Shocking Blue: The Song I Love the Most
Introduction
When you think of Shocking Blue, one hit instantly comes to mind—”Venus.” It’s the song that catapulted them to global fame and remains a staple of classic rock playlists. But there’s so much more to this Dutch band than just one iconic track! My personal favourite is “Love Machine,” a song that truly showcases their unique style and musical depth. Let me tell you why this lesser-known tune deserves a spot on your playlist.
Why Shocking Blue Is Known for 'Venus'
Shocking Blue will forever be linked to their 1969 hit, “Venus.” It’s the track that put them on the map, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and becoming a global phenomenon. It’s not surprising that most people, even casual classic rock listeners, associate the band with this song—it’s catchy, iconic, and has a hook that’s hard to forget. Mariska Veres’ striking vocals on “Venus” are unforgettable, bringing a powerful, almost haunting quality that stands out in the 60s rock scene.
“Venus” wasn’t just a success in its time; it became a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists, including Bananarama in the 80s, who gave it a pop makeover. This kind of enduring appeal is rare and speaks volumes about the song’s universal charm. However, this spotlight often overshadows Shocking Blue’s broader discography, leaving incredible tracks like “Love Machine”, and “Never Marry a Railroad Man”, and “Inkpot” in the shadows. As much as I appreciate “Venus,” I believe there’s a deeper layer to explore with their other songs, especially for fans who want to dig beyond the hits.
Discovering the Hidden Gem: 'Love Machine' of Shocking Blue
I first stumbled upon “Love Machine” while exploring Shocking Blue’s discography out of curiosity. It was one of those moments where you expect nothing more than a decent album track, but what I found was pure gold. The upbeat rhythm, the catchy guitar riffs, and Mariska Veres’ dynamic vocals make “Love Machine” a standout piece that deserves far more attention than it gets. It’s one of those songs where you can almost feel the energy of the band pouring out of the speakers.
What struck me the most was how different the vibe is compared to “Venus.” “Love Machine” has this infectious groove, driven by a blend of psychedelic rock elements and a touch of early 70s glam. It’s a song that showcases the versatility of Shocking Blue, proving they were much more than a one-hit wonder. There’s a playful confidence in the way the band delivers this track, which makes it incredibly fun to listen to. If you haven’t heard “Love Machine” yet, you’re missing out on a hidden gem that perfectly captures the essence of 60s rock music.
Musical Breakdown of 'Love Machine'
Let’s get into the musical details of “Love Machine.” Right from the opening guitar riff, the song sets a lively, upbeat tone. The instrumentation is tight and cohesive, featuring a driving bassline that hooks you immediately. The electric guitar work here is sharp, blending a jangly rhythm with psychedelic overtones that give the track its unique edge. It’s the kind of song where the arrangement feels meticulously crafted yet effortlessly cool.
Then there’s Mariska Veres’ vocal performance. Her voice is raw and powerful, with a slight rasp that adds texture to the song. Unlike in “Venus,” where her vocals are almost ethereal, here she sounds grounded, giving a performance full of energy and charisma. It’s as if she’s smiling while singing, bringing a playful tone that matches the lively beat.
Lyrically, “Love Machine” might not be as profound as some of their other tracks, but its simplicity works in its favor. The lyrics are fun and catchy, fitting perfectly with the upbeat nature of the song. The production style is classic Shocking Blue, with a clean, crisp mix that highlights each instrument’s role. It’s a reminder of why this band stood out in the late 60s—solid musicianship and an unmistakable sound.
The Underrated Tracks of Shocking Blue
While “Venus” may have been their biggest hit, there are several Shocking Blue songs that deserve more love. Let’s shine a light on a few other underrated tracks:
“Mighty Joe“: A gritty, bluesy rock number that showcases Mariska Veres’ versatility. It’s got a powerful groove and a catchy chorus that sticks with you.
“Send Me a Postcard“: This track is a great example of the band’s psychedelic rock influences. It’s vibrant and energetic, with a driving beat that makes it impossible not to tap your feet.
“Demon Lover“: A darker, more intense song that explores the band’s heavier side. The haunting vocals and brooding guitar riffs make it a standout in their catalog.
These songs are proof that Shocking Blue had much more to offer beyond “Venus.” They were a talented, multifaceted group that experimented with various sounds and styles, making their music well worth exploring.
Why 'Love Machine' Is My Personal Favorite
So why does “Love Machine” top my list of favorite Shocking Blue songs? It’s simple: it brings me joy. There’s something about the energy of this track that feels so pure and uplifting. Unlike the polished, almost mystical sound of “Venus,” “Love Machine” feels raw and unfiltered. It’s like a snapshot of the band having fun and playing to their strengths.
One of my favorite moments in the song is the guitar solo. It’s not overly flashy, but it’s full of character, blending seamlessly with the rhythm. I also love the way Mariska Veres delivers the vocals—there’s a confidence and playfulness that you don’t always hear in their more popular tracks. It’s the kind of song you want to play on a sunny afternoon, windows down, volume up.
For me, “Love Machine” represents everything I love about classic rock: great musicianship, a catchy melody, and an undeniable sense of fun. It’s a track that never fails to put a smile on my face, and I hope it does the same for you.
Conclusion
Shocking Blue may always be remembered for “Venus,” but they have so much more to offer for those willing to dive deeper into their catalog. “Love Machine” is a true hidden gem that deserves its moment in the spotlight. It’s a song that captures the spirit of the 60s and shows off the band’s unique talent. So, the next time you listen to Shocking Blue, skip past “Venus” and give “Love Machine” a spin—you might just find a new favorite too.
