What is typically German? If you consider this question, answers such as ‘Oktoberfest’, ‘beer’, ‘over-punctuality’ and ‘quality cars’ are likely to come to mind. Of course, as with every other country in the world, there are numerous stereotypes about Germany. But Germany is so much more than pigeonholed clichés. Our nation’s reputation as the home of writers and thinkers is not without a reason. What Goethe and Schiller once exemplified is becoming an ever stronger upward trend in the musical field. We’re talking about the constantly evolving, highly respected, diverse and talented singer-songwriters. But this is not the only area that is booming. The German music scene is now more diverse than ever before. And in the midst of this colourful landscape are 5 exceptional talents who deserve a closer look.

A feather-light voice that is both powerful and incredibly expressive. Lyrics that delve deeply into one’s emotions and songs that are so radically honest and authentic that one feels captivated by and profoundly connected to them. That is the trademark of singer-songwriter LEA. With Lea, we are kicking off with a musician who is bursting with creativity. She’s a real poet who demonstrates that German-speaking music is also appealing to the younger generation. The 32-year-old Berliner-by-choice began her career, like so many others today, on YouTube. She quickly gained numerous admirers and has now established herself as a permanent name on the German music market. As a regular chart-topper, she is therefore often a guest on various television programmes, such as the popular German format ‘Sing meinen Song — das Tauschkonzert’. The TV show, which is particularly dedicated to German singer-songwriters, regularly provides unforgettable goosebump moments and confirms a trend in the German music scene. Songs in German are conquering the radios, unagitated arrangements, far removed from over-produced beats, wild stage choreography, and autotune. LEA is the best example of this. Dubbed the ‘most emotional voice’ in Germany by fellow musicians, the artist uses her music to deal with topics such as the pain of separation, self-doubt, and her experiences in an almost therapeutic way. Her new album Von der Schönheit und Zerbrechlichkeit der Dinge was released at the beginning of October, taking listeners on a poetic journey in which beauty and pain are closely intertwined.

The singer, rapper, songwriter, and producer Clueso is another major figure in the German music industry. His musical origins can be found in the hip hop scene. However, the likeable artist is best known for his versatile musical style, which combines elements of pop, rock, hip hop and reggae. It is particularly remarkable that Clueso has constantly rediscovered and developed himself throughout his career, refining his style while always remaining true to himself. Like LEA, Clueso was also part of the hit programme ‘Sing meinen Song – das Tauschkonzert’, in which a star takes centre stage every evening and their most successful songs are completely reinterpreted by the other artists. Particularly honest lyrics and catchy melodies have helped Clueso gain a large fan base and recognition in the music market, and he has already worked with numerous major artists such as the Fantastischen Vier and German legend Udo Lindenberg. The joint song ‘Cello’ is one of the artist’s most successful pieces. In addition to an immense social commitment, a wide range of released studio albums and numerous gold and platinum awards, Clueso is now one of the biggest musicians in the country. The musician has successfully captivated fans for several decades, owing to his exceptional sense of rhythm, ability to consistently discover himself and everyday topics that concern us all, encapsulated in poetically beautiful yet clear and concise lyrics, coupled with catchy melodies and a certain touch of charm and coolness. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for him. 

The indie pop duo BRUCKNER demonstrates the rich and varied musical landscape of Germany. As children of a music teacher, brothers Jakob and Matti were exposed to music from an early age. After Jakob’s successful participation in a music competition, the siblings performed their first gigs together in 2013 as the support act for various German artists such as Mark Forster and Max Giesinger. The first EP Berg was finally released in 2017. This was followed by appearances at the Reeperbahn Festival, among others, and ultimately, a recording deal with Sony Music. The duo realised early on that they wanted to make music for their generation. Contrary to the aforementioned trend of the German singer-songwriter scene, which often favours soft and soulful sounds, the brothers wanted to provide a good time with their music and performances. Although the lyrics are no less profound and emotional, the soundscape is light, carefree, and euphoric. 

Like so many musicians, the coronavirus pandemic has also left its mark on the duo. Having released their debut album in 2020, the siblings processed the disruption, uncertainty and complex emotions and impressions of the past few years in their sophomore record, released in 2023. The work thus symbolises an entire generation that is questioning and every so often a little lost, searching for the true core of its work, and is always on a journey of discovery. In terms of sound, this is also reflected in the album’s broad pot-pourri. The brothers’ recipe for success is their authenticity and their ability to create a unique bond with their fans. They are likeable, speak for a generation, you can easily connect with them and the topics. They are also socially committed. In addition to the promising new releases this year, the brothers are captivating audiences on their current ‘less alone tour’ and building anticipation for future endeavours.

For many, the next band is no longer an unknown phenomenon. Sold-out tours and international recognition: Giant Rooks have achieved what many dream of. After all, only a few German musicians manage an international breakthrough. The quintet, who hail from a medium-sized town in north-west Germany, have been on the road with international superstar Louis Tomlinson as well as their own sold-out tour.

But back to the start: founded in 2014 as a youth band, the 5 members played music in dad’s basement. Their first musical steps were more akin to punk rock, lyrics were more like mere scraps of words – they tried things out.  All band members are involved in the creation process of the works, inspired by personal experiences, film, and literature, as well as musical role models such as Bon Iver, Giant Rooks formed their own sound over time: so-called art-pop as a counter-programme to the sometimes overused term indie.

Giant Rooks is a band that, unlike so many German counterparts, sounds incredibly international. The conscious decision to use English lyrics may also play a part in this. They are abstract lyrics that leave room for interpretation and yet have an impressive visual poetry. What they all have in common: strong messages. They become the voice of their generation. After the release of the first EPs, the debut album followed in 2020. The anthemed sound is a huge success, and the band’s fame increases. This year’s follow-up is even more mature. Songs like ‘Pink Skies’ or ‘Somebody Like You’ offer instant hit potential. They are a band that lives for their live performances. With energy and lightness, and a high level of audience involvement, the band, which is still quite young in terms of age, already looks like old professionals in the music business and therefore has a dazzling future ahead of it.

Finally, to complete the range, we focus on Letters Sent Home. The band from northern Germany combines modern alt-rock with elements of alt-pop, post-hardcore, pop-punk, and emo, a genre that tends to be underrepresented in German-speaking countries. However, the quartet already attracted international attention with their debut album Forever Undone. They are inspired by their own experiences and the desire to express themselves emotionally and artistically. The musically dark soundscapes are dominant, but are accompanied by concise hooks and electronic sounds. The result is an exciting and refreshing mix for the German music market. In terms of substance, the band abstractly tackles the issue of mental well-being, thereby addressing an issue that has become more pressing than ever before. The band wants to stand on its own, but at the same time occupy a unique place among many other like-minded bands of the same musical spectrum, from which they stand out through differences and similarities. To summarise, Letters Sent Home combines personal, honest and profound lyrics with heavy instrumental sounds, poppy vocal melodies, catchy hooks and a touch of electro-dance. It remains to be seen what the future holds for this promising band.