Erik and Sanne Reflect on Their ‘Forbidden’ Love: “No One Gave Us a Chance, But After 35 Years, We’re Still Madly in Love”

In the summer of 1990, a song titled “Veel te mooi” (Too Beautiful) captured the hearts of many across Belgium. The catchy melody, paired with heartfelt lyrics about an impossible love, struck a chord with listeners. What no one could have predicted, however, was that the song wasn’t just a work of fiction. It would eventually become a reflection of reality for the song’s creators, Erik Van Neygen and Sanne Denotté.

Now, 35 years later, the couple is still together, and their love story has not only stood the test of time but defied the odds. In an exclusive interview with Primo Magazine, Erik (74) and Sanne (52) opened up about their relationship, the challenges they faced, and how they’ve managed to maintain their love after more than three decades.

A Forbidden Love: The Beginning

When Erik and Sanne first met, no one could have predicted the whirlwind romance that would follow. Their connection was immediate, but they faced a significant obstacle: Erik was already married at the time, and Sanne was in a committed relationship. Their love was not just unexpected; it was also considered “forbidden” by many who believed that their relationship would be a fleeting affair.

But, as fate would have it, “Veel te mooi” became more than just a hit song. It became their personal anthem, symbolizing the very love they were trying to hold on to despite societal pressures and personal complications. As Erik recalls, “At first, no one gave us a chance. People thought it was just a fleeting moment. But here we are, 35 years later, still madly in love.”

From Song to Reality

The success of “Veel te mooi” mirrored the growing relationship between Erik and Sanne. The song, which tells the story of an impossible romance, became an unexpected hit, topping the charts and making waves across Belgium. The public loved the song, but few knew the personal connection Erik and Sanne had to the lyrics.

At the time, Erik was a well-known artist, and Sanne, who was also involved in music, was no stranger to the entertainment industry. However, their relationship was private—until the chemistry between them became undeniable. As Sanne explains, “It was a slow burn. We started collaborating on the song, and before we knew it, our connection went beyond the studio. It wasn’t just music—it was real.”

Despite their undeniable attraction, the couple kept their relationship under wraps, as they both had commitments and responsibilities that made their love seem impossible. But as time passed, they both realized that they couldn’t deny their feelings.

Overcoming the Odds

Despite the growing love between them, the road was not easy. Society’s judgments, Erik’s marriage, and the constant scrutiny from the public made their relationship feel like a forbidden love affair. Many close to them doubted that their relationship would last. As Erik puts it, “People told us it would never work. They said it was just a moment of passion, that we’d burn out. But we proved them wrong.”

The couple faced harsh criticism, especially from those who believed their personal lives should remain separate from their professional careers. Sanne recalls the judgment: “People weren’t just skeptical; they were outright hostile. We had to navigate not just our love for each other but also the pressures of maintaining privacy in an incredibly public world.”

But through it all, Erik and Sanne remained steadfast. They supported each other through difficult moments, including Erik’s eventual divorce, and together they built a life.

Defying Expectations

Thirty-five years later, their love story has endured the test of time, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected relationships can thrive despite the odds. “It wasn’t easy,” Sanne admits. “We went through tough times, both personally and as a couple, but we always came out stronger. Our bond has only deepened over the years.”

Their relationship, which began as a “forbidden” love, has become an inspiration to others. The pair, who still regularly collaborate on music projects, have shown that love isn’t always about following the rules or doing what others expect—it’s about finding someone who makes you feel complete.

Today, Erik and Sanne are still creating music together, and their relationship continues to flourish. The two remain as passionate about their work and each other as they were when they first recorded “Veel te mooi”. They have no regrets about their journey, despite the ups and downs.

Reflections on 35 Years Together

Looking back at their long-lasting relationship, both Erik and Sanne agree that their secret to success is not just love, but respect and mutual understanding. “We have always supported each other,” Erik says. “When one of us was down, the other lifted them up. That’s what true love is—being there for each other through thick and thin.”

For Sanne, the key has been their shared passion for music. “Music has always been our bond. It’s what brought us together, and it continues to be the foundation of our relationship. When things get tough, we create something beautiful together, and that reminds us why we’re here.”

Their love story also highlights the importance of staying true to oneself. “We never let the opinions of others dictate our relationship,” says Erik. “At the end of the day, it’s about what makes us happy.”

A Timeless Love

As they celebrate 35 years together, Erik and Sanne’s story is a testament to the power of love and perseverance. Despite the challenges, doubts, and obstacles they faced, they have proven that love is not bound by time or external expectations. Their journey, from the release of “Veel te mooi” to their enduring relationship today, serves as a reminder that true love often finds a way, no matter how impossible it may seem at first.

In their interview with Primo, Erik and Sanne’s message is clear: “We’ve been through so much, but we’re still here, still in love, and still living our dream together. No one gave us a chance, but we’ve shown that we belong together. Love is a beautiful thing, no matter the odds.”