Henny Vrienten

Dutch musician (1948–2022) Musical artist Henny Vrienten (27 July 1948 – 25 April 2022) was a Dutch musician best known as the singer and bassist of the popular 1980s ska pop band Doe Maar. He also composed music for television and film. Biography Early days Paul Santos, 1977 Vrienten began his career in the late 1960s as a member of the local outfit Les Cruches. In the early 1970s, he wrote songs for others and released his first single as Ruby Carmichael. In 1977, Vrienten released his debut solo album, Paul Santos, which he recorded with US producer Tom Salisbury. "Lift Me Up Higher" was extracted as a single. Also in the 1970s, he began working with singer-songwriter Boudewijn de Groot in the studio and on stage. While recording the 1975 album Waar ik woon en wie ik ben, Vrienten met keyboard player Ernst Jansz and drummer Johnny Lodewijks. The latter suggested they form a reggae band. The Rumbones, led by the vocals of Frenchman Cris Lester, toured from October to November 1977 and split up immediately after. Vrienten moved on to Sammie America's Gasphetti, recorded demos at his garage, and did another tour with De Groot. Doe Maar: 1980–84 Doe Maar, 1982 Farewell concert