Dennis van Aarssen in 2025: Milestones and memories

2025 was a year full of unforgettable moments, challenges, and achievements. Looking back, the highlights stand out clearly, moments that shaped my journey and deepened my passion for music. This year was especially meaningful because it revolved around my mission to Keep The Great Crooners Alive, a cause close to my heart. From seeing some of my biggest musical heroes (that are still alive) in concert for the first time to embarking on my first international tour and releasing my most ambitious album yet, 2025 was a year of more growth, connection, and celebration.

Seeing my heroes

One of the most inspiring parts of 2025 was finally experiencing three of my biggest musical heroes that are still active, in concert. Each of these performances was a unique moment that fueled my dedication to the crooner tradition:

• Harry Connick Jr. at the MetOpera, New York City

Watching Harry Connick Jr. perform in such an iconic venue was a dream come true. His smooth voice, phenomenal piano playing and charismatic presence reminded me why I fell in love with crooning in the first place. With an amazing set and his insane orchestra it was simply an incredible show that I will never forget.

• Jamie Cullum at TivoliVredenburg, Utrecht

Jamie Cullum’s energy and jazz-infused style brought a fresh perspective to the crooner genre. His show was intimate yet powerful, connecting deeply with the audience. The way he interacted with the audience musically really stood out to me!

• Robbie Williams at Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam

Robbie Williams delivered a spectacular performance filled with emotion and showmanship. He is all about entertainment and man, did he deliver!

These concerts were moments of inspiration that reinforced my mission to keep this style of music alive and thriving. It's amazing to see the differences between these artists and their shows. They're all unique in their own way, but the most important trait they all share is clear to me: Pure authenticity!

My First International Tour

Besides visiting concerts, 2025 was also filled with my own concerts! March marked a major milestone with my first international tour. Traveling through five European countries (The Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, France, and Germany) was both exciting and humbling. Each show was sold out, and the energy from the audiences was incredible.

Touring with American pianist Jeff Franzel and my own bass player Richard Frijters added a special dynamic to the experience. Their musicianship and camaraderie made every performance memorable. Meeting fans across Europe who share a love for crooner music was one of the most rewarding parts of the tour. Their enthusiasm and support gave me new motivation to continue this journey.

My Most Ambitious Album Yet

2025 was also the year I recorded my fifth studio album, Souvenirs. This project was the most ambitious I’ve undertaken so far, featuring more musicians than ever before. Although the album contains only one original song ('Souvenirs' itself), it feels deeply personal. Each track connects to a memory that holds special meaning for me.

The process of recording Souvenirs was intense but fulfilling. Bringing together a larger group of talented musicians allowed me to explore richer arrangements and textures. The album’s theme of memories and nostalgia fits perfectly with my mission to honor the great crooners of the past while adding my own touch.

Playing these songs live during the Keep The Great Crooners Alive tour in The Netherlands was a highlight. Seeing the audience respond so warmly to the music and the message made all the hard work worthwhile. The album was released on November 14th and is now available on all streaming platforms, as well as on CD and vinyl in my webshop!

Celebrating the Season with the DvA Bigband

As the year drew to a close, December brought a series of Christmas shows with the DvA Bigband, as always. Thanks to my amazing fans, these shows were filled with festive spirit and joy! Playing my favorite Christmas songs with my own incredible band and hearing the fans sing along, will never stop blowing my mind. It makes me realize how lucky I am that I get to live my dream because of all of these loving, positive and kind people! That's what makes this season the most wonderful time of the year for me!

I love being in the studio and writing and recording new music, but the energy and connection during shows reminds me why live music is so powerful. It brings people together, creates shared experiences, and leaves lasting impressions. And the craftsmanship of the people I work with, always inspires me to keep going and to keep growing!

Looking Ahead

Now that 2025 has come to an end, I’m grateful for the incredible experiences and the people I’ve met along the way. Spending time with family and friends during the holidays is a perfect way to recharge before diving into the next chapter.

The journey to keep the great crooners alive continues, and I’m excited about what the future holds. With new music, tours in Holland and Germany, and more incredible opportunities on the horizon, I look forward to sharing more moments with fans old and new! And if you're reading this, I just want to say: Thank you. Your support means more to me than you'll probably ever realize. I'll always keep giving back as much as I can, because you're giving me more than I could ever ask for. ❤️ I hope to see you during one of my tours in 2026!