Jost Klein has won the Pop Award 2023. The award was presented on Saturday evening at the Eurosonic Noorderslag festival in Groningen. The singer is hoping to win awards again in May when he goes to the Eurovision Song Contest for the Netherlands.
“Twelve points go to the Netherlands,” shouted the Frisian singer and rapper as he accepted the pop award, in reference to the Eurovision Song Contest.
According to the Dutch Pop Prize jury, Joost Klein impresses with “songs that capture the spirit of the times in a unique way”. His particular musical style, in which “a constant stream of stimuli, a short attention span and self-mockery are expressed in catchy songs”, has also been praised.
“His songs offer appreciation and hope.”
The grand jury report also notes that Klein is also an inspiration to others. “His songs tell stories of serious personal suffering, his mental problems, and the chaos of his youth in 2024, but they are never without humor and offer his listeners hope as well as perspective and appreciation.”
When receiving the pop award, the singer also reflected on the message contained in his music. “For years, I had very bad things going through my head,” Klein said. “Fortunately I found music with Tantu Beats that hopefully will open up more things for discussion.”
The Pop Award is one of the most prestigious Dutch music awards. This award is given to the artist who has made the most significant contribution to Dutch pop music in the past year. In addition to the Theo MacKay statue, Klein also received a check for €10,000.
2:20This is how Jost Klein takes to the stage: “This can attract votes”
“Unable to type with boxing gloves on. Freelance organizer. Avid analyst. Friendly troublemaker. Bacon junkie.”