About the song
“Venus,” a captivating rock anthem by Dutch band Shocking Blue, first burst onto the music scene in the summer of 1969. Written by the band’s talented guitarist, sitarist, and background vocalist Robbie van Leeuwen, the song quickly gained global acclaim, topping the charts in nine countries and solidifying its place in music history. Its blend of catchy melodies and distinctive rock influences has made “Venus” a timeless classic, resonating with audiences across generations.
The composition of “Venus” draws from a rich tapestry of musical influences. Van Leeuwen crafted new lyrics for the song, drawing inspiration from “The Banjo Song” by Tim Rose and the Big 3, which itself was a lyrical adaptation of the 19th-century tune “Oh! Susanna” by Stephen Foster. This creative process resulted in a unique blend of classic and contemporary sounds, complemented by a memorable guitar riff reminiscent of The Who’s “Pinball Wizard.” The song’s infectious rhythm and memorable hook are a testament to Shocking Blue’s innovative approach to rock music.
Recorded at Soundpush Studio in Blaricum, Netherlands, “Venus” was produced by Van Leeuwen himself on a two-track machine, showcasing the raw, dynamic energy of the band’s performance. The original recording featured the striking lead vocals of Mariska Veres, whose powerful voice brought the song’s lyrics to life. Interestingly, a minor typo in the line “A goddess on a mountain top”—where “goddess” was mistakenly sung as “godness”—has become a charming anecdote in the song’s history, reflecting Veres’ early struggles with English.
The song’s enduring appeal is underscored by its numerous covers and adaptations. Notably, in 1986, English girl group Bananarama revitalized “Venus” with their own rendition, which became a massive hit, reaching number one in six countries. The song’s influence extends beyond music, having been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Overall, “Venus” remains a quintessential example of how a well-crafted song can cross cultural and temporal boundaries, maintaining its relevance and charm long after its initial release.
Video
Lyrics
A goddess on a mountain top
Was burning like a silver flame
The summit of beauty and love
And Venus was her name
She’s got it
Yeah, baby, she’s got it
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire
Her weapons were her crystal eyes
Making every man mad
Black as the dark night she was
Got what no one else had, whoa!
She’s got it
Yeah, baby, she’s got it
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire
She’s got it
Yeah, baby, she’s got it
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire
Well, I’m your Venus
I’m your fire, at your desire