Harrie Jekkers Named Honorary Citizen of the Hague

The Hague awarded songwriter, musician, and cabaret artist Harrie Jekkers its Golden Pin and honorary citizenship on July 12th following his final performance at the Royal Theatre. Mayor Jan van Zanen presented the award recognizing Jekkers’ decades of contribution to the city’s cultural life.

Jekkers, born in The Hague’s Schilderswijk in 1951, rose to fame with the band Klein Orkest and later as a solo artist. His song “Oh, oh, Den Haag” became an unofficial anthem for the city, played at ADO Den Haag football matches and even performed by Coldplay during a 2012 concert.

The Golden Pin is The Hague’s highest municipal honor, given to individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the city and its residents. Jekkers joins previous recipients like the members of Golden Earring and shares a namesake square near the Royal Theatre. He recently concluded a run of over 150 sold-out performances and plans to retire from performing.