Famous Dutch Guitarists

Martyn LeNoble is a talented Dutch bassist known for his work with alternative rock band Porno for Pyros. He began his music career in a Dutch punk rock band before moving to Los Angeles in 1989. LeNoble has collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Jane's Addiction, the Cult, and Dave Gahan. His contributions to the music industry extend to recording, touring, and performing with various acclaimed musicians. LeNoble's versatility and skill have solidified his reputation as a respected bassist in the music scene.

Jan Akkerman is a renowned Dutch guitarist known for his work with the band Focus, which gained international success. Co-founding the band with Thijs van Leer, he contributed to their distinctive sound. Upon leaving Focus, Akkerman pursued a solo career, showcasing his versatility by incorporating jazz fusion elements into his music. He has established himself as a skilled and innovative musician, gaining recognition for his technical proficiency and creative approach to guitar playing.

Adrian Vandenberg is a prominent Dutch rock guitarist known for his work with Whitesnake and his own band, Vandenberg. He gained fame during Whitesnake's successful late 1980s era and later formed Vandenberg in 1981. In 2013, he established Vandenberg's MoonKings, releasing a new album in 2014. Throughout his career, Vandenberg has showcased his exceptional guitar skills, contributing to the success of multiple bands and projects, solidifying his reputation as a talented and influential figure in the rock music scene.

Robbie van Leeuwen is a prominent Dutch musician known for his roles as a guitarist, sitarist, background vocalist, and main songwriter in various Dutch bands, most notably The Motions and Shocking Blue. He gained international fame for his work with Shocking Blue, particularly for the hit song "Venus". Throughout his career, van Leeuwen showcased his musical versatility by playing guitar on other artists' releases. As of January 2023, he remains the sole surviving member of Shocking Blue's well-known four-piece lineup.

George Kooymans is a renowned Dutch guitarist and vocalist known for his significant contributions to the success of the iconic Dutch group Golden Earring. His musical legacy includes writing the hit song "Twilight Zone," which achieved great success on the US Billboard Hot 100 charts. Throughout his career, Kooymans played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and achieving international recognition. Despite facing health challenges later in his career, his impact on the music industry and fans worldwide remains undeniable.

Robert Westerholt is a Dutch musician and guitarist known for co-founding the symphonic metal band Within Temptation. He is the main songwriter for the band, which is fronted by vocalist Sharon den Adel. Westerholt transitioned from a career in human resource management to pursue his passion for music with Within Temptation. His musical contributions have been integral to the band's success, with his distinctive guitar work and songwriting helping to shape their unique sound and captivate audiences worldwide.

Arjen Anthony Lucassen is a Dutch singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist musician, and record producer best known for his progressive metal/rock opera project Ayreon. Starting his career in the 1980s with bands like Bodine and Vengeance, he later ventured into a more progressive direction with a solo album. His uncredited album Ayreon: The Final Experiment in 1995 marked the beginning of the successful Ayreon project, leading to multiple other musical endeavors. Lucassen's diverse musical talents and innovative compositions have earned him praise and recognition in the rock and metal music scene.

Patrick Mameli is a Dutch musician known for founding and leading the technical death metal band Pestilence. As the creative force behind the band, he is the primary songwriter and has remained the only original member. Pestilence disbanded in 1994 but reunited in 2008, releasing three more albums. Mameli also formed the groove metal supergroup C-187 and created bands Moordzucht and Neuromorph. He continues to tour with Pestilence, even though there are no original members in the current lineup.

Danny Vera, known professionally by his stage name, is a Dutch singer-songwriter and musician. He has gained recognition for his soulful vocals and versatile musical style that encompasses genres like rock, country, and blues. Vera has released several successful albums and singles, earning critical acclaim for his songwriting abilities and powerful live performances. He has also made appearances on various television shows and music festivals, solidifying his reputation as a talented and respected artist in the Dutch music scene.

Herman Brood was a versatile Dutch artist known for his success as a musician, painter, actor, and poet. He rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s as a rock 'n' roll star, achieving both artistic and commercial success in the music industry. Brood was celebrated for his hedonistic lifestyle and rebellious persona, earning a reputation as an enfant terrible. Later in his career, he transitioned to become a successful painter. His tragic suicide further solidified his controversial status in Dutch popular culture.

Timo Somers is a Dutch guitarist known for his work with the symphonic metal band Delain and Vengeance. With a versatile style and virtuosic skills, Somers has established himself as a prominent figure in the metal music scene. He is recognized for his dynamic performances, intricate guitar solos, and creative contributions to the bands' compositions. Somers' dedication to his craft and his ability to blend technical prowess with emotive playing have earned him a respected reputation among fans and fellow musicians alike.

Mark Jansen is a Dutch guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter who has made significant contributions to the symphonic metal subgenre. He is recognized for his work with the bands After Forever and Epica, as well as his involvement in the band MaYaN. Jansen has showcased his versatile skills by performing growled vocals in both After Forever and Epica, adding a unique dynamic to the bands' sound. His professional career has been marked by his dedication to creating powerful music and captivating audiences with his performances.

Sanne Hans is a talented Dutch singer-songwriter and skilled guitar player. She began her music career as a member of Ysis before transitioning to form her own band, Miss Montreal, in 2008. Throughout her professional life, Sanne has showcased her musical versatility and passion for creating captivating melodies. With her distinctive voice and emotive songwriting, she has gained recognition both in the Netherlands and internationally, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the music industry.