Shocking Blue - Long and Lonesome Road b/w Fireball of love 7" Picture SLeeve Single

This one of the first recordings of Shocking Blue, before their the USA no1 hit "Venus"

 

large album front cover photo of: Shocking Blue - Long and Lonesome Road

Artist/Band:  Shocking Blue   

Music Genre:

 
Nederbeat, Pop
Record Collector's Info:  P/S Picture Sleeve , Pink Elephant Master
Tracks side 1:  Long and Lonesome Road
Tracks side 2:  Fireball of Love

Record Label & Catalognr:

Metronome M 25 140

Vinyl Record Format:

 
7" Single, PS Picture Sleeve  

Year & Country:

 
1969 Made in Germany
Shocking Blue: The Dutch Rock Band that Shook the World with 'Venus'

SHOCKING BLUE Description:

Shocking Blue was a Dutch rock band that was active from 1967 to 1974. They are perhaps best known for their hit single "Venus," which topped the charts in several countries in 1970, including the United States.

The band was formed in The Hague in 1967 by guitarist Robbie van Leeuwen. Other founding members included bassist Klaasje van der Wal, drummer Cor van der Beek, and lead singer Fred de Wilde. Shocking Blue's early sound was heavily influenced by American rock and roll and British invasion bands like The Beatles and The Who.

Shocking Blue's breakthrough came in 1969 with the release of their single "Venus." The song's infectious melody and catchy chorus helped it climb to the top of the charts in several countries. "Venus" was the first single by a Dutch band to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.

Despite the success of "Venus," Shocking Blue was never able to replicate its commercial success. The band continued to release albums and singles throughout the early 1970s, but none of their subsequent singles achieved the same level of success as "Venus."

In addition to "Venus," Shocking Blue had several other hits in Europe, including "Send Me a Postcard," "Mighty Joe," and "Never Marry a Railroad Man." The band's music was characterized by its catchy melodies and upbeat rock and roll sound.

Shocking Blue's music was also notable for its incorporation of Eastern influences, particularly on their 1969 album "At Home." The album featured several songs with Indian and Middle Eastern-inspired melodies and instrumentation.

In addition to their music, Shocking Blue was also known for their fashion sense. Lead singer Mariska Veres was known for her bohemian style and long, flowing hair. The band's fashion sense helped to cement their image as a quintessential 1960s and 1970s rock band.

Shocking Blue disbanded in 1974, and several of its members went on to pursue solo careers. Despite their relatively short career, the band's music continues to be celebrated by fans of 1960s and 1970s rock and roll.