Winning acclaim in the Netherlands across music, TV and theatre, Queer Suriname artist Jeangu Macrooy releases his groove-filled new single Everybody Needs Somebody before heading to London for his first ever UK performance last night!
If you’re a Eurovision fan like me, the name Jeangu Macrooy may already be familiar to you….yessss he represented the Netherlands during their hosting year of 2021 with his entry Birth Of A New Age, written as a response to the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement, and subsequently being covered by the New York Times.
Pour yourself a Jenever and tonic in a tulip-shaped glass and let’s get acquainted with the lovely Jeangu Macrooy.
Who is Jeangu Macrooy? Can you share a bit about yourself and your music?
I’m Jeangu Macrooy, a singer-songwriter originally from Suriname but now based in the Netherlands. My music’s a blend of soul, pop, and folk, with a lot of storytelling at the core. I like to think of it as heartfelt and honest, exploring everything from personal growth to social issues.
What is your new single Everybody Needs Somebody about?
It’s all about connection. I wrote it during a time when I was craving genuine connection and realising how much we all need each other, even when we’re trying to act like we’ve got it all together. It’s a love letter to vulnerability and human connection.
Who inspires you/dream collab?
So many artists inspire me, my musical taste is very eclectic and you wouldn’t always be able to tell the influence in my own music. Right now, I’m really drawn to what artists like Chappell Roan, Doechii, and Raye are doing—creating art that feels authentic and boundary-pushing. Dream collab? Working with Doechii would be incredible. I love how conceptual and fearless she is.
Can you describe your creative process?
It’s a bit of a mess, but a beautiful one! It often starts with a feeling or a phrase that just hits me, and I build from there. Sometimes it’s just me and my guitar, other times I’m playing around with melodies or production ideas in the studio with producers. I try to let the song lead the way.
Would you ever apply for Eurovision again and how was your experience in 2021 representing the Netherlands?
Never say never… Eurovision was such a wild ride. Performing Birth of a New Age on that massive stage was a powerful experience. It felt like a celebration of my culture and identity, and I’m really proud of what we put out there.
Are we getting a new album?
Yes! I’m releasing a new album this year. It’s my favourite album at the moment, and that’s always a very good sign that I’ve made music that is authentic to me, and that I would listen to. Can’t wait to share the entire body of work! Plus, I’ll be touring it in theaters across the Netherlands this fall with my band, which I’m really excited about.
What else do you get up to in the Netherlands? Besides making music?
Well, I just wrapped up playing the lead role in Jesus Christ Superstar—that was an amazing experience. And later this year, I’ll be playing Orpheus in Hadestown at Carré (Royal Theater) which I’m super hyped about.
Outside of that, I’m enjoying Amsterdam, hanging out with friends, and trying to find the best food spots.
If you could host a dinner party with any guests, living or dead, who would they be, and what kind of discussion would unfold?
That’s a big one. I’d invite Nina Simone, James Baldwin, Rihanna and my grandmother. I feel like the conversation would be this amazing mix of art, social change, and personal stories. And, of course, I’d be soaking it all in and probably trying not to fanboy too hard.
How was your debut UK show at the legendary venue Hootananny (Brixton) last night?
There was lot of energy and soul. I love connecting with a crowd and making it feel like we’re all in this big, beautiful vibe together. It was my first UK show, so I brought all the love I could.
Any more live shows coming up/dream gig?
Definitely more shows! I’m touring my new album later this year in the Netherlands. Dream gig? I’d love to play Glastonbury one day. That would be insane.
Let us know your thoughts on X (formerly Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Jeangu Macrooy on his socials and stream Everybody Needs Somebody HERE :).
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