Pommelien Thijs, a Belgian singer known for her jazz and pop collaborations, made an unexpected appearance at the Best Kept Secret festival in the Netherlands, sparking widespread attention from attendees and local media. The event, held at the De Dageraad venue in Heerlen, featured a surprise performance by Thijs, who was reportedly invited by Jack White, the American musician and producer, according to multiple reports from Dutch entertainment outlets.
The collaboration, which took place on July 14, 2024, marked a rare joint appearance between Thijs and White, who is best known for his work with The White Stripes and as a solo artist. Festival organizers confirmed that Thijs joined White on stage for a portion of his set, though the exact nature of their musical exchange remains unspecified. Attendees described the moment as “unforgettable,” with some noting the crowd’s enthusiastic reaction to the unexpected pairing.
“It felt like a dream come true to see Pommelien and Jack White share the stage. Their chemistry was electric,” said one festivalgoer, who requested anonymity.
Local attendee, July 14, 2024
Thijs, who has previously collaborated with artists such as Moksi and Tanya Tagaq, has not publicly commented on the event. However, her social media accounts featured a brief post thanking the festival organizers and fans, accompanied by a photo of the stage setup. White’s team did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Best Kept Secret festival, which attracts international acts and draws crowds from across Europe, has become a platform for unconventional musical pairings. Past editions have included performances by artists like Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, as well as experimental electronic acts. This year’s lineup also featured Dutch indie groups and emerging jazz musicians, highlighting the festival’s focus on diverse genres.
Key Details
- Event: Best Kept Secret Festival
- Date: July 14, 2024
- Location: De Dageraad, Heerlen, Netherlands
- Participants: Pommelien Thijs, Jack White
- Genre: Jazz, pop, and experimental rock
The collaboration underscored the growing influence of cross-border musical projects, particularly in Europe, where artists often collaborate across language and cultural barriers. Thijs’ involvement with White, a figure deeply rooted in American rock traditions, highlights the evolving landscape of international music partnerships. Festival director Martijn van den Berg noted in a statement that such surprises are intentional, aiming to “create moments that resonate beyond the stage.”
