Jannemiek, 68, Watches Over ‘Serious Request’ in Zwolle from Her Home: ‘Not My Music‘
ZWOLLE, Netherlands — Jannemiek, a 68-year-old resident of Zwolle, has a unique daily routine. Every day, she gazes out of her window, keeping a watchful eye on the ‘Serious Request’ event taking place below. Her reason? To ensure that the music played aligns with her tastes.
"I don’t want my music," she says with a chuckle, her eyes twinkling with a mix of amusement and determination. "I just want to make sure they’re playing something I like."
The ‘Serious Request’ event, an annual charity drive by Dutch radio station 3FM, has become a fixture in Zwolle’s calendar. This year, it’s being held at the city’s main square, right beneath Jannemiek’s window.
Jannemiek, a lifelong music lover, has been keeping tabs on the event since it started. She’s not just a casual observer, though. She’s become something of a local celebrity, known for her unique perspective on the event.
"I’ve been listening to music all my life," she says. "I’ve seen bands come and go, and I’ve always had my favorites. I just want to make sure they’re playing something good."
Her favorite genres? Anything from the ’60s and ‘70s, she says. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and ABBA are among her top picks. She’s not too keen on the electronic dance music that’s popular these days, she admits with a laugh.
The DJs at 3FM have taken notice of Jannemiek’s presence. They often wave at her and even play a song or two based on her requests, transmitted through a walkie-talkie she uses to communicate with them.
"It’s become a bit of a game between us," she says. "I enjoy it, and I think they do too."
Jannemiek’s story has captured the hearts of Zwolle’s residents and the wider Dutch public. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of a serious event like ‘Serious Request’, there’s room for a bit of fun and personal connection.
For Jannemiek, it’s more than just about the music. It’s about the community, the connection, and the joy of sharing something she loves with others. And that, she says, is what makes ‘Serious Request’ truly special.
