Van Dik Hout & Vrienden

Van Dik Hout & Vrienden Live at AFAS Live, Amsterdam

Get ready for an unforgettable evening as Dutch rock royalty, Van Dik Hout, takes centre stage at the iconic AFAS Live in Amsterdam on Saturday, 9 May 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of enduring musical talent, a testament to a career spanning decades, and an exclusive gathering where the band will be joined by a host of special “Vrienden” (friends) from the Dutch music scene. Prepare for a night filled with electrifying performances, beloved anthems, and a unique atmosphere that only Van Dik Hout can deliver. The synergy of Van Dik Hout’s raw energy and the collective talent of their guest musicians promises a truly special experience for all attendees, making this a must-see event for any music lover.

About Van Dik Hout & Vrienden

Van Dik Hout has carved an indelible niche in the Dutch music landscape, emerging in the early 1990s with a sound that blended introspective songwriting with powerful rock instrumentation. Led by the charismatic Martin Buitenhuis, the band quickly established themselves as purveyors of honest, relatable lyrics that resonated deeply with audiences across the Netherlands. Their debut album, “Stap Lichter,” released in 1994, was a revelation, producing hits like the anthemic “Sterker Nu” and the poignant “De Bom.” This early success propelled them into the forefront of the Dutch rock scene, showcasing their ability to craft songs that were both commercially appealing and artistically credible.

Over the ensuing years, Van Dik Hout continued to evolve, releasing a string of successful albums that solidified their reputation. Tracks such as “Alles Wat Ik Weten Wil,” “Een Nacht Alleen,” and “Handen Zwaaiend Naar De Zon” became staples on Dutch radio and fan favourites at live shows. Their music often explores themes of love, loss, friendship, and the everyday struggles and triumphs of life, delivered with a characteristic blend of urgency and vulnerability. Their live performances are renowned for their raw energy, Buitenhuis’s commanding stage presence, and the tight musicianship of the band. For this special occasion at AFAS Live, Van Dik Hout will be joined by a carefully curated selection of “Vrienden” – esteemed musicians and artists from various corners of the Dutch music world. These collaborations promise to add exciting new dimensions to their already powerful repertoire, bringing fresh interpretations and unexpected moments to their classic hits, as well as potentially debuting new material forged in this unique creative partnership. This gathering of talent is a rare opportunity to witness the cross-pollination of styles and the sheer joy of musical camaraderie, all under the Van Dik Hout banner.

Venue Information

AFAS Live is one of the Netherlands’ premier concert venues, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and its ability to host a wide range of musical genres. Situated in Amsterdam, it boasts excellent accessibility and a capacity that allows for an intimate yet grand atmosphere for performances. The venue is equipped with advanced sound and lighting systems, ensuring a premium audio-visual experience for every concertgoer. With its distinctive architectural design and reputation for hosting world-class artists, AFAS Live provides the perfect backdrop for a momentous evening with Van Dik Hout & Vrienden. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Attendees can anticipate an electrifying performance that showcases the breadth and depth of Van Dik Hout’s extensive catalogue. The setlist will undoubtedly feature a generous selection of their most beloved hits, including the chart-topping “Sterker Nu,” the enduring “Een Nacht Alleen,” and the uplifting “Handen Zwaaiend Naar De Zon.” These fan favourites will be delivered with the band’s signature raw energy and Martin Buitenhuis’s impassioned vocals.

However, the true magic of this event lies in the “Vrienden” – the special guests who will be joining Van Dik Hout on stage. Expect thrilling collaborations where familiar Van Dik Hout songs are reimagined through the distinct musical styles of their guest artists. This could manifest as unexpected vocal harmonies, innovative instrumental arrangements, or even joint renditions of songs that transcend their original versions. The element of surprise will be a key feature, with potential for guest appearances that span generations and genres within the Dutch music scene, creating unique musical dialogues.

Van Dik Hout’s performance style is known for its unpretentious authenticity and a palpable connection with the audience. Buitenhuis has a remarkable ability to engage the crowd, fostering a sense of shared experience and collective energy. Expect moments of singalong euphoria, introspective passages that allow the lyrical depth of their songs to shine, and a general atmosphere of vibrant musical celebration. The evening is projected to last approximately two to two-and-a-half hours, including a short interval, allowing ample time for Van Dik Hout and their Vrienden to explore their extensive repertoire and deliver a truly memorable show.

FAQs

Q1: Will Martin Buitenhuis be performing with Van Dik Hout? Absolutely. Martin Buitenhuis remains the charismatic frontman of Van Dik Hout, and he will be leading the band and their Vrienden for this special performance at AFAS Live. His distinctive vocals and stage presence are central to the Van Dik Hout experience.

Q2: Who are the “Vrienden” (friends) who will be performing with Van Dik Hout? The identity of the specific “Vrienden” is being kept under wraps to build anticipation, but attendees can expect a line-up of highly respected and talented musicians and artists from the Dutch music scene. These collaborations are designed to offer fresh interpretations of Van Dik Hout’s songs and create unique, memorable moments. Keep an eye on official announcements for reveals closer to the date.

Q3: Can I expect to hear all of Van Dik Hout’s biggest hits? Yes, the setlist will prominently feature Van Dik Hout’s most popular and enduring hits. Songs that have become anthems for their fans are guaranteed to be part of the evening, delivered with the band’s characteristic energy.

Q4: Will there be any new material performed at this concert? While the focus will be on Van Dik Hout’s established hits and collaborative interpretations, it is possible that the unique creative environment of this event could lead to the unveiling of new material or special arrangements crafted specifically for this performance with their Vrienden.

Q5: How long is the planned duration of the concert? The concert is expected to last approximately two to two-and-a-half hours. This timeframe includes a brief interval, allowing ample opportunity for Van Dik Hout and their guest artists to deliver a comprehensive and engaging performance.

Q6: Are there any age restrictions for attending the concert? Generally, AFAS Live concerts are open to all ages, but specific restrictions can sometimes apply depending on the event. It is advisable to check the official AFAS Live website or the ticketing agent’s page for any specific age-related entry policies for this particular concert, especially if purchasing tickets for minors.