BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE is not just a concert. It's a piece of musical history.

Published: 18.12.2025

by: Christina Hazelden - Photo: Camilla Winther

We caught up with a busy Caroline Henderson in the middle of the Christmas rush. But the hustle and bustle immediately disappeared when the conversation turned to BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE, which hits Musikhuset on January 30. Here, Caroline explains why the audience always ends up standing up when they hit a certain point in the concert.

It's December and the calendar is red-hot. That's true for most of us, but it's especially true for an artist like Caroline Henderson, who tours the country sparsely with Christmas concerts.

That's why I actually expected a quick and efficient interview when I got her on the phone. But the reality was different. Caroline Henderson took her time. There was a calmness and presence in the conversation that you rarely experience during a busy press time. And when we started talking about BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE I could feel a passion that clearly burned through the phone line. This is clearly not just “another job” for Caroline Henderson. It's a mission.

A treasure trove of songs that is enormous

The show, which you can experience at the Musikhuset in January, is a musical relay race that runs from the 1970s to the present day. It is the story of women who have fought and loved and sung their way into the history books. And the material is so extensive that they never run out.

“The treasure trove of songs that we are delving into is enormous. So it could never ever just be completed with one show,” says Caroline Henderson, elaborating on her passion for the project:

“It has always been a dream to be allowed to continue interpreting these fantastic songs, which I believe are the foundation in many ways of modern music.”

One of the most fascinating aspects of the project is the dynamic between the five soloists: Caroline Henderson, Karen Mukupa, Nabiha, Iris Gold and new member Betty Bass. Five women, each with their own distinctive visual style and unique voice. The goal is to create a narrative where the audience does not experience five mini-concerts but one overall journey.

Photo: Petra Kleis

We stand on the shoulders of giants

The music is the foundation, but the story is the heart of the show. Instead of just focusing on the hits we all know, the show digs deeper into music history. It's about finding the nuggets and paying tribute to the women who truly created the foundation for the modern music we listen to today.

Caroline Henderson describes it as a necessary journey back to the roots to understand today's sound:

“Modern music is fundamentally built on this heritage. First came the blues, then jazz, and then hip-hop grew out of soul. That's why I have to look back and ask: Where do we come from, and what shoulders do we stand on?”

BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE puts a spotlight on these pioneers. It is a tribute to those who paved the way, and the repertoire ranges widely. From soul and jazz to 90s R&B with groups like TLC.

The moment when everyone stands up

However, there is one moment in the show that hits deeper than anything else. I clearly felt this in Caroline when we talked about the Danish icon Natasja.

Natasja is on the setlist alongside international stars like Beyoncé and Nina Simone. It's no coincidence. Caroline Henderson says that during Natasja's songs, something physical happens in the hall:

“When we get to Natasja, something happens in the hall. Everyone stands up and everyone sings along. Partly, of course, it's her short life and the struggles she also fought. But it's also because of her lyrics. They are eternal and almost iconic today.”

Seeing that tribute unfold on stage with Natasja's old friend Karen Mukupa as part of the team is one of those rare moments you remember long after the lights have gone out.

That's why you have to go.

Although you may have experienced the concept before, the 2026 edition is a new experience. There is new scenography and new stories and lots of new songs on the set list.

After my chat with Caroline Henderson, I am left with the feeling that this will be an evening that binds us together. Whether you have danced to the songs at a club in New York or listened to them on a radio in Aarhus. It is a party, but it is a party with attitude and heart.

If the passion on stage comes close to the passion I met on the phone, then BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE will be an evening at the Musikhuset you shouldn't miss.

BLACK VOICES – A TRIBUTE

Who is on stage Caroline Henderson, Karen Mukupa, Nabiha, Iris Gold and Betty Bass.

This is what the reviewers at Politiken say: “These are five unusually well-mannered, talented women who pay tribute to their predecessors together and individually for full blown performances.”

GAFFA: “A tribute manifesto that invites everyone into seriousness and play.”

Practical info