Alje Van Bolhuis

Alje van Bolhuis, born September 5, 1951, in Winsum, Netherlands, is a Groningen-based musician, radio personality, and streektaal (regional language) storyteller. After studying law and working for the Groningen provincial government, he became a radio host for Radio Noord's *Aanschoeven bij Alje* and launched his musical career in the 1980s, writing folksy songs in the local dialect. In 1988, he formed the trio **De Boetenbaintjes**, known for their acoustic "luisterliedjes" (listening songs) featuring guitar, accordion, and three-part harmonies, which lasted until 2000. He later performed as part of the duo **Alje & Alfred** with Alfred Maring. Beyond music, he’s recognized for his spoken-word storytelling and preserving Gronings linguistic traditions.

His recent releases like *Alfred en Alje Zingen...* and *Bie T Licht Van de Dag* continue his focus on regional themes, delivered through casual, guitar-driven arrangements and warm vocal harmonies that feel like a cozy pub sing-along. Tracks like *Dizze Raais Thoes* showcase his knack for grounding everyday stories in the rhythms of northern Dutch life.