Leen Jongewaard: A Musical Journey of Awakening and Controversy

Leen Jongewaard, hailed as the enigmatic vocalist behind the iconic Dutch folk song "He, he, word wakker," has embarked on a captivating musical journey fraught with challenges and controversies.

Early Life and Influences:

Born in the quaint town of Lisse, Netherlands, Leen's musical proclivities were evident from an early age. Inspired by the soulful melodies and poignant lyrics of traditional folk and blues, she honed her vocal prowess through years of training and experimentation.

The Rise of "He, he, word wakker":

In the early 1960s, Leen's career took flight with the release of the single "He, he, word wakker." The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics, which tell the tale of a young woman's awakening to the realities of life, resonated deeply with Dutch audiences. The song became an instant classic, propelling Leen to national stardom.

Challenges and Controversies:

However, Leen's success was not without its tribulations. Her outspoken nature and unconventional lyrics often drew criticism from conservative elements of society. In particular, her song "De Zwarte Riek" ("The Black Riek"), which explored themes of prostitution and social injustice, sparked controversy and accusations of immorality.

Discography:

Despite the challenges, Leen continued to release a prolific body of work spanning decades. Her discography includes numerous albums, including:

* "He, he, word wakker" (1962)
* "De Zwarte Riek" (1967)
* "Wie gaat er mee" (1971)
* "Het kan me niet schelen" (1975)
* "Nu" (1980)

Members:

Throughout her career, Leen has collaborated with a talented ensemble of musicians, including:

* Jan de Hont (guitar)
* Cees Berman (bass)
* Hans van der Lubbe (drums)
* Piet Souer (keyboards)

Legacy:

Leen Jongewaard's music continues to inspire and captivate generations of listeners. Her songs are a testament to her talent as a vocalist, songwriter, and fearless artist. Despite the controversies she faced, her legacy as a trailblazing figure in Dutch folk music remains unblemished.