"Winter Harvest"was the 2nd LP recorded by the "Golden Earrings", some of the songs were already recorded during 1965-66 and put together on this LP in 1967.Note that the band name during this period was "Golden EarringS", this name was used until they were forced to shorten it for USA commercial reasons into "Golden Earring"
In the late 1960s, a musical phenomenon known as Nederbeat emerged from the Netherlands, capturing the essence of the era's cultural and artistic spirit. The Golden Earrings, as they were initially named, played a pivotal role in this movement, leaving an indelible mark with their second LP, "Winter Harvest," released in 1967.
The time period surrounding the creation of "Winter Harvest" reflects the vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape of the 1960s. This was an era characterized by significant social and political upheavals, as well as a burgeoning counterculture that sought to challenge conventional norms. The music of the time became a powerful vehicle for expressing these sentiments, and the Golden Earrings were at the forefront of this musical revolution.
"Winter Harvest" stands as a testament to the band's evolution and artistic prowess. The album is a compilation of songs recorded during the years 1965-66, showcasing the band's musical journey during this pivotal period. It provides a snapshot of the Nederbeat sound, a distinctive blend of beat, pop, and rock that defined the Dutch music scene at the time.
During this period, the Golden Earrings, with the 'S' at the end of their name, were a force to be reckoned with in the Dutch music scene. The album reflects the band's commitment to experimentation and their ability to push musical boundaries. The tracks featured on "Winter Harvest" highlight the diverse influences that shaped the Nederbeat genre, from rhythm and blues to psychedelic elements.
It is noteworthy that the band's name underwent a transformation during this time. Originally known as the Golden Earrings, the 'S' in their name was later dropped for commercial reasons when they ventured into the American market, becoming the Golden Earring.
The LP's release in 1967 adds another layer to its historical significance. This was a period when the world was witnessing the rise of iconic bands and the birth of timeless classics. Against this backdrop, "Winter Harvest" emerged as a gem in the Nederbeat crown, solidifying the Golden Earrings' place in the annals of music history.
The production of the album speaks to the technical and creative challenges faced by artists in the 1960s. Analog recording equipment, limited track options, and the absence of modern digital technologies posed hurdles that demanded ingenuity and skill. The result is an album that captures the raw, authentic sound of the era, reflecting the imperfections and spontaneity that defined the recording process of the time.
Music Genre: Pop pre-70s, Nederbeat |
Collector's Information/Trivia: This album Winter Harvest was the 2nd LP recorded by the Golden Earrings, some of the songs were already recorded during 1965-66 and put together on this LP in 1967.Note that the band name during this period was "Golden EarringS", this name was used until they were forced to shorten it for USA commercial reasons into "Golden Earring" |
Album Design:
The colors of the faces on the front cover are flat by design and not because of aging . Photography: Herman Kooymans Production Details: Produced by Fred Haayen Production |
Record Company/Label: Polydor |
Catalog/Release nr: 2419 053 (2419053) |
Vinyl Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record MONO |
Year: 1967 |
Country of pressing Made in Holland |
Band Members and Musicianson: GOLDEN EARRINGS WINTER HARVEST NEDERBEAT |
Complete Track Listing of: GOLDEN EARRINGS WINTER HARVEST NEDERBEAT |
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
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"GOLDEN EARRINGS - Winter Harvest" Record Label Details: Description © Copyright ℗ Sound Copyright
George Kooymans, the celebrated Dutch guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of Golden Earring, has passed away at the age of 77 after a long and courageous battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). His death marks the end of an era for Dutch rock music and leaves a profound silence where once there was the fierce echo of electric riffs and melodic innovation.
Born in The Hague on March 11, 1948, George Kooymans began his musical journey in the early 1960s, co-founding Golden Earring (initially known as The Golden Earrings) at the tender age of 13. Over the decades, he would become the band's creative cornerstone, writing many of their biggest hits and contributing a distinctive guitar sound that fused raw energy with lyrical elegance.
Kooymans was the composer of "Twilight Zone," the band's breakthrough hit in the United States in 1982, and co-wrote the anthemic "Radar Love," a rock classic that still echoes through concert halls, car radios, and playlists across the world. His guitar work was both muscular and melodic, driving the band's success while influencing generations of musicians.
Throughout a career that spanned over 50 years, Kooymans remained dedicated to his craft, performing on stage with unrelenting passion and humility. In early 2021, he publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis, leading to Golden Earring’s decision to disband, a poignant closure for a group that had stayed together with its classic lineup for nearly five decades.
Beyond the stage, George Kooymans was a quiet and thoughtful man, known for his dry humor, love of Americana music, and deep friendship with his bandmates, especially Barry Hay, Rinus Gerritsen, and Cesar Zuiderwijk. He also released solo material and worked as a producer for other Dutch artists, always with a keen ear for authenticity and emotion.
George spent his final years surrounded by loved ones and supported by the deep admiration of fans in the Netherlands and far beyond. His bravery in facing ALS, a disease that robbed him of the ability to play but never his dignity or spirit, inspired many.
He is survived by his wife and family, and by the legacy of a band that put Dutch rock on the global map. George Kooymans may have left the stage, but his music will reverberate for generations to come.
"There's a feeling I get when I look to the West..."
"Golden Earring's 1975 compilation album, 'The Best Of Golden Earring 10 Years 20 Hits,' is a sonic journey through the vibrant '70s rock scene. Released by Arcade Records, the LP features iconic tracks like 'Radar Love' and 'Another 45 Miles,' showcasing the Dutch band's musical evolution. This collectors' gem, in 12" Vinyl LP format, transcends time, highlighting Golden Earring's enduring legacy in the annals of rock history."
The Best Of Golden Earring 10 Years 20 Hits 12" Vinyl LPGolden Earring's 1976 album, "Contraband," epitomizes the 1970s rock scene. The LP, a blend of live energy and studio innovation, mirrors the era's musical evolution. Characterized by analog warmth, the production reflects meticulous attention. The album cover, a visual ode to 1970s European aesthetics, complements the LP's sonic journey. "Contraband" remains a cherished artifact, encapsulating the spirit of a musical epoch.
Contraband 12" Vinyl LPGolden Earring's 1976 album, "To The Hilt," is a sonic masterpiece featuring a fusion of rock, prog, and hard rock. Produced by the band and Fred Haayen, it showcases meticulous sound engineering by John Kriek and Robert Ash. The iconic album cover, designed by Hipgnosis, reflects the surreal and hypnotic spirit of the music.
To The Hilt 12" Vinyl LP AlbumGolden Earring's Live Vinyl 2LP Album, released in 1977 Germany, epitomizes the musical spirit of the era. Produced by John Kriek for Red Bullet Productions, the album seamlessly captures the raw energy of the band's live performance. With a striking cover illustration by Koos van Oostrom and photography by Paul Gerritsma and Dorine v/d Valk, it became a cultural touchstone, leaving an enduring legacy in the musical landscape of 1977.
Live ( Double LP ) 12" 2LP VinylGolden Earring's 1980 release, "Prisoner Of The Night" (titled "Long Blond Animal" in the USA), epitomizes the dynamic crossroads of rock music in the early '80s. Meticulously produced, it blends the band's mature sound with Robert Jan Stips' unique contributions. From infectious energy to introspective moments, the album remains a sonic masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on Dutch rock history and influencing subsequent generations.
Prisoner Of The Night 12" Vinyl LPThe Golden Earrings' 1967 release, "Winter Harvest," encapsulates the Nederbeat spirit of the late '60s. Recorded during 1965-66, the album, with the 'S' in the band's name, captures the essence of Dutch counterculture and musical experimentation. The LP's production reflects the technical challenges of the era, offering a raw, authentic sound. This timeless gem stands as a testament to the band's evolution and its role in shaping the dynamic cultural landscape of the 1960s.
Winter Harvest Nederbeat 12" Vinyl LP