Golden Earring Golden Earring

Golden Earring: The Dutch Rock Legends Behind "Radar Love"

Golden Earring, a Dutch rock group formed in 1961, rose to international fame with their iconic hit "Radar Love." Throughout their six-decade career, they faced challenges, sparked controversies, and left an indelible mark on the music world.

Early Years and Success

Golden Earring's origins can be traced back to The Golden Earrings, a beat band led by Rinus Gerritsen and George Kooymans. In 1963, they released their debut album, "Just Earrings," which featured their early hit single "Please Go."

Over the next few years, the band underwent several lineup changes, with Kooymans and Gerritsen remaining the core members. They released a string of successful albums, including "On the Double" (1969) and "Seven Tears" (1971), which earned them a devoted fan base in the Netherlands.

International Breakthrough with "Radar Love"

In 1973, Golden Earring released "Radar Love," a captivating rock anthem that showcased their signature blend of hard rock and catchy melodies. The song became a worldwide hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning the band international recognition.

"Radar Love" remains one of the most well-known and beloved rock songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists, including U2, the White Stripes, and Bruce Springsteen.

Challenges and Controversies

Golden Earring's success was not without its challenges. In 1976, guitarist Eelco Gelling died tragically in a car accident. The band was devastated by the loss, but they persevered and continued to tour and record.

In 2006, the band faced controversy when lead singer Barry Hay was accused of making racist remarks. Hay issued an apology, but the incident cast a shadow over Golden Earring's reputation.

Discography

Golden Earring has released over 30 studio albums, including:

* "Just Earrings" (1963)
* "On the Double" (1969)
* "Seven Tears" (1971)
* "Moontan" (1973)
* "Switch" (1975)
* "Grab It for a Second" (1978)
* "Cut" (1982)
* "Bloody Buccaneers" (1991)
* "Millbrook U.S.A." (1995)

Members

Throughout their history, Golden Earring has had several lineup changes. The current members include:

* George Kooymans - guitar, vocals
* Rinus Gerritsen - bass, vocals
* Barry Hay - lead vocals
* Cesar Zuiderwijk - drums, percussion

Legacy and Impact

Golden Earring is one of the most successful and influential Dutch rock bands of all time. Their music has inspired countless musicians and continues to resonate with audiences around the world. "Radar Love" remains their signature song, a timeless rock anthem that has cemented their place in music history.

Despite challenges and controversies, Golden Earring has endured for over six decades, proving their resilience and unwavering passion for rock and roll.