Caro Emerald Reclaims Her Identity, Drops ‘The Jordan’ Stage Name
Dutch singer-songwriter Caroline van der Leeuw, widely known as Caro Emerald and more recently as The Jordan, is returning to her roots. She has announced she will perform and release novel music under the name Caro, effectively retiring the moniker she adopted in 2022. The decision, revealed on Thursday, February 26, 2026, marks a return to the artist’s original identity and a new chapter in her already successful career. Van der Leeuw, 44, explained that the change brings her back to the core of who she is as an artist, stating, “I am actually always already been Caro.”
The announcement coincides with the release of her new single, “I Can’t Win,” and the upcoming launch of a Dutch theatre tour scheduled to start on October 21st in Amsterdam. The tour, currently encompassing eight shows across the Netherlands including performances in Utrecht and Groningen, will feature new material alongside her established hits. This shift comes after a period of artistic exploration under the name The Jordan, a project she initiated to break away from her previous image and embrace greater creative freedom.
A Period of Artistic Exploration as The Jordan
In 2022, Van der Leeuw adopted the stage name The Jordan, a deliberate move to distance herself from the established persona of Caro Emerald. This decision, as she explained, was intended to unlock new artistic avenues and allow for greater experimentation. According to RTL Boulevard, the period as The Jordan proved incredibly fruitful, providing her with the inspiration to “try everything.” The artist found that this change allowed her to explore different sounds and styles, ultimately enriching her creative process.
The move to The Jordan wasn’t about abandoning her past success, but rather about evolving as an artist. Van der Leeuw expressed pride in her accomplishments as Caro Emerald, acknowledging the impact of hits like “A Night Like This,” “Tangled Up,” and “That Man.” She views the name change not as a rejection of that era, but as an integral part of her overall artistic journey. “I am so proud of what I have achieved with Caro Emerald,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of honoring her past while embracing the future.
Returning to ‘The Core’ with the Name Caro
Despite the success and artistic liberation found under The Jordan, Van der Leeuw felt a pull to return to her original name. The decision to revert to Caro represents a homecoming, a reconnection with the essence of her artistry. As reported by Headliner.nl, she described the change as bringing her “back to the core” of her artistic identity. This suggests a desire for authenticity and a renewed focus on the fundamental elements that define her music.
The singer emphasized that she has “always already been Caro,” indicating that the name change is not merely a rebranding exercise, but a reaffirmation of her true self. This sentiment suggests a deeper connection to the name Caro, one that resonates with her personal and artistic values. The return to Caro similarly acknowledges the enduring legacy of her earlier work, recognizing the importance of maintaining continuity for her fans.
Upcoming Theatre Tour and New Music
The announcement of the name change is accompanied by exciting news for fans. The release of “I Can’t Win” marks the beginning of a new musical phase for Caro, offering a glimpse into the direction of her future work. The upcoming theatre tour, kicking off in Amsterdam on October 21st, promises to be a showcase of this new material, alongside beloved classics.
The tour currently includes performances in Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Groningen, with the possibility of additional dates being added. This intimate setting will allow Caro to connect with her audience on a more personal level, sharing her artistic vision and celebrating her evolution as a musician. The tour represents a significant opportunity for fans to experience Caro’s music in a dynamic and engaging environment.
Impact and Future Outlook
Caro’s decision to revert to her original name is a testament to the power of artistic self-discovery and the importance of staying true to one’s identity. The move demonstrates a willingness to embrace change while honoring the past, a quality that resonates with audiences and critics alike. The success of her previous work as both Caro Emerald and The Jordan has established her as a versatile and innovative artist, capable of captivating audiences with her unique blend of jazz, pop, and electronic influences.
The release of “I Can’t Win” and the upcoming theatre tour signal a new era for Caro, one filled with creative potential and artistic exploration. Fans can anticipate a continuation of her signature sound, infused with the newfound freedom and inspiration gained during her time as The Jordan. The artist’s commitment to authenticity and her unwavering passion for music suggest a bright future for Caro, as she continues to evolve and inspire audiences around the world.
The next confirmed event is the start of the Dutch theatre tour on October 21st, 2026, in Amsterdam. Fans are encouraged to visit Caro’s official website for ticket information and updates on future performances. Share your thoughts on Caro’s new direction in the comments below!