Esbjerg Honors Madsen

Behind the music is Johnny Madsen Jam – a band that Johnny Madsen himself has praised as a worthy interpreter of his legendary songs. The trio consists of Jesper Nordam (bass), Mogens Mortensen (guitar & vocals), and Mikael Bundgaard (drums). They will be joined by a strong lineup of local musicians: Emil Brinch (keys), Mads Jørgensen (guitar), Zenia Madsen and Susanne Kristensen (backing vocals).

Powerful soloists with tons of personality

The evening will be spiced up with a string of talented singers, each adding their unique touch to Madsen’s iconic songs:

• La La Ladies: Esbjerg’s new powerhouse female quartet, rooted in opera, country, rock, pop, and gospel. Featuring Tanni Christine, Anette Bojsen, Anne Fjord, and Kirstine Bonde.

• Eigil Bak: Since the early days of the legendary Esbjerg band Vestkraft, frontman Eigil Bak has kept his songwriter's workshop buzzing. Now performing under the name Bakland, his music is still heard on stages across Denmark. Many experience his style as deeply rooted in the spirit of Johnny Madsen – rich in imagery and a distinctive local poetry

• Sveinur Kjær Gaard: Sveinur rose to fame in X Factor 2012, where he took an impressive third place. A true rocker at heart, he has since performed in various musical settings. Today, he’s best known as the frontman of Black Sabbath Experience. We’re proud that he and his family have now made Esbjerg their home.

• Kasper Hansen: If you've spent time in the local music scene, you've likely come across Kasper as the frontman of DAD JAM or during a Kim Larsen tribute. Now, he takes on the honor of paying tribute to Johnny Madsen in Madsen’s own hometown – a task he approaches with humility, a touch of reverence, and deep respect for both the music and the people who hold it close. In short, you’ll witness a tribute filled with edge, heart, and a wink of humor.

• Martin Neuber: Martin has been a part of the Esbjerg music scene for nearly 30 years as a guitarist and singer. Over the years, he’s fronted countless gigs with bands like Blueskabyssen and the high-energy Mors Drenge. With half his family from Thyborøn, his home has always followed Johnny’s career closely – making it something truly special to perform a few of Johnny’s songs on this occasion.

• Ninna Andreasen: With songs like “Den Sidste Vinterdag”, “Kridthuset”, “Stæreblind” and “Mellem dig og mig”, Ninna Andreasen has moved audiences for the past 15 years. Sometimes to tears of laughter, other times to tears of tenderness. Her storytelling – both in and between songs – is rooted in quirky reflections on life. This has drawn comparisons to artists like Allan Olsen, Johnny Madsen, and Niels Hausgaard.

Look forward to an evening of blues, rock, and loads of soul, as Esbjerg pays tribute to one of its own. It will no doubt be a truly unique opening to Esbjerg Festival!