This 15th edition of YourStage Urban features dynamic workshops, captivating performances, and exclusive masterclasses led by renowned artists such as Mekki, JM, Umit-C and Donny. It provides a unique platform for young people in The Hague to develop their skills in rap, singing, and performance. These masterclasses offer participants the opportunity to collaborate with well-known Dutch rappers, urban musicians, and other pioneers in the music industry, offering invaluable insights into the professional world of music creating opportunities for young urban talent. With diversity, culture, and talent development at its core. Investing in music and culture reflects a commitment to a more peaceful, just, and inclusive society.
"YourStage Urban is more than a stage; it’s a space for growth, creative exchange, and celebrating diversity. We aim to put urban culture in The Hague on the map and inspire participants with new experiences. The programme not only helps them develop their artistic skills but also builds their confidence, networks, and visibility. It’s a safe environment where they can grow both as artists and individuals."
About the hub
Musicon in The Hague, the vibrant and creative hub hosting YourStage Urban, offers an ideal setting for this initiative. Since its foundation in the 1990s in response to the need for rehearsal spaces, pop music lessons, and a stage for live performances, Musicon has become a dynamic cultural centre and stage for live performances. The founders, Cesar Zuiderwijk, drummer of Golden Earring, and Alejandro Milberg, an Argentine documentary maker and dissident, created a unique cultural hub. Over the years, Musicon has become a vibrant and inclusive all-round pop music center, offering rehearsal rooms, a music school, workshops, and a café. With over 400 bands performing annually and 15,000 concertgoers, Musicon fosters music education and talent development, providing a platform for both emerging and established musicians.
The Hague has a rich and diverse music scene that has produced a remarkable amount of talent over the years. A key historical factor was the rise of the Indorock movement in the 1950s, brought by the Indonesian community in the city, which left a lasting impact on Dutch pop music. Today, The Hague’s music sector thrives on strong collaboration between musicians, cultural organisations, and venues, creating a supportive ecosystem for talent development. The municipality plays a supporting role through various funding schemes, with an estimated annual investment of around five million euros in the sector. Musicon is a strong example of an independent organisation that, with municipal support, contributes to the growth of local musicians. This aligns with the city’s cultural policy, which prioritises fostering creators and talent to ensure a vibrant cultural landscape.
Picture credit and source: https://indo-rock.jimdofree.com/the-story-of-indo-rock-english/
Through initiatives like YourStage Urban, The Hague continues to champion music as a unifying force. By nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for creative expression, the city strengthens its position as a place where culture and community come together to create a safer, more just, and peaceful world.
"The Hague has a rich musical history, this is something we really cherish. That's why it’s important to continue creating space for new talent. Music connects people, encourages dialogue, and contributes to a safer and more just society. By supporting creativity, we allow people to develop their skills and build a community. This is how the musical legacy of The Hague is carried on."
More about the talent from The Hague
Frenna
In 2022, Frenna received a multi award for reaching 2 billion streams worldwide and is only the second Dutch rapper to have achieved this milestone. As of 2024 Frenna has reached over 3 billion streams.
Golden Earring
Golden Earring was one of the longest existing bands in the world, with a classic lineup that remained together for over half a century. The band was formed in 1961 in The Hague en became one of the prominent acts of the flourishing beat scene. The Golden Earring, as the band initially was called, managed to adapt to the changing musical times.
JM Fuego
JM Fuego is a Dutch & Spanish speaking Artist, producer & engineer with a wide taste for music. As a result that his music also varies sound and genres.
Dutch documentary about first Indorock-Rap in the Netherlands
Read more about the circular rooftop of Musicon
Donated by 'De Volharding'
The new solar roof at Musicon consists of 72 second-hand PV panels donated by De Volharding. Although only eight years old, these panels can still generate 20,000 kWh of renewable energy per year for the next 15 years, covering 30% of Musicon’s annual electricity consumption. By reusing PV panels that are economically depreciated but still functional, Musicon and the cooperative Sterk Op Stroom not only support local renewable energy production but also contribute to the circular economy. The installation was carried out with the help of volunteers, keeping costs low. This project also introduces a new approach to collective solar energy generation on smaller rooftops in urban areas, helping to unlock underutilised roof space for sustainability.
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