Radar Love

Zoo Freaks, get ready to cruise with the Zoo Crew as we spin the iconic Radar Love by Golden Earring from their 1973 album Moontan! This track is the ultimate driving anthem, written from the perspective of a driver who feels a psychic connection with his lover, urging him to speed through the night to be with her. The song’s infectious energy comes from its killer guitar riff, pulsing bass, and that unforgettable drum solo, making it a staple on classic rock radio. Fun fact: Radar Love has been covered over 500 times by artists like U2, R.E.M., and Def Leppard, cementing its status as a rock classic. In a YouTube interview, singer Barry Hay shared that the song’s vibe was inspired by the band’s love for the open road, capturing the thrill of late-night drives. The track’s global success, hitting #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 in the Netherlands, Spain, and Rhodesia, marked a pivotal moment for the band, especially during their 1974 U.S. tour where they shared stages with legends like The Who and Aerosmith.

Another cool tidbit comes from a 2019 blog post on Bang The Drum, where a fan recalls seeing Radar Love performed live in 1974 at The Rainbow in London. The writer describes the band’s swagger and the drummer leaping over his kit at the song’s climax, a moment that electrified the crowd. The song’s lyrics, like “I’ve been drivin’ all night, my hand’s wet on the wheel,” paint a vivid story that resonates with anyone who’s felt the pull of the road. Its inclusion in countless “best driving songs” lists, as noted in a 2023 Louder article, highlights its timeless appeal. The Moontan album itself, with its progressive and psychedelic vibes, was a bold departure for the band, earning it a spot at #32 on Q & Mojo’s “40 Cosmic Rock Albums” list.

Golden Earring started as a group of neighborhood kids in The Hague, Netherlands, in 1961. Originally called The Tornadoes, they changed their name to The Golden Earrings (dropping the “s” in 1969) and began playing pop-rock covers before crafting their own sound. Founded by guitarist George Kooymans and bassist Rinus Gerritsen, the band’s early years were marked by local gigs and a debut single in 1965. Their big break came with Radar Love and Moontan, which showcased their ability to blend hard rock with progressive elements. The classic lineup, solidified in 1970 with vocalist Barry Hay and drummer Cesar Zuiderwijk, toured relentlessly, including ten North American tours in the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. Their 60-year career, ending in 2021, made them the longest-surviving rock band, with 47 chart hits in the Netherlands and global fame from tracks like Twilight Zone in 1982.

Connect with Golden Earring through their official website for the latest on their legacy, including remastered releases like the 2021 expanded Moontan edition. Check out their Facebook page dedicated to Radar Love and Moontan, where fans share memories and trivia, like debates about the mysterious woman on the album cover. While the band’s official Instagram hasn’t been active recently, it’s a great spot for throwback photos. On X, fans and accounts like @Jac504 keep the love alive, posting about the band’s history. Join fellow Zoo Freaks at fan sites like Discogs for detailed discographies or the Golden Earring Fan Club on Facebook to swap stories and celebrate this Dutch rock legend!