Koningslied
The Koningslied is a song written for the investiture of prince Willem-Alexander as King of the Netherlands on 30 April 2013 on request of the Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging. Upon release the song was met with criticism and ridicule from the public. As a result of the criticism Ewbank withdrew the Koningslied on 20 April 2013. Nevertheless, the Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging confirmed on 22 April 2013 the song would be used as part of the investiture.
Background, release and controversy
John Ewbank composed the music and wrote the lyrics using suggestions that were sent in during a participation project through Dutch social media and the official website of the inauguration. Artists who cooperated on writing the song are Ali B, Bollebof, Daphne Deckers, Fouradi, Lange Frans, Guus Meeuwis, Kraantje Pappie, Gers Pardoel, and Jack Poels.The Koningslied was released on 19 April 2013. Soon after its release it reached the first position on the iTunes download chart. Both music and lyrics quickly became the subject of criticism and ridicule. The same day, an online petition against the song was started by journalist Sylvia Witteman and signed 20,000 times. It passed the 40,000 mark a few days later. Alternative King's Songs were released on YouTube soon after. As a result of the criticism Ewbank withdrew the Koningslied on 20 April 2013. The Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging confirmed on 22 April 2013 the song would be used as part of the investiture.
The song cost €550,000, which was paid by the broadcaster Nederlandse Publieke Omroep.