Let's make this birthday one to remember.

54 years old (Born on August 22, 1970)

Happy birthday to the remarkable Erik van der Luijt—the Dutch Oscar Peterson himself! Another year of your life, another twelve months of dazzling audiences and baffling fellow pianists. Your muscular, surging swing and powerful left hand have inspired awe in many (and perhaps a tad envy too). Honestly Erik, how do you make complexity seem so easy?

Whether you're commanding jazz clubs with energetic solos or delivering harmonious brilliance on stage, every performance proves just why you're among the absolute best. Here's wishing you continued success—may your riffs remain robust and your groove unstoppable for countless birthdays ahead!