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From Camper to Club Stage: ISE Replaces Sick Violet Grohl at Pukkelpop

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Musician ISE unexpectedly replaced Violet Grohl at Pukkelpop festival due to Grohl's illness.
  • ISE, who was attending as a festival-goer, received the last-minute offer just hours before her performance.
  • The 20-year-old artist delivered a powerful set, expressing disbelief and gratitude for the opportunity.

Limburg musician ISE experienced an unforgettable day at Pukkelpop, transitioning from festival-goer to performer in a matter of hours. Initially attending the festival for four days as a regular attendee, ISE was camping when she received a surprise call asking her to replace the ill Violet Grohl.

I am not Violet Grohl. Two hours ago, I was still on the campsite. I had just finished my Aïki noodles. Thank you all for being here.

— ISEISE introduced herself to the Pukkelpop crowd, highlighting the unexpected nature of her performance.

Violet Grohl, daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl, had to cancel her scheduled performance due to voice problems. This created a sudden gap in the Club stage's programming. Studio Brussel's 2024 'De Nieuwe Lichting' winner, ISE, who is only 20 years old, was conveniently nearby. She had performed at Pukkelpop last year but was this year enjoying the festival from Camping Chill.

A list is not available. It's a matter of switching quickly. Who is nearby and hopefully available? Ideally, also musically aligned, of course.

— Frederik LuytenThe Pukkelpop spokesperson explained the challenges of finding a last-minute replacement.

Just hours before her impromptu set, ISE received the call to step in. After her first song, she shared her surreal experience with the audience, stating, "I am not Violet Grohl. Two hours ago, I was still on the campsite. I had just finished my Aïki noodles. Thank you all for being here."

I have ketchup on my pants, my hair is greasy, I stink. But I find it insane that you are all standing here now.

— ISEISE expressed her disbelief and excitement about performing at Pukkelpop while attending as a festival-goer.

Pukkelpop organizers had to act quickly and creatively to find a replacement. Festival spokesperson Frederik Luyten told VRT NWS that there wasn't a prepared list, requiring them to find someone available and musically compatible on short notice. ISE, whose musical idol is Dave Grohl, performed a powerful set, impressing the crowd with her strong vocals and signature crackle, hitting even the highest notes effortlessly. She concluded her performance by thanking the enthusiastic audience and mentioning she'd see them around the festival or campsite.

Thank you for being so enthusiastic. I'll see you here again or see you later at the campsite.

— ISEISE thanked the audience at the end of her set.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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