Rita Hovink, born Hendriekje Jannie Vink on March 3, 1944, in Beverwijk,
Netherlands, was a Dutch singer known for her dramatic timbre. She transitioned
to singing after winning a talent show hosted by Max van Praag in 1959. Her
first singles were released in 1964. Hovink's debut album Love Me or Leave Me
(1969) was followed by her second jazz album, From Rita With Love (1973). Her
breakthrough came with the single "Ay Dolores" (1976) and the hit song "Laat me
alleen" (1976). Despite chart successes, Hovink's attempt to represent the
Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest in ...