They came, they sang and they conquered the hearts of Mumbaites. The Vengabus is coming, and every body's humming. You bet. Not only have the Vengaboys come, hummed and conquered, they've broken every record in India by going nine times platinum way back when they came on the music scene.

The Vengaboys (pronounced 'Bengaboys') have proved their mettle in a mix of heady rhythms, catchy lyrics and some colorful overdressed videos, backed up by equally underdressed performers as seen at the concert.

But the legendary Eurodance group of all time that they are, the Vengaboys delivered a stunning performance at The Courtyard, Phoenix Marketcity, Kurla in Mumbai on the 8^th May 2015, reviving the magic of the 90s. The concert took place in the European themed courtyard of the mall, which has witnessed a variety of blockbuster events The band who visited India way back in 1998 for the first time, belted out their record-breaking hits such as We’re going to Ibiza, Kiss (When the sun don’t shine), Shalalala, My Uncle John from Jamaica, Boom Boom Boom Boom and We like to party and a few cover songs. The Vengaboys as a dance troupe were a powerhouse and enthralled the audience with their impeccable energy.

On the occasion, lead vocalist of Vengaboys, Kim Sasabone said, “We are very glad to perform in India for the very first time at Phoenix Marketcity, Kurla. We are overwhelmed by the stupendous response we have received here. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch so many of our fans. We truly love India and of course the vibrant city of Mumbai.”

Slated to begin at 7.30pm the gig started at 9 pm and winded up one hour later. The 1000 strong crowd truly had a splendid evening, even though many were heard complaining how fast the gig got over. But then how many songs do the Vengaboys really have in their kitty in the first place.

But all that aside, Mumbai partied for an hour to some pulsating grooves made famous almost 16 years ago and which even today is still loved and played at parties. It truly was an unforgettable night.

The Vengaboys will always continue to take the world by storm, just like ABBA once did. The Vengaboys are still music's latest icons. With peppy beats, groovy cuts and provocative videos to boot, And even though they aren't even musicians, judging by their lyrics, even a four year old would put it together in five minutes.

The Vengaboys was the brainchild of two Dutch producers Danski and Delmundo, who formed the band way back in 1996. In late 1996, the band decided to expand and started performing under the name of the Vengaboys. Bearing in mind that Danski and Delmundo could not dance at all, one thing led to another, with four soon being the main performers. As a result, Danski and Delmundo were left to concentrate on the production and Djing, which was their forte. Writing the songs as they still do were part of their job as well.

One thing led to another, and the four some, who were independent artists on a work- for – hire basis, became the face and dancing shoed of these tow DJ's who remain the brains behind all their sound. (They forgot the need for a lyricist in al the excitement! Hence the great economy of words in their songs.)

Today after a few lineup changes in the male singing section, today we have Robin Pors and Donny Latupeirissa, while the female was lead led by vocalists Kim Sasabone and Denise Post-Van Rijswijk and who are the crowd pullers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajendra Kalkar, Senior Center Director said, “It gives us immense pleasure to be the first arena to host the Vengaboys in India. Phoenix Marketcity, Kurla has always been the hub of entertainment, constantly offering exciting experiences to our customers with a world-class shopping experience. With the Vengaboys performing here, this endeavor has only further strengthened.”

A peppy rhythm, attractive melody, a couple of sleazy lyrics thrown in for good measure and videos oozing sensuality work wonders. That’ the Vengaboys.

The band proceeded for concerts to Chennai (9^th May) and Goa (10^th May) before heading back home.

Text and Photos by Verus Ferreira