Esther Goedvolk, known as DJ Je Moeder, defies age norms in Amsterdam’s nightlife at nearly 60. Her musical journey began in the 1980s, and after overcoming personal challenges, including a battle with cancer, she reignited her passion for music. By 2018, she embraced DJing with diverse genres and gained recognition at major events like Zwarte Cross and Milkshake. Her story highlights resilience and the joy of uplifting others through her performances, marking a significant presence in the music scene.
The Rise of DJ Je Moeder: A Unique Journey
Amidst the vibrant nightlife of Amsterdam, where the clubs pulsate with energy, Esther Goedvolk, known as DJ Je Moeder, navigates through a sea of enthusiastic fans. As she makes her way from the DJ booth to the bar, a young patron approaches her, surprised by her talent. With a bright smile, Goedvolk acknowledges the perception that she defies the typical image of a DJ. At almost 60 years old, she stands out in an industry that remains predominantly male and youthful.
A Musical Beginning and Personal Triumphs
Esther’s musical journey began in the 1980s, sparked by a competition at her local club in Gouda. As a teenager, she was determined to share her top ten tracks, and her selection resonated with the audience, granting her the opportunity to step behind the decks. With a mix of New Wave, Punk, and popular hits from Earth, Wind & Fire, her debut was a hit, and she spent the next two years entertaining with drink tokens as her reward.
At the age of 21, Esther moved to Amsterdam to pursue a degree in Russian but quickly shifted her focus to her career, balancing life as a secretary, a mother of three, and later, a project manager for a film festival. However, her world turned upside down when she was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2013, leading to extensive surgery and a challenging recovery process that lasted years. It was during this difficult time that she rediscovered her passion for music, volunteering as a DJ for elderly events in Rotterdam, where she found joy in uplifting others through her performances.
On her 53rd birthday, Esther requested a DJ course voucher, despite age restrictions on state-funded programs. Undeterred, she pursued private lessons for two years, mastering various styles and embracing new technology, all while facing the curious stares of younger peers. With renewed determination, she re-entered the music scene as DJ Je Moeder in 2018, focusing on genres like R’n’B, Hip-Hop, Afrobeat, and Soul. Her initial gigs in gyms may not have been lucrative, but they were significant milestones in her journey toward independence and entrepreneurial thinking.
By 2021, Goedvolk’s talent caught the attention of larger venues, leading her to perform at the opening of Amsterdam’s DeLaMar theater. The following year marked a turning point, as she played at major events like Zwarte Cross, a renowned music festival, and Milkshake, Amsterdam’s iconic queer festival. With these performances came proper compensation and a growing following on social media, where fans celebrated her success. One enthusiastic comment after a show at the legendary Paradiso venue summed it up: ‘DJ Je Moeder really rocked the house.’ This is just the beginning for Esther Goedvolk, whose story is a testament to resilience and passion for music.