Hans Theessink

Like others of his generation, in the early 1960? a love of the Blues took hold of Hans Theessink, the man whom Bo Diddley described as “one helluva guitar player”, and it has not let go since. Above all, the country blues with its earthy and heartfelt sound impressed Hans Theessink and played a major role in his development as a musician. His roots are unmistakenly in the blues, but has also been influenced by countless other aspects of roots music. This musical variety has become a trademark of Hans Theessink, who as a songwriter has succeeded in building bridges to the present in addressing issues which reflect the reality of the here and now.

Hans is probably Europe’s No. 1 Blues Export.  He is one of the top blues and roots musicians worldwide who has entertained audiences around the globe during a musical career that spans over more than 35 years. The world’s leading Blues paper – US magazine Blues Revue wrote: “Hans Theessink is an international blues treasure. He is one of the world’s pre-eminent Country Pickers and his warm baritone expresses Blues”.

Theessink’s first recording was an EP in 1970. Since then his music has continually developed and so far Hans has released 20 albums, a songbook, a blues-guitar instruction video and a DVD. His CDs are guaranteed award winners. “Banjoman”, the tribute project to Derroll Adams, that Hans produced with Arlo Guthrie, was nominated for a Grammy.

In 2004 Hans got the Austrian Amadeus award for “Songs from the Southland”, a tribute to the music of the American South – a constant source of inspiration and companion on his musical journey. A Danish Music Award for Best Blues Album followed in 2005. His album “Bridges” – a recording with the Hans Theessink Band, was nominated for the Amadeus in the category best Blues-, Jazz-, Roots-, Folk-album. Hans’ DVD “Live in Concert: A Blues & Roots Revue” shows the Hans Theessink Band in action + lots of other special features. Hans’ productions are known for their excellent sound quality and are also in big demand in Audiophile circles.

Through his unmistakable guitar work, sonorous baritone voice and stage presence, Hans has attained a status which is unique for a European. He has performed at many of the most prominent North American music festivals such as the “New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival”, the “Chicago Blues Festival”, the “Kerville Folk Festival”, the “Toronto Soul & Blues Festival”, the “Kansas City Blues & Jazz Festival”, the “Edmonton Folk Festival”, the “St.Louis Blues & Heritage Festival”, the “King Biscuit Blues Festival”, the “Woody Guthrie Festival” and the “Ultimate Rhythm and Blues Cruise” to name a few.

Hans Theessink has become one of the most sought-after artists of the international blues scene. He is more or less constantly “on tour” and plays an average of 200 concerts a year – a modern day troubadour and entertainer who keeps on spellbinding audiences all over the world with his rich and emotional sounds. 

photo: from booklet ‘Live in Jazzland’