Bente
Singer-songwriter and actress Bente is one of the most captivating voices in the Dutch music scene. Known for her powerful yet vulnerable lyrics, she broke through with Liefste, Ken Je Mij and has since collaborated with artists like Maan, Ronnie Flex, Typhoon, and Meau. Following her acclaimed debut Als Ik Met De Wind Kon Dansen, Bente returns with her stunning second album drift. A deeply personal collection that brings themes like love, loss, and identity to life. “Growing up, everything that comes with it, and longing for childhood,” is how she describes it and you feel that in every track. Now, as part of the second leg of her successful tour, Bente brings her heartfelt sound to Hit The City. Don’t miss this intimate, soul-stirring performance!
Pommelien Thijs
Belgian pop sensation Pommelien Thijs brings her magnetic voice and cinematic soundscapes to Ketelhuisplein. With chart-topping hits like ‘Atlas’, Erop of Eronder,’ ‘Ongewoon,’ and ‘Het Beste Moet Nog Komen,’ Pommelien fuses infectious pop with bold themes; climate anxiety, mental health, and the chaos of young love. She crafts her own musical universe, filled with subtle Easter eggs and hidden clues that tease what’s still to come. Every performance, lyric, and visual detail connects to a larger story still unfolding. Expect a dazzling, self-directed show blending powerful visuals, sustainable fashion, and a voice that resonates across generations.
Blanks
Blanks delivers an irresistible blast of feel-good pop.The Dutch singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, also known as Simon de Wit, first lit up the global stage with his infectious YouTube covers, but quickly proved he’s much more than a viral sensation. With his signature blend of upbeat pop, retro nostalgia, and dancefloor-ready hooks, Blanks has carved out a sound that’s uniquely his own. His debut album ‘Nothing Lasts Forever And That’s OK’ became an instant fan favorite, and he’s been unstoppable ever since. In 2024, Blanks took his band on a whirlwind tour across the US, Canada, and Europe, and caught the attention of BBC Radio 1’s Future Pop with his latest single ‘Love Situation’. And when he’s not lighting up the stage himself, he’s co-writing with rising stars like MEAU and Pommelien Thijs.
Chloe Slater
From the housing crisis to the impact of social media on young people: Chloe Slater packs a whole bunch of issues from the age of internet culture into catchy, and angst-driven guitar pop anthems.
The 21-year-old singer-songwriter on the rise, is carving her path in the realm of independent music. Born and raised in Bournemouth, she has been writing songs since she was 13 years old. After moving to Manchester for University, she found her voice in the effervescent open mic scene and has since been collaborating closely with writer/producer Jack Shute. As she continues to shed a light on overlooked issues, 2025 promises even more for her. Hear her out, she might just be the next big indie rock icon!
Maan
Maan is without a doubt one of the most successful pop artists in the Netherlands. In 2022, she sold out the Ziggo Dome, and her smash hit ‘Stiekem’ (with Goldband) became the most streamed song in the Netherlands on Spotify in 2023. After taking a step back to reconnect with her musical roots, Maan returns with her brand-new album Eclips — a bold, emotional journey that showcases her artistic growth. Joined by her live band, Maan brings a fresh new show filled with stunning visuals, raw energy, and of course, brand-new music. Don’t miss this chance to experience the next phase of Maan.
Aili
Get ready for an unforgettable night as Belgian-Japanese electro-pop duo Aili takes the stage! Their debut album ‘Nandakke?’ blends dreamy electro-pop and house with deeply personal tales of Japanese fashion and family traditions. Tracks like ‘Fashion’ and ‘Babychan’ have garnered airtime on influential stations such as KEXP and KCRW, while landing on major Spotify playlists like Metropolis and Pollen, reaching millions of listeners. The album even claimed the top spot on KCRW’s Top 30 Album Chart. Known for their high-voltage live performances, Aili has graced legendary stages, toured alongside L’Impératrice, and sold-out clubs across Japan. Their playful dynamic and electrifying stage presence captivate audiences, leaving them spellbound.
Babymorocco
Swaggy. Sexy. Supercharged. Babymorocco isn’t just performing, he’s detonating dancefloors. Imagine the chaotic ecstasy of a 2AM basement rave: sweat dripping, bass rattling your ribcage and you're still only halfway to what he’s about to bring. A sonic sugar rush of trash-pop, 2-step, happy hardcore, and BPM chaos, Babymorocco is hurtling full speed into his solo era with zero brakes. Think Justice meets Lindsay Lohan, with a heavy dash of glitter, distortion, and dirty pop rebellion. He’s melted minds on stage with Dorian Electra, Jockstrap, Frost Children, and even at Shygirl’s Boiler Room. Now, he’s bringing his genre-smashing, style-drenched madness to Hit The City. If you're looking for subtlety, stay home. If you're ready to sweat, scream, and lose yourself in the most unhinged party of the year; we’ll see you front row.
Cliffords
The Cork-based indie rock/pop sensation Cliffords is taking the music scene by storm! Known for their dynamic sound that effortlessly blends punchy indie energy with irresistible pop hooks. Having already earned comparisons to powerhouses like Wolf Alice and INHALER, they bring a raw, vibrant energy that’s hard to ignore. Fresh off a stellar performance at Electric Picnic’s 3 Stage and with their debut EP ‘Strawberry Scented’ making waves, Cliffords are cementing their place as one of Ireland's most exciting emerging acts. From sold-out gigs in London, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, and their hometown of Cork, they are ready to bring their electrifying live show to you.
JERUB
From the heart of Nigeria to the streets of Nottingham, JERUB’s journey is one of raw talent and unstoppable momentum. Bursting onto the scene as a standout finalist in BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge Introducing talent search, selected from over 10,000 entries, he has been on a meteoric rise ever since. Highlights include an opening performance at The King’s Coronation Concert alongside Pete Tong, and widespread press support from the likes of Wonderland, Noctis, and Notion. With major playlist backing from Spotify and high praise from BBC Radio 1, along with over 200 regional UK playlist additions, JERUB is quickly becoming a name to watch. Catch this future star live at Hit The City and witness a voice that's ready to shape the next era of British music.
Lusaint
Lusaint never imagined a music career, until she racked up over 70 million streams and became one of the UK’s most exciting new voices. Inspired by jazz greats like Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald, her raw, timeless vocals and soul-drenched storytelling have won hearts across the UK and Europe. From viral covers to BBC Radio 1 acclaim and praise from Elton John, Lusaint’s journey is as unique as her sound. Her debut EP Self Sabotage blends pop, soul, and vulnerability into tracks that hit home, with singles like “Fool For You,” “Sweet Tooth,” and “Sober” drawing major buzz. With sold-out shows and international airplay, Lusaint is not just rising, she’s soaring.