Robbert Duijf
Acoustic Blues-Gospel Artist
 

About

Robbert  brings his music pure, sincere and full of passion. His voice is pure and full of surrender. By singing and playing from his heart, he makes a deep connection with his audience. In his shows as a solo artist, duo or with his band, he tells stories with a message. Sing, laugh, clap together and also wipe away a tear…music that connects and makes you feel good.
This is extremely important, especially at this time!

Robbert Duijf Band: Robbert's eldest son Rubin plays on double bass. He is a talented young musician who has a big heart for the blues. With a new view on the blues, he gives a fresh energy. Robin Zalm, with extensive experience as a drummer with a lot of big international bands, is a versatile drummer with a wonderful groove. Quote from Robin: “Later, when I'm over 50, I'm going to play in a blues band!” He kept his word…


Awards:
• Winner Dutch Blues Challenge 2019, category solo/duo.
• Semifinalist International Blues Challenge 2020 Memphis Tennessee USA, category solo/duo.
• Winner Dutch Blues Challenge 2023, category bands.
• Award Best Dutch Blues Album 2023 ‘Change Myself’.
• Winner European Blues Challenge 2024 Braga Portugal, category bands.


Gospel Blues: You recognize him and his music in this story:
“The term gospel music probably originated in the 1920s. In the cotton fields, slaves were not allowed to talk to each other, but they were allowed to sing. This is how songs of hope and encouragement were created, they were enriched with rhythmic influences from the blues. Gospel music is characterized by improvised, narrative passages and extravagant expressiveness. The transfer of feelings, the singer's individuality, his courage to expose himself thanks to the recognition and support of the audience, that is what gospel blues entails in its purest form. That is also what distinguishes gospel blues from other music genres, it evokes a sense of community and provides connection.”

Influences and inspiration
His music is a mix of Gospel and Delta Blues with a pinch of British-American folk inspired by Charley Patton, Skip James, Willie Dixon, Blind Willie Johnson, Dave Van Ronk, John Lee Hooker and Michael de Jong.

Releases:
• 2024 Tired of being Good (CD only) Live Album
• 2023 Love To See You Cry (Digital release single)
• 2023 Change Myself (Vinyl) Jazzism: “That you will happily turn over the LP again.” Best Dutch Blues Album 2023!
• 2022 Trouble Will Soon Be Over (single)
• 2021 Dangerous Mood (Vinyl) Blues Town Music “An excellent album.”
• 2020 Fools Parade (single)
• 2019 Going Home (Live) Barnowlblues “Pure, without frills, real blues. Class."

Press Quotes

Blues News Norway:
The winner of the European Blues Challenge (EBC) 2024 The Dutch trio Robbert Duijf Band. The band charmed the audience during their concerts with their version of delta blues. The audience quickly picked up Robbert's atmosphere and the connection between band and audience was immediate.
Blues Magazine Netherlands:
Falling Of The Wagon and My Only Friend, Duijf proves to be an excellent guitarist. With his passionate singing and guitar playing he reminds me strongly of Michael de Jongh who passed away. Not so strange actually because Michael de Jongh is said to have been a fan of Robbert Duijf.
The Blues Alone Netherlands:
The three musicians received a standing ovation in Braga, they managed to touch both the audience and the jury with their performance.
Blues Town Music Netherlands:
A very impressive album by Robbert Duijf, which could have lasted a bit longer in my opinion….
Jazzism Netherlands:
His solo debut consists of the highlights of a live concert. Recorded in a clean and unedited manner. This is not necessary, because Duijf's relaxed fingerpicking on guitar can also be enjoyed without any technical sound tricks. He is also an entertaining entertainer with a pleasantly raw singing voice. The advantage is that he writes a large part of his songs himself.
Back To The Roots Belgium:
Robbert is supported by a swinging 'upright bass' and a drummer, who stands out both because of his limited drum kit and because of the use of a washboard. Despite the limited line-up, Robbert can easily take the audience along with him through his enthusiasm and interesting linking texts. Nice.
Barnowlblues Netherlands:
With this album (Change Myself), Robbert Duijf proves to be an excellent musician, who ensures that the genre of pre-war blues and gospel remains in the spotlight.
Roots Ville Belgium:
Three very good musicians who enjoy performing their music with passion, dedication and straight from their hearts. After ‘Change Myself’ another acapella number followed, which despite the warm temperatures made you jump for joy, with an encore as a reward. Mister Duijf, you made my day!’



         “Music from the heart to heal and connect”