining stories to tell ! We also gave him a book with his European released picture sleeve 45's. In the evening he blew us away with his performance ! What a voice he's still got ! In july Harry saw J.P.Bimeni and The Black Belts at The New Morning in Paris , very entertaining gig ! In the fall of 2022 we started our monthly Hideaway sessions at the HardRock Hotel ( please also check our Blog for the dates) . We spin Sweet Soul, Ballads & B-Sides from vinyl . The resident DJ's are Hans and Harry, Taco Fett and Mark Fisher with every month another guest DJ. Of course also in 2022 we had some wonderful guests on our radioshow ; # 1475 Ismael Ibrahim , # 1476 Adrian Corbin , # 1485 Tom de Jong #1489 Mark Fisher , # 1497 Paul Woosnam, # 1499 Tom de Jong , # 1502 Russell Gilbert , # 1505 Jaap Barnhoorn , # 1515 JusCool NYC, # 1519 DJ WolfRock. In 2023 we will celebrate our THIRTY years on the radio , continue to organise our Hideaway sessions and travel to Soulful gigs !
Eddie Holman with Harry & Hans
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The flyer for the Weekender
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Eddie Holman in concert at the Blackpool Soul Weekender
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The Poster for the concert in Stockton. What a line up!
2023
In 2023 we continued with our Sweet Soul, Ballads and B-Sides evenings at The Hideaway ( situated at The American Hotel ,right in the middle of Amsterdam). Our first guest on january 14 was Russell Gilbert. All The Hideaway sets are recorded and can be enjoyed on our Mixcloud page .
On april 6 we moved to our new radio timeslot of 9pm to 11pm still on a thursday.
On april 15 we travelled to Utrecht to see the legendary Rocksteady duo Keith and Tex who were joined near the end of the gig by Rudy Mills, stunning gig ! Talking of Jamaican legends...Mr Winston Francis celebrated his 80st birthday on stage in Amstelveen on may 26 and we watched in awe to his energetic and emotional performance !
For years and years we were jealous of our Soul friends in the UK because every june they have the opportunity to see Gladys Knight in concert but hey...this year Amsterdam was included in the tour !. On june 1 we saw her perform at the legendary venue Carre and her voice was still in Top condition. Harry even got the opportunity for a very short meet and greet.
On june 15 we celebrated THIRTY years of Fingerpoppin Soul. We still enjoy what we do and hope to continue for a long time ! In august we had a long wish come true by travelling to California to see some Old Skool legends but also witness the upcoming new West Coast Soul groups . On august 18 we saw this line up in Stockton
For us it was an eye-opener to see the popularity of the artists have here and the audience singing along with every song also with new artists like Thee Sacred Souls. DJ Cazel hooked us up with the legendary Brenton Wood so we were able to present him a book with his European picture sleeves . After the gig we also got the opportunity to speak to artists we spin a lot on our show Trish Toledo and Joey Quinones. .Also on our "to do" list was a visit to Riverside , California where NORIEGA RECORDS is located. Owner Mike Noriega showed us around and we left with a pile of 45's and T shirts. Big Shout Out to Greg Belson and Andy Cobb who drove us there , cheers !.
The year 2023 took a dramatic turn when on september 26 the news reached us that our dear friend and music journalist Kees Smallegange had suddenly passed away...We devoted our radioshow on october 5 entirely to Kees and his favourite music . The last time Kees did a guestspot on FPS was in 2021, show # 1464.
In 2023 we continued with our Sweet Soul, Ballads and B-Sides evenings at The Hideaway ( situated at The American Hotel ,right in the middle of Amsterdam). Our first guest on january 14 was Russell Gilbert. All The Hideaway sets are recorded and can be enjoyed on our Mixcloud page .
On april 6 we moved to our new radio timeslot of 9pm to 11pm still on a thursday.
On april 15 we travelled to Utrecht to see the legendary Rocksteady duo Keith and Tex who were joined near the end of the gig by Rudy Mills, stunning gig ! Talking of Jamaican legends...Mr Winston Francis celebrated his 80st birthday on stage in Amstelveen on may 26 and we watched in awe to his energetic and emotional performance !
For years and years we were jealous of our Soul friends in the UK because every june they have the opportunity to see Gladys Knight in concert but hey...this year Amsterdam was included in the tour !. On june 1 we saw her perform at the legendary venue Carre and her voice was still in Top condition. Harry even got the opportunity for a very short meet and greet.
On june 15 we celebrated THIRTY years of Fingerpoppin Soul. We still enjoy what we do and hope to continue for a long time ! In august we had a long wish come true by travelling to California to see some Old Skool legends but also witness the upcoming new West Coast Soul groups . On august 18 we saw this line up in Stockton
For us it was an eye-opener to see the popularity of the artists have here and the audience singing along with every song also with new artists like Thee Sacred Souls. DJ Cazel hooked us up with the legendary Brenton Wood so we were able to present him a book with his European picture sleeves . After the gig we also got the opportunity to speak to artists we spin a lot on our show Trish Toledo and Joey Quinones. .Also on our "to do" list was a visit to Riverside , California where NORIEGA RECORDS is located. Owner Mike Noriega showed us around and we left with a pile of 45's and T shirts. Big Shout Out to Greg Belson and Andy Cobb who drove us there , cheers !.
The year 2023 took a dramatic turn when on september 26 the news reached us that our dear friend and music journalist Kees Smallegange had suddenly passed away...We devoted our radioshow on october 5 entirely to Kees and his favourite music . The last time Kees did a guestspot on FPS was in 2021, show # 1464.
Rest in Peace Kees
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It is hard to get back to reality but the weekend after his funeral somewhat eased the pain ...who did we see ? The incredible singer/songwriter Billy Valentine who sang songs from his new album and classics like "A change is gonna come" . Changes indeed were coming because it was also the last time that the Bilbao Soul4Real Weekender was organised by Javier, Aitor and Alex. In the weekend of october 19-22 we saw performances by Ann Sexton , Margie Joseph and David Sea. On the saturday we did a two hour DJ set at The Cotton Club and for the occasion we dressed in Athletic Bilbao shirts ! . |
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Our radioshow guests this year were on show # 1524 Tom de Jong , # 1541 Tim Leonard, # 1548 DJ Dab, # 1566 Tom de Jong , # 1568 Dave Thomas and # 1572 Jaap Barnhoorn.
Our guest DJ's at The Hideaway were ; January; Russell Gilbert, February ;Tom de Jong , March; Russel Gilbert , April; Bart Fader , May; Tim Leonard, September; Paul Woosnam , November; DJ Soul Supreme and December; Clyde Roseval. The Hideaway dates for 2024 are February 23 , April 26 and June 28. See you there !
Our guest DJ's at The Hideaway were ; January; Russell Gilbert, February ;Tom de Jong , March; Russel Gilbert , April; Bart Fader , May; Tim Leonard, September; Paul Woosnam , November; DJ Soul Supreme and December; Clyde Roseval. The Hideaway dates for 2024 are February 23 , April 26 and June 28. See you there !