"When the Lady Smiles" by Golden Earring

This week has seen the deaths of several celebrities, so many that it is hard for me to keep up with all of them. Michael Jamal Warner, Ozzy Osbourne, Chuck Magione, and Cleo Laine, among others, have all died this week. Among the celebrities who have died this week is one that many of my fellow Americans have probably not heard of, but who is close to my heart nonetheless. George Kooymans was a co-founder and guitarist of legendary Dutch rock band Golden Earring died on July 22 2025 at age 77 from complications from ALS.

I will write a full eulogy later, but tonight I will leave you with one of my favourite Golden Earring songs, "When the Lady Smiles." It was written by George Kooymans and Barry Hay. It went to number one on the charts in the Netherlands and Belgium, and peaked at no. 76 on the Billboard Hot 100. Sadly, in the United States, I think it might be better known for tis controversial video, which was banned by MTV. Since that video can be found offensive, I will simply share the official audio.