C+B Bluesmuseum Grolloo
The C+B Blues Museum, located in the village of Grolloo next to Rolde, is a special place where the memories of Harry Muskee and his legendary band Cuby & The Blizzards are kept alive. With exhibitions that change regularly, the museum offers an in-depth insight into the history and influence of this iconic blues formation. This article provides an overview of the museum, the band's history, and the significance of this location for both fans and new generations of music lovers.
The museum
The C+B Blues Museum covers an area of 250 square meters and is housed in a complete two-storey house. The museum offers visitors a journey through more than 80 years of music history, with a special focus on the life and work of Harry Muskee and his band. The museum strives to pass on the musical legacy of Cuby & The Blizzards to younger generations through engaging exhibitions and educational initiatives.
History of Cuby & The Blizzards
Cuby & The Blizzards, founded in 1964 in Assen, is one of the most influential blues bands in the Netherlands. The band was formed by singer Harry Muskee and solo guitarist Eelco Gelling, with Hans Kinds on rhythm guitar, Willy Middel on bass and Hans Waterman on drums. Their debut album "Desolation" from 1966 earned them an Edison, while their second album "Groeten uit Grollo" from 1967 is considered a classic in Dutch pop history. This album includes the legendary song "Somebody Will Know Someday".
The meaning for Grolloo
After a period of heartbreak, Harry Muskee retreated to a farm in Grolloo, which ultimately became a crucial place for the band and their music. Grolloo grew into a place of pilgrimage for Dutch performers and artists and gained national fame as a tourist attraction. In the years that followed, Cuby & The Blizzards continued to perform and make music, although the band's line-up changed frequently.
The last years and the revival
Between 1969 and 1972 the band operated in a new composition, with Helmig van der Vegt (piano), Herman Deinum (bass) and Hans la Faille (drums). After the band's breakup in 1972, Muskee tried again under different names, but with limited success. In 1995, Cuby & The Blizzards was revived thanks to initiators such as Johan Derksen and sponsor Henk Aa. Although Eelco Gelling did not return, other former members such as Van der Vegt, La Faille and Deinum found their way back to the band, supplemented by solo guitarist Erwin Java.
The C+B Blues Museum in Grolloo offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Harry Muskee and Cuby & The Blizzards. The museum is not only a tribute to one of the largest blues bands in the Netherlands, but also an educational resource for younger generations. Through changing exhibitions and a wealth of historical objects, the legacy of this iconic band continues to live on and inspire. The museum is a must-see for any music lover interested in the history of Dutch blues.
Entrance
Adults: €7.50
Children up to 12 years: free!
Groups, minimum 10 people: €5 p.p.