George Kooymans, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of the Dutch rock band Golden Earring, passed away on July 23, 2025, at the age of 77.
His family and bandmates confirmed that he succumbed to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease he had been battling since his diagnosis in 2020. The news marks the end of an era for fans of the band, best known for their timeless hits “Radar Love” and “Twilight Zone.”
Kooymans, born in The Hague, Netherlands, formed Golden Earring in 1961 alongside bassist Rinus Gerritsen. The band, initially named the Tornados, evolved into a powerhouse of rock, achieving international fame with their 1973 anthem “Radar Love,” a staple of classic rock radio, and the 1982 MTV favorite “Twilight Zone.” Kooymans’ distinctive guitar work and songwriting, often in collaboration with bandmate Barry Hay, defined the band’s sound and earned them a devoted following over their five-decade career.
In a statement, Kooymans’ family described him as “a great musician and composer whose work extended beyond Golden Earring. George was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, but above all, a friend.” Drummer Cesar Zuiderwijk, who played alongside Kooymans for 50 years, reflected, “That was the best time of my life.” The band retired in 2021 following Kooymans’ diagnosis, choosing not to replace him, a testament to their brotherhood.
Golden Earring’s influence reached far beyond their native Netherlands, with “Radar Love” covered by artists like U2 and R.E.M. and featured in films such as Baby Driver. The band’s legacy includes over 25 studio albums and a commemorative Dutch postal stamp in 2011. A farewell concert planned for January 2026 in Rotterdam, with proceeds supporting ALS research, will honor Kooymans’ contributions.
