2 Belgen
| Company type | Music group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 in Ghent, Belgium |
| Founder | Rembert De Smet, Herman Celis |
| Defunct | 1993 |
| Headquarters | Ghent , Belgium |
| Products | Music albums and singles |
2 Belgen was a Belgian new wave group, best known for tracks such as Opération Coup de Poing (1984), Queen of Mine (1985), and especially Lena (1985).
History
The band was established in 1982 in Ghent by vocalist and guitarist Rembert De Smet alongside drummer Herman Celis. Their name, translating to 2 Belgians, highlighted their common nationality. Their initial single included the song Quand Le Film Est Triste with Lena on the flip side. The same year, they launched their debut album titled 2 Belgen. As Lena rose in popularity, it was re-recorded several times, with the 1985 version achieving the greatest chart impact. Their rendition of Alpha Blondy's Brigadier Sabari, renamed Opération Coup de Poing in 1984, together with the song Queen of Mine, also played a significant role in their commercial achievements.
With increasing success, 2 Belgen evolved from a duo into a larger ensemble. After Celis left to join Nacht und Nebel (band), Uli Kraemer took over on drums. The lineup expanded further with Alan Gevaert on bass, Jean-Lou Nowé on guitar, and Koen Brando handling keyboards, thus transforming the act into a full-fledged band.
The group ceased activities in 1993. Founding member Rembert De Smet died in 2017, followed by Herman Celis in 2021.