Origin: Oude Pekela, Netherlands
Originally inspired by The Beatles , Rolling Stones and Kinks , this western Dutch outfit formed in 1964 as the Popular Pipers Boys Band with original members Harry Rijnbergen (vocals, guitar), Joop Hulzebos (guitar, keyboards), Wiechert Kenter (bass guitar, trumpet, vibraphone) and Berend Groen (drums). Their rather unique sound is mostly credited to their front man and songwriter Rijnbergen, with his unique compositions and nasally voice. In 1966, they changed their name to the Rowdies, but because there were so many other bands around with that moniker, it quickly evolved into RO-D-YS. In t…