George Kooymans, co-founder of Golden Earring, passes away at age 77

George Kooymans, the co-founder and guitarist of Golden Earring, a renowned Dutch band known for hits like “Radar Love” and “Twilight Zone,” passed away at the age of 77 due to complications related to ALS. Having been diagnosed with the illness in 2020, Kooymans had since retired from his musical endeavors.

In a heartfelt statement, the family of George Kooymans, along with the remaining members of Golden Earring, expressed their admiration for his resilience in the face of his illness. They paid tribute to his contributions not only to the band but also to the music industry as a whole, highlighting his talent as a musician, composer, and beloved friend, husband, father, and grandfather.

Born in The Hague, George Kooymans played a pivotal role in the formation of Golden Earring during the early 1960s. The band’s name was inspired by a popular instrumental piece at the time, “Golden Earrings.” Kooymans was an integral part of the band’s most recognizable lineup, playing alongside drummer Cesar Zuiderwijk, singer-guitarist Barry Hay, and bassist-keyboardist Rinus Gerritsen for over two decades, until his departure.

Although Golden Earring achieved significant commercial success in their native Netherlands with more than 20 top 10 singles, they also garnered a cult following in the United States in the late 1960s. It was in 1973 that they achieved global recognition with the release of “Radar Love,” a song that has since become an iconic track in the music industry. Over the years, the band continued to tour and record new material, further solidifying their status as legendary musicians.

In addition to their classic track “Radar Love,” Golden Earring’s repertoire included other popular songs like “Twilight Zone,” “When the Lady Smiles,” and “Going to the Run.” The band shared stages with musical giants like Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin and toured with renowned acts such as Aerosmith, Rush, and the Doobie Brothers, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.

To commemorate their 50th anniversary in 2011, Golden Earring received a special honor from the Dutch postal service—a stamp that linked to “Radar Love” through a smartphone app. Although George Kooymans had retired from the band, a farewell performance had been planned for the following year, showcasing the enduring legacy of Golden Earring and their influential music.

The passing of George Kooymans marks the end of an era for Golden Earring and the music industry as a whole, highlighting his immense talent, dedication, and lasting impact on fans worldwide.