History of George Kooymans in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 24, 2025

George Kooymans was a Dutch guitarist and vocalist, most famously known for his work with the rock band Golden Earring. He was a key songwriter for the band, penning their biggest hit, "Twilight Zone," which achieved significant success in the United States, reaching number one on the Billboard Top Album Tracks chart and breaking into the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100. Kooymans's contributions were central to Golden Earring's international recognition.

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Full Timeline

March 1948: George Kooymans Born

On March 1948, George Jan Kooymans was born. He became a Dutch guitarist and vocalist, best known for his work with Golden Earring.

Others born on this day/year

1961: Formation of The Tornados

In 1961, George Kooymans and Rinus Gerritsen formed a rock duo initially called "The Tornados".

1965: Debut Single Release

In 1965, The Golden Earrings, with Frans Krassenburg on lead vocals, had a hit with their debut single "Please Go".

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1970: Finalization of Golden Earring Lineup

By 1970, with Cesar Zuiderwijk replacing Sieb Warner, the principal lineup of Golden Earring, which would last for 50 years, was finalized.

1973: "Radar Love" Success

In 1973, Golden Earring achieved worldwide fame with their international hit song "Radar Love", which went to number one on the Dutch chart.

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1982: "Twilight Zone" Hit

In 1982, Golden Earring released "Twilight Zone" which became an international hit song.

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1984: "When the Lady Smiles" Success

In 1984, Golden Earring released "When the Lady Smiles", which became another international hit song.

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2017: Vreemde Kostgangers Formation

From 2017, George Kooymans released three albums as a member of Vreemde Kostgangers, a Dutch-language supergroup.

February 2021: ALS Diagnosis and Retirement

In February 2021, George Kooymans announced that he was suffering from ALS and would retire. Shortly afterward, Golden Earring announced they would disband.