Shocking Blue

Dutch rock group formed in 1967 by former The Motions guitarist Robbie van Leeuwen, alongside Cor van der Beek (drums), Klaasje van der Wal (bass), and Fred de Wilde (vocals). Their debut single reached the Dutch Top 40 in 1968. Mariska Veres joined as lead vocalist shortly after, and the group achieved worldwide chart success in 1969-1970 with the hit single "Venus" and several follow-up releases. The lineup evolved through the early 1970s with changes to bass and guitar players. The group disbanded in 1975, with Robbie van Leeuwen attempting a brief relaunch in 1979 that yielded limited release.