Groningen is mourning the loss of one of its cultural icons, Henk Scholte, who passed away at the age of 65 after battling serious health issues. An influential musician, songwriter, and radio personality, Scholte was best known as the voice of the regional radio program 'Twij deuntjes veur ain cent,' which celebrated local music and culture.
Born on July 26, 1959, Scholte grew up in the northern Dutch province of Groningen and became deeply immersed in its cultural life from an early age. He first gained prominence as the frontman of the band Törf, where he earned the affectionate nickname 'Henkie Törf.' Under his leadership, Törf blended contemporary styles with traditional Groninger music, breathing new life to regional songs. The band won accolades, including the K. ter Laan award, for their contributions to the local music scene.
With Schotlte at the helm, 'Twij deuntjes veur ain cent' took to the airwaves in 2000 and quickly became beloved for its focus on Groninger and international folk music, providing exposure for many artists who otherwise might have gone unnoticed. Scholte often declared, "Het is bij de landelijke radiostations doodgezwegen muziek," reflecting his passion for promoting regional music which he believed deserved recognition.
Jan Veldman, a close friend and fellow musician, recalled their friendship, stating on social media, "Mien grode vrund Henk is dood." He noted how Scholte never accepted his fate, expressing wishes just before his passing to continue exploring the world with friends. Veldman emphasized Scholte's impact on the appreciation and preservation of the Groninger language and culture, saying, "Henk heeft er voor gezorgd dat de Groningse taal weer gewaardeerd werd. Voor mij persoonlijk was hij een baken in de wereld van de Groningse taal."
Scholte's talents extended beyond music—he was also a poet, storyteller, and radio maker for RTV Noord. His program ran for over twenty years and has become part of the cultural fabric of Groningen; it was often described as their 'cultural lifeline.' Tragically, there were threats of cancellation due to budget cuts in 2016, but thanks to Scholte's efforts and community support, the show was preserved and adapted, eventually airing for two hours on Sunday mornings.
The deep community connections he established have been evident following his death, with countless tributes surfacing from fellow musicians and fans. Musician Ger Warink shared his shock at the news, reflecting, "Met zijn overlijden verliest de Groningse cultuurscene een icoon. Henk was een ongelofelijk aardige man die een hart van goud had. En ook alle energie die hij gestoken heeft in het op de kaart zetten van de Nedersaksische muziek. Voor mij was het altijd een feestje om met hem te mogen samenwerken."
Many, like singer Marlene Bakker, regarded him as both mentor and friend, expressing gratitude for his guidance, saying, "Wat hij deed, was echt uniek, met die combinatie van streektalen en hoe hij dat dan aan elkaar praatte." Scholte was seen as someone who embraced and nurtured talent within the local music scene, often described as a generous spirit who genuinely enjoyed sharing knowledge with those around him.
Scholte also played active roles within literary and cultural organizations, such as the founding of the Grunneger Tiedschrift Krödde and serving as Kulturintendant for the Eems Dollard Region, helping to promote cross-border cultural exchanges.
His contributions did not go unnoticed; he received commendations, including the Wessel Gansfort prize and was knighted in the Order of Oranje-Nassau for his dedication to culture and language.
The news of his passing has not only saddened his friends and collaborators, but it also leaves a significant void within the Groninger cultural community, with many expressing sentiments like, "Er verdwijnt nu een stuk van onze taal en cultuur, dat is gewoon weg," as shared by local artist Bert Hadders. Artists and fans alike worry about the loss of his presence—a figure who was both passionate and knowledgeable about music, poetry, and the region's cultural heritage.
During the next broadcast of 'Twij deuntjes veur ain cent,' listeners will have the opportunity to honor Henk Scholte, reflecting on both his legacy and the contributions he made to the Groninger music scene. Scholte’s spirit will endure through the music he loved and the connections he forged, and his influence on the local culture will surely be felt for generations to come.