Oktoberfest Songs 3 - The Songs You Already Know

In the first two posts, we learned some of the most popular Oktoberfest songs and dance moves.

First, the more recent Wies’n hits

Second, the older Traditional and Classic songs

Today, we’ll feature the other songs you’ll hear often, but should already know. 

Sorry to break the stereotypes, but you probably will not hear any Hasselhoff songs at Oktoberfest.  However, as anything that gets the crowd singing or dancing or swaying is fair game, you will hear quite a few popular American songs or covers of them.   

Here we’ll just give you the video and a link to the lyrics in case you need them, rather than taking up space with all the lyrics. 

Speaking of stereotypes….we’ll go straight to the #1 Oktoberfest song you already know 

Country Roads:

I don’t know what it is about this song, but it’s everywhere. My theory is that part of the passport application process for Germans is a test to see if they know the words.  Per capita, there probably are more Germans who know the words than Americans.  There’s even a bar in Bangkok called Country Roads, and they will definitely play it for you.

If you stay long enough in a tent or party where trachten is worn, you WILL hear Country Roads, and everyone WILL sing along.  If you don’t know them already, learn the words.  You’ll thank us later – and you’ll have a ready karaoke song next time you need to come up with one in Asia.   

The lyrics page just further supports my theory – they have an option on the left for 11 additional languages! 

The Ketchup Song & The Macarena:

Strangely, The Ketchup Song (actually titled Aserejé) seems to be more popular than the Macarena, though you probably will hear both. Apparently Aserejé swept Europe as a huge hit but didn’t quite capture the same success in the US. Here are the videos, to refresh you on the dance moves.  

You think I’m joking, but I’m not…we heard both at Pappasito’s a few weeks ago…

I’ve shown the Spanglish version that’s most popular, but you can also check out the full Spanish version (lyrics shown here and video here ) 

You may want to check out the lyrics, but definitely learn the dance moves.

And the Macarena (lyrics)

Walking on Sunshine:

Katrina and the Waves’ 1983 hit is a huge hit and really gets the crowd dancing on the benches. (Lyrics)

Hey Baby:

While most Americans will think of Dirty Dancing when they hear this one, it’s really DJ Ötzi's version that has driven the resurgence of this song.  If you’re a Rockies fan, you’ll hear this version during the 7^th inning stretch.

While almost EVERYONE seems to have covered this song (including The Chipmunks), I think the Dirty Dancing and this version are the most popular. This one is similar to the original, but with the “ooohh, aahhh!” lyric added.

99 Luftballons:

While this one is a German song, it’s a big enough international hit that everyone will recognize it.  You’ll likely hear the German version, so we’ll show the lyrics and translation here.  Since Nena released a separate English version, the English song 99 Red Balloons isn’t really a translation from the German – it’s a different song, with the same spirit and tune.  

99 Luftballons Hast du etwas Zeit für mich Dann singe ich ein Lied für dich Von 99 Luftballons Auf ihrem Weg zum Horizont Denkst du vielleicht g'rad an mich Dann singe ich ein Lied für dich Von 99 Luftballons Und dass so was von so was kommt 99 Luftballons Auf ihrem Weg zum Horizont Hielt man für Ufos aus dem All Darum schickte ein General 'ne Fliegerstaffel hinterher Alarm zu geben, wenn es so wär Dabei war'n da am Horizont Nur 99 Luftballons 99 Düsenjäger Jeder war ein großer Krieger Hielten sich für Captain Kirk Das gab ein großes Feuerwerk Die Nachbarn haben nichts gerafft Und fühlten sich gleich angemacht Dabei schoss man am Horizont Auf 99 Luftballons 99 Kriegsminister - Streichholz und Benzinkanister - Hielten sich für schlaue Leute Witterten schon fette Beute Riefen Krieg und wollten Macht Mann, wer hätte das gedacht Dass es einmal soweit kommt Wegen 99 Luftballons 99 Jahre Krieg Ließen keinen Platz für Sieger Kriegsminister gibt's nicht mehr Und auch keine Düsenflieger Heute zieh' ich meine Runden Seh' die Welt in Trümmern liegen Hab' 'nen Luftballon gefunden Denk' an dich und lass' ihn fliegen

99 Baloons (translation) If you have some time for me, then I'll sing a song for you About 99 balloons On their way to the horizon. If you're maybe thinking about me now then I'll sing a song for you About 99 balloons and what comes from such a thing. 99 balloons on their way to the horizon People think they're UFO's so a general sent up a fighter squadron after them Sound the alarm if were so but there on the horizon were only 99 balloons. 99 fighter jets Each one's a great warrior Thinks himself a Captain Kirk then came a great firework the neighbors didn't understand and felt provoked so they shot at the horizon at 99 balloons. 99 War Ministers - matches and gasoline cans They thought they were clever people already smelled a nice bounty Called for war and wanted power. Man, who would've thought that things would someday go so far because of 99 balloons. 99 years of war left no room for victors. There are no more War Ministers nor any jet fighters. Today I'm making my rounds see the world lying in ruins. I found a balloon, thought of you and let it fly away.

For the English Version:

99 Red Balloons (English Version):

You and I in a little toy shop

Buy a bag of balloons with the money we've got

Set them free at the break of dawn

Til one by one, they were gone

Back at base bugs in the software

Flash the message, something's out there

Floating in the summer sky

99 red balloons go by

99 red balloons

Floating in the summer sky

Panic bells - it's red alert

There's something here from somewhere else

The war machine springs to life

Opens up one eager eye

Focusing it on the sky as 99 red balloons go by

99 Decision street

99 ministers meet

To worry, worry, super flurry

Call the troops out in a hurry

This is what we've waited for

This is it boys, this is war

The president is on the line

As 99 red balloons go by

99 knights of the air

Ride super high tech jet fighters

Everyone's a super hero

Everyone's a Captain Kirk

With orders to identify

To clarify, and classify

Scramble in the summer sky

99 red balloons go by

99 dreams I have had

In every one a red balloon

It's all over and I'm standing pretty

In this dust that was a city

If I could find a souvenir

Just to prove the world was here

And here is a red balloon

I think of you, and let it go

Summer of ’69:

Staying in 80s classics but moving back to North America, we have Bryan Adams’ 1985 anthem. (Lyrics)

New York, New York:

Moving backwards in the classics department, we get to Sinatra. Between its status as a classic and New York’s status in the German vacation preferences, everyone loves this one.

I doubt anyone needs the lyrics, but just in case…

Sweet Home Alabama:

And 4 or 5 years back further, we have Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Sweet Home Alabama.  I was shocked the first 5 times I heard this played in Germany – at Oktoberfest, a fair, a fireworks competition, and the Women’s World Cup downhill – and then I realized how popular it is here.

Kid Rock’s All Summer Long that samples Sweet Home Alabama is also popular among the younger crowd.

Lyrics for the original, and for Kid Rock’s version.

Not the original, but a 2003 concert version:

And Kid Rock’s All Summer Long:

Or if you prefer, Kid Rock and Lynyrd Skynyrd performing together, on some awards show.

Mambo No. 5:

Changing pace back to songs that we all love to hate (but secretly love), we have Lou Bega’s 19 hit.  In Germany’s defense, he is German…and spent his early years (until 15) in Munich. So, I guess this is appropriate for Oktoberfest after all.  (Lyrics)

Sweet Caroline:

Thank you, Niel, this is a great one for the crowds! (Lyrics)

If you haven’t had enough DJ Ötzi yet, he released a cover a few years ago. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RacmAUst7g0&feature=related

La Bamba:

Another oldie and another one with a little Latin influence (in this case, a LOT!)…

There are quite a few versions out there, but here are Los Lonely Boys and Carlos Santana at the 2004 Latin Grammy Awards.

The Spanish lyrics are available here.

Off on a tangent…Berlitz did a cute commercial using this song to show misunderstandings.

Que Sera Sera:

Another of the oft-covered classics, Dutch group Hermes House Band’s version has become quite popular.  The lyrics are the same, just remixed and faster. 

Hermes House Band - Que Sera Sera: Video Vidéo MoeAva sélectionnée dans Musique

  

YMCA:

Since the crowds love Fliegerlied and The Ketchup Song, it should be no surprise that YMCA is a popular Oktoberfest song.

I don’t think anyone really needs a refresher to the words or the song, but here’s the original video, which may be something most of us have never actually seen.

Is this the way to Amarillo:

For our final “oldie” on the list, we have Tony Christie’s 1971 hit. I hadn’t heard this one before moving to Germany.  Apparently it was a huge hit in the UK and continental Europe, especially Germany, where it topped the charts, but never was very popular in the US.  I’m not surprised about its success in Germany….it’s schlager and has a nice “lalalalalalala” chorus for the audience to sing.

The song has been remade several times and somehow has become a popular football chant in some UK and German stadiums.  A parody by British soldiers in Iraq in 2005 was so popular it crashed the Ministry of Defense servers! (see the video here)

So, maybe we should file it under “most popular American song that no Americans know” or something other than “songs you should know.”  The lyrics are simple.

Angels:

Like Country Roads, Robbie Williams’ ballad hit big in Europe and SE Asia. Another good option to learn for your karaoke songs.

It’s My Life:

And we’ll end the list with one of my favorites, by Bon Jovi.  Catchy, energetic tune and the lyrics are well-suited to a crowd that wants to sing and scream.  

So now you’ll know a large percentage of the songs most commonly played at Oktoberfest.  If you really want to get the full singing experience, you should go in the evenings when the bands are playing more and the crowds are more energetic.  Herr J and I highly recommend the Kaiserschmarm Tent, which is a little smaller and intimate (it’s wine, prosecco, and cocktails, not beer) and has a great band playing songs everyone loves.  Wherever there’s an opportunity for props and costumes (YMCA, for example), they’ll take it.

And after Oktoberfest? If you want to keep singing? Many locals go to the après Wies’n parties at local clubs.  MünchenBlogger has a list of some common spots. Löwenbräukeller and Park Café are always popular hot spots, as are the usual clubs like P1 and 089. Or keep your eyes out around town for posters showing “Après Wies’n” parties.

Let us know your favourite Oktoberfest songs, and if we’ve missed any.

Oktoberfest Songs 2 - Traditional and Classic

Now that you’ve learned the moves to Fliegerlied and Cowboy und Indianer in our Wies’n Hits guide, it’s time to learn a few of the older songs.  Most are in this category due to age (i.e., before the 90s), though a few are here due to being traditional beer festival songs. While this section includes a wide range of genres, it will definitely add to your schlager repertoire! 

Ein Prosit:

If you learn to recognize only one song, make sure that it’s “Ein Prosit.” You probably will hear it every 15 minutes.  The procedure is this:  The band starts up the song, and everyone raises their glassed, sings along, and toasts each other at the song’s end with a big “Prost!” or “Zum Wohl!,” of course making sure make eye contact when you toast. (this is important in Germany!)

The words are simple:

Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der Gemütlichkeit
Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der Gemütlichkeit.

Oans, zwoa, drei, g'suffa! 

As “ein Prosit” means “a toast”, it’’s just a song about toasting each other. “A toast, a toast, to the comfort of everyone.” And at the end in Bavarian, “One, two, three, drink up!”

Wahnsinn (Hölle, Hölle, Hölle):

I confess, I have this on my workout mix.  It’s a prime example of an Ohrwurm (“ear worm”), a song that wriggles in through your ears and just won’t go away!

It’s basically an early Alannis Morrisette angry breakup song, but sung by a German dude (Wolfgang Petry).  The catchy tune and refrains for crowd participation make it a Wies’n Hit, albeit a classic.  

I chose a video of a faster version of the song by the Lollies, but the original video is worth a look once the song gets stuck in your head – let’s just say that it contains everything wonderfully cheesy about the 80s and is set in a steelmill...permed hair, molten steel, cheesy camera angles…

The crowd response is bracketed and in italics:

Wahnsinn (Hölle, Hölle, Hölle!) Von Dir keine Spur, die Wohnung ist leer und mein Herz wie Blei so schwer, ich geh kaputt, denn Du bist wieder bei ihm. Ich weiss nur eins: jetzt ist Schluss und dass ich um dich kämpfen muss. Wo bist Du? Sag mir wo bist Du? [Chorus] Wahnsinn, warum schickst Du mich in die Hölle? [Hölle, Hölle, Hölle!] Eiskalt lässt Du meine Seele erfriern. Das ist Wahnsinn, Du spielst mit meinen Gefühlen. [Fühle, Fühle!] Und mein Stolz liegt längst schon auf dem Müll. [Müll, Sondermüll!] Doch noch weiss ich was ich will: ich will Dich. [Ganz allein!] Ich lauf im Kreis von früh bis spät, denn ich weiss, dass ohne Dich nichts geht. Ich brauche Luft bevor mein Herz erstickt. Und wie ein Wolf renn ich durch die Stadt, Such hungrig unsere Kneipen ab. Wo bist Du? Sag mir wo bist Du? [Chorus] Doch noch weiss ich was ich will: ich will Dich. [Ganz allein!] [Chorus]

Madness (Hell, Hell, Hell!) No trace of you, the apartment is empty and my heart is heavy as lead, I’m destroyed, because you're back with him. I only just one thing: now it's over and I must fight for you. Where are you? Tell me where are you? [Chorus] Madness, why do send me to hell? [Hell, hell, hell!] Ice-cold, you freeze my soul. This madness, you play with my feelings. [Feelings, Feelings, Feelings!] And my pride is long since thrown in the trash. [Trash, hazardous waste!] But still I know what I want: I want you. [All alone!] I run in circles all day long, because I know that without you, nothing goes. I need air before my heart chokes. And I run like a wolf through the city, Searching hungrily in our pubs. Where are you? Tell me where are you? [Chorus] But still I know what I want: I want you. [All alone!] [Chorus]

Sierra Madre:

This is another one where most people just know the chorus. And you too will know it after hearing it once…

An 80s song by the Austria band Zillertauer Schürzenjäger* (roughly translated as the “Heartbreaker from Zillertau”), this is one where everyone sways, sometimes arm in arm, and sings along.  The band – and the song – are in the Alpen-Rock genre, which is a blend of folk, pop, and rock.

Sierra Madre Wenn der Morgen kommt und die letzten Schatten vergeh'n Schau'n die Menschen der Sierra hinauf zu den sonnigen Höh'n Schau'n hinauf wo der weisse Kondor so einsam zieht Wie ein Grüss an die Sonne erklingt ihr altes Lied [Chorus] Sierra, Sierra Madre del Sur Sierra, Sierra Madre. Oh, oh, Sierra, Sierra Madre del Sur, Sierra, Sierra Madre. Wenn die Arbeit getan der Abendfrieden nun beginnt Schau'n die Menschen hinauf wo die Sierra im Abendrot brennt Und sie denken daran wie schnell ein Glück oft vergeht Und aus tausend' Herzen klingt es wie ein Gebet

Sierra Madre When the morning comes and the last shadow goes The people of the Sierra look up to the sunny heights Look up where the white condor so lonely flies Greet the sun like an old song you’ve heard [Chorus] Sierra, Sierra Madre del Sur Sierra, Sierra Madre. Oh, oh, Sierra, Sierra Madre del Sur, Sierra, Sierra Madre. When work is done the evening peace begins The people of the Sierra look up where the sunset burns And they remember how quickly luck often goes And from a thousand hearts, it sounds like a prayer

*Schürzenjäger is a new favourite German word. It’s an old one, but since it literally translates to “blouse-hunter” I guess it’s the German equivalent of “skirt-chaser!”

Anita:

Another prime example of classic 70s schlager is Costa Cordalis’ Anita, with the audience echoing Anita.

Anita [Chorus] Ich fand sie irgendwo allein in Mexiko Anita (Anita) schwarz war ihr Haar. die Augen wie zwei Sterne so klar Komm steig auf dein Pferd sagte ich zu ihr Anita (Anita) Fiesta ist heut’ die Stadt ist nicht mehr weit mach dich schnell bereit Ich seh dir an da schlummert ein Vulkan du wartest auf die Liebe ich will sie wecken und alles entdecken was keiner bisher sah hohohoho Reite wie der Wind bis die Nacht beginnt Anita (Anita) dann sind wir da und jeder soll es sehn wie wir uns verstehn Musikanten herbei spielt ein Lied für uns zwei bei Musik und bei Wein woll'n wir heut glücklich sein [Chorus]  Ich bau für uns ein Nest wo sich's leben Iässt Anita (Anita) in Mexiko denn nur bei dir allein werd ich immer sein. Um uns herum da sassen sie ganz stumm und machten grosse Augen die companeros mit ihren sombreros denn nun gehörst du mir hohohoho Heute ist die Nacht nicht zum Schlafen da Anita (Anita) denn so ein Fest gab es noch nirgendwo hier in Mexiko Musikanten herbei spielt ein Lied für uns zwei bei Musik und bei Wein woll'n wir heut glücklich sein [Chorus]  Ich bau für uns ein Nest wo sich's leben Iässt Anita (Anita)

Anita [Chorus]  I found her alone somewhere in Mexico Anita (Anita) Black was her hair, Her eyes like two stars, so clear Come, climb on your horse I said to her Anita (Anita) Fiesta is today the city isn’t far Get ready quickly I look at you as a dormant volcano you wait for love I want to wake you and explore everything that no one saw before hohohoho Ride like the wind Until the night begins Anita (Anita) then we are there and everyone should see how we understand each other Musicians come here play a song for us two with music and wine we’ll be happy today [Chorus]  I built a nest for us where love can be Anita (Anita) In  Mexico Then only with you alone Will I always be. All around us as they sat quite silent and made big eyes the companeros with their sombreros because now you're mine hohohoho Today is the night not for sleeping Anita (Anita) because such a party there was still nowhere here in Mexico Musicians come here play a song for us two with music and wine we’ll be happy today [Chorus]  I built a nest for us Where love can be Anita (Anita)

Fürstenfeld:

Another one from the 80s, this time by Austrian band S.T.S. This is a cool rock ballad about a musician who moved from to the big city (Vienna) and now just wants to go back home (to Fürstenfeld).  The original definitely has a more Austrian accent than you’ll hear at Oktoberfest. Sometimes you’ll get it in the original Austrian, sometimes more hochdeutsch.  And often the band may omit a few of the slower verses in order to get to the great chorus more quickly.

Give it a listen, it does speed up and is a great song

For extra fun, you can see the 80s original video here.

Fürstenfeld Langsam find't der Tog sei End, und die Nocht beginnt. In der Kärntnerstroßen, do singt ana “Blowing in the Wind”. Hot a grianes Reckerl an, steht do ganz verlur'n, und der Steff'l, der schaut obi auf den ormen Steirer Buam. Der hat woll'n sei Glück probieren in der großen fremden Stadt Hat glaubt, sei Musik bringt ihn auf's Rennbahn - Express Titelblatt Aus der Traum, zerplatzt wie Seifenblasen, nix is blieb Als wie a paar Schilling in sein Gitarrenkoffer drin Wochenlang steh' i scho do, wochenlang plog i mi oh, i spül mir die Finger wund und sing sogor "Do kummt die Sunn". Doch es ist zum narrisch werd'n, kana wüll mi singan her'n. Longsom kriag i wirklich g'nua, i frog mi wos i do dua. Da geht den ganzen Tag der Wind, Nix als Baustellen, dass ka Mensch was find't Die Burenhäut'ln sind ein Graus Und im Kaffeehaus brenntst di aus [Chorus] I wüll wieder ham, i fühl mi do so alla, brauch ka große Wölt, i wü ham nach Fürstenföld. In der Zeitung, do hom's g'schrieb'n, do gibt's a Szene, do muaßt hin. Wos die woll'n, des soll'n sie schreib'n, mir konn die Szene g'stohl'n bleib'n. Da geh' i gestern im U4, fangt a Dirndl an zum Red'n mit mir, schworze Lippen, grüne Hoor, do kannst ja Angst kriag'n, wirklich wohr. [Chorus] Niemals spül i mehr in Wien, Wien hot mi gor net verdient, i spül höchstens no in Graz, Sinabelkirchen und Stinaz. I brauch kan Gürt'l, I brauch kan Ring, I wüll z'ruck hinter'n Semmering, I brauch nur des bissl Göd für die Fohrt noch Fürstenföld. [Chorus x3]

Fürstenfeld Slowly the day ends and the night begins In Kärtnerstrasse he sings "Blowing in the Wind" Wearing green, looking so forlorn And the Steffl looks down on the poor Styrian He who wants to try his luck in the big foreign city Who believes music brings him to the Rennbahn-Express front page The dream is popped like a bubble, nothing is left But a few shillings in his guitar case For weeks I stand here, for weeks I’ve worked I played my my fingers to the bone and even sang "Do kummt the Sunn" It makes me crazy, no one wants to hear me sing Finally I’ve had enough, I ask myself what I’m doing Since the wind blows all day One finds nothing but construction The sausages are a horror And the coffee houses expensive [Chorus] I want to go home, I feel so alone, I don’t need  a big world, I want to go home to Fürstenfeld In the newspaper they write that there’s a music scene, you must go By writing that they make me want the scene to stay lost to me Yesterday I went to the U4, a girl started to talk to me, Black lips, green hair, It can be scary, that’s the truth [Chorus] I won’t play anymore in Vienna Vienna doesn’t deserve me At the highest, I’d play Graz,  Sinabelkirchen or Stinatz I don’t need The Gürtl, I don’t need The Ring I want to go back behind The Semmering I just need a little money for the trip to Fürstenfeld [Chorus x3]

Bayern des samma mia:

This one isn’t technically a classic, since it was made in 1998 by Haindling, a Bavarian (niederbayrischen, to be specific…) NeuenVolksmusik band (“New Folk Music” genre). However, it’s in the traditional Bavarian beerhall style, so we’ll put it here as being traditional style music.  It’s a bit of a nonsensical song, just putting together some stereotypes about Bavarians into a Bavarian folk song, but it gets played often.  There are about 4 different lines to the song, which are then just mixed in different orders to form a song…definitely a beer drinking song, possibly even a good drinking game where you have to drink when you screw up the lines. Though not sure anyone would make it through!

Since we had Viva Colonia set to a video of Rammstein in the last post, you can also see Rammstein actually singing this one at the Olympiahalle in Munich. Not sure the story behind it…I hope it’s that they had seen all the YouTube videos people made using footage of them for the song, and decided to have a little fun at a concert.  

Bayern des samma mia Seid’s freindlich – jawoi! Seid’s freindlich hob I gsagt – jawoi! Seid’s freindlich hob I gsagt no amoi –jawoi Mir kannst no a Weissbier bringa ! Bayern, des samma mir! Jawoi! Bayern, des samma mir! Jawoi! Bayern, des samma mir! Bayern jawoi des samma mir! Bayern, des samma mir! Mir samma mir des samma mir! Bayern, des samma mir, Bayern und des bayerische Bier! Bayern und des Reinheitsgebot, dies is unser flüssiges Brot! [Chorus] Bayern des samma mir, Bayern und des bayerische Bier! Bayern, jawoi des samma mir! Bayern und des bayerische Bier! Bayern und des Reinheitsgebot, deis is unser flüssiges Brot! Bayern und des bayerische Bier, Bayern jawoi des samma mir! [Chorus 2x] Bayern und des Reinheitsgebot, Bayern und des Reinheitsgebot... Bayern des samma mir! Seid’s freindlich!

Bavaria, that’s what we are Be friendly – yes! Be friendly, I tell you – yes! Be friendly, I tell you again– yes! You can bring me another weissbier! Bavaria, that’s what we are! Yes! Bavaria, that’s what we are! Yes! Bavaria, that’s what we are! Bavaria, yes that’s what we are! Bavaria, that’s what we are! That’s what we are, what we are! Bavaria, that’s what we are! Bavaria and Bavarian beer! Bavaria and the Beer Purity Law, This is our liquid bread! [Chorus] Bavaria, that’s what we are! Bavaria and Bavarian beer! Bavaria, yes that’s what we are! Bavaria and Bavarian beer! Bavaria and the Beer Purity Law, This is our liquid bread! Bavaria and Bavarian beer! Bavaria, yes that’s what we are! [Chorus 2x] Bavaria and the Beer Purity Law, Bavaria and the Beer Purity Law… Bavaria, that’s what we are! Be friendly!

Er Hat Ein Knallrotes Gummiboot:

So, I’m not really a big fan of this one, but it’s one you’ll probably hear, and luckily one that’s really simple to learn. The original 1970 #1 hit is by Norwegian songstress Wenche Myhre, who competed several times in the Eurovision Song Contest.  Here we have a video by popular Austrian singer Antonia aus Tirol, whose name is in reference to her first TV appearance with DJ Ötzi performing his hit Anton aus Tirol.

Er hat ein knallrotes Gummiboot [Chorus] Er hat ein knallrotes Gummiboot Mit diesem Gummiboot fahren wir hinaus Er hat ein knallrotes Gummiboot Und erst im Abendrot kommen wir nach Haus Johnny, der fühlt sich wie Christoph Kolumbus Und hat sogar einen Bart Vor den Gefahren der christlichen Seefahrt Warnt er mich vor jeder Fahrt "Das Küssen an Bord ist verboten Ich sage dir auch warum Das Boot ist eine Konstruktion Die kippt beim Küssen um." [Chorus] Wir haben kein Segel und keinen Motor und keine Kombüse, oh nein Wir schaukeln mit Liebe und sehr viel Humor in's große Glück hinein! [Chorus] Johnny ist mutig und stolz wie Lord Nelson Auch noch bei Windstärke Drei Brausen die Stürme und plätschert der Regen Ruft er verwegen "Ahoi!" Und sollte die Luft uns entweichen Ja das nimmt er gerne in Kauf Die Fahrradpumpe ist im Boot Und er, er pumpt es auf [Chorus] La-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la La-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la [Chorus]

He has a bright red rubber boot [Chorus] He has a bright red rubber boot With this rubber boat we go out He has a bright red rubber boot And we don’t get home until sunset Johnny, who feels like Christopher Columbus And even has a beard Against the dangers of Christian navigation He warns me before every ride "The kissing is not allowed on board I'll tell you why The boat is a construction That is overturned by kissing." [Chorus] We have no sails and no engine and no galley, oh no We rock with love and much humor into great luck! [Chorus] Johnny is brave and proud like Lord Nelson Even at wind strength three Storms roar and rain splashes He boldly calls "Ahoy!" And should the air leak ou Yes, takes into account The bicycle pump is in the boat And he, he pumps it up [Chorus] La-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la La-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la-la [Chorus]

Ich war noch niemals in New York:

One of the classic schlager songs by Udo Jürgens, it seems most everyone in Germany knows the words to this one.  There’s nothing particularly Oktoberfest about this one, but everyone seems to enjoy it, often linking arms and swaying together while singing.

Ich war noch niemals in New York Und nach dem Abendessen sagte er, laß mich noch eben Zigaretten holen geh'n, sie rief ihm nach nimm Dir die Schlüssel mit, ich werd inzwischen nach der Kleinen seh'n, er zog die Tür zu, ging stumm hinaus, ins neon-helle Treppenhaus, es roch nach Bohnerwachs und Spießigkeit. und auf der Treppe dachte er, wie wenn das jetzt ein Aufbruch wär, ich müßte einfach geh'n für alle Zeit, für alle Zeit... [Chorus] Ich war noch niemals in New York, ich war noch niemals auf Hawaii, ging nie durch San Franzisko in zerriss'nen Jeans, Ich war noch niemals in New York, ich war noch niemals richtig frei, einmal verrückt sein und aus allen Zwängen flieh'n. Und als er draussen auf der Straße stand, fiel ihm ein, daß er fast alles bei sich trug, den Paß, die Eurochecks und etwas Geld, vielleicht ging heute abend noch ein Flug. Er könnt' ein Taxi nehmen dort am Eck oder Autostop und einfach weg, die Sehnsucht in ihm wurde wieder wach, nach einmal voll von Träumen sein, sich aus der Enge hier befrei'n, er dachte über seinen Aufbruch nach,seinen Aufbruch nach... [Chorus] Dann steckte er die Zigaretten ein und ging wie selbstverständlich heim, durchs Treppenhaus mit Bohnerwachs und Spießigkeit, die Frau rief "Mann, wo bleibst Du bloß, Dalli-Dalli geht gleich los", sie fragte "War was?" - "Nein, was soll schon sein." [Chorus]

I have never been to New York And after dinner he said, “Let me just get some cigarettes.” She called after him, “Take the keys with you, I’ll watch the the kid.” He closed the door, walked out silently, Into the neon-lit stairwell, It smelled of floor polish and smugness And on the stairs he thought, “What if this were a departure, I'd simply go for all time For all time ... [Chorus] I have never been to NY, I have never been to Hawaii, Never walked through San Francisco in ripped jeans I have never been to NY, I was never really free, Once being crazy and crossing all limits And as he stood outside on the street, He realized that he was carrying everything with him, The passport, the Eurocard and some money, perhaps there was even still a flight this evening He could take a taxi there at the corner Or the stop and simply be gone, The longing inside him again awoke, To be once full of dreams, To be freed from the limits He thought of his departure, his departure [Chorus] Then he put his cigarretes into his pockets, And of course went home, Through the stairwell with floor polish and smugness His wife called "Hey, where have you been, Dalli Dalli starts in a minute," She asked "Has something happened?" "No, what should have happened" [Chorus]

Skandal Im Sperrbezirk:

Another one on my workout mix, this one comes courtesy of the Neuen Deutsche Welle (German New Wave) school of music.  It was a #1 hit for the Bavarian band Spider Murphy Gang.  Perhaps it’s that my ear is partial to Munich German, but this is one of the easier ones to follow once you see the words. 

The song is a bit rebellious, telling the story of the fictional phone sex operator Rosie who takes good economic advantage of Munich politics.  As you’ve probably heard now thanks to Bonn’s new prostitute “parking meters,” prostitution is legal in Germany.  However, cities may designate a “Sperrbezirk,” or restricted area, in which prostitution is banned to protect the youth and public decency. 

So, our Rosie quite wisely just advertises in the daily paper, giving her number for customers to call, while the real working girls stand around, bored and flat footed, outside of the city center.

Skandal Im Sperrbezirk In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus doch Freudenhäuser müssen raus, damit in dieser schönen Stadt das Laster keine Chance hat! Doch jeder ist gut informiert weil Rosie täglich inseriert und wenn dich deine Frau nicht liebt wie gut, daß es die Rosi gibt! [Chorus] Und draußen vor der großen Stadt stehen die Nutten sich die Füße platt! Skandal [Skandal] im Sperrbezirk Skandal [Skandal] im Sperrbezirk Skandal Skandal um Rosie! Ja Rosie hat ein Telefon auch ich hab' ihre Nummer schon. Unter 32-16-8 herrscht Konjunktur die ganze Nacht. Und draußen im Hotel d'Amour langweilen sich die Damen nur, weil jeder den die Sehnsucht quält ganz einfach Rosies Nummer wählt. [Chorus] Und draußen vor der großen Stadt stehen die Nutten sich die Füße platt! Skandal (Skandal) im Sperrbezirk Skandal (Skandal) im Sperrbezirk Skandal Skandal um Rosie! Moral Skandal Moral Skandal .. Skandal um Rosie!

Scandal in the Restricted Zone In Munich stands a Hofbräuhaus But brothels have to get out, so in this beautiful city vice has no chance! But everyone is well informed because Rosie inserts a daily ad and if your wife does’t give love it’s good that Rosie’s there! [Chorus] And outside the big city Stand hookers on flat feet! Scandal [Scandal] in the restricted area Scandal [Scandal] in the restricted zone Scandal Scandal over Rosie! Yes, Rosie has a phone and I've got her number already. Under 32-16-8 economy goes throughout the night. And outside the Hotel d'Amour the ladies just feel bored, because everyone tormented by longing simply dials Rosies number. [Chorus] And outside the big city stand hookers on flat feet! Scandal (scandal) in the restricted zone Scandal (scandal) in the restricted zone Scandal Scandal over Rosie! Morality Scandal Morality Scandal .. Rosie scandal!

In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus:

Skandal im Sperrbezirk is an appropriate lead-in to the next one, also known as the Hofbräuhaus-lied (The Hofbräuhaus Song).  The first line of Skandal references this song, which the Hofbräuhaus describes on its site as a “musical love letter to the most famous beer hall in the world.”

Berlin composer Wiga Gabriel wrote the words to a friend in 1935, and another friend set it to Bavarian brass music, creating on of the best known German songs.  After springing to popularity through Karneval, this song has been remade in so many different ways over the years.  If you prefer the music-only version (no singing), here’s a good one.... Or Franzl Lang’s more Alpine version, complete with yodelling...Or band Onkel Tom’s heavy metal version which shockingly is more painful than the yodelling. 

A band may play the whole song, or may just play the chorus. We’ll give you the whole thing here, complete with scenes from Munich. The singing starts around 0:56. 

Did I mention that it’s full of late 80s cheesy TV production quality, bad hair, puffy sleeves and LOTS of sitting and swaying.  Klasse!

In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus Da, wo die grüne Isar fließt, Wo man mit "Grüß Gott" dich grüßt, Liegt meine schöne Münch'ner Stadt, Die ihresgleichen nicht hat. Wasser ist billig, rein und gut, Nur verdünnt es unser Blut, Schöner sind Tropfen gold'nen Wein's, Aber am schönsten ist eins: [Chorus] In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus: Eins, zwei, g'suffa . . . Da läuft so manches Fäßchen aus: Eins, zwei, g'suffa . . . Da hat so manche braver Mann: Eins, zwei, g'suffa . . . Gezeigt was er so vertragen kann Schon früh am Morgen fing er an Und spät am Abend kam er heraus So schön ist's im Hofbräuhaus. Da trinkt man Bier nicht aus dem Glas, Da gibt's nur "die große Maß!" Und wenn der erste Maßkrug leer, Bringt dir die Reserl bald mehr. Oft kriegt zu Haus die Frau 'nen Schreck, Bleibt der Mann mal länger weg. Aber die braven Nachbarsleut', Die wissen besser Bescheid! [Chorus] Wenn auch so manche schöne Stadt Sehenswürdigkeiten hat, Eins gibt es nirgendwo wie hier: Das ist das Münchener Bier. Wer dieses kleine Lied erdacht Hat so manche lange Nacht Über dem Münchener Bier studiert Und hat es gründlich probiert. [Chorus]

In Munich stands a Hofbräuhaus There, where the green Isar flows, Where everyone with "God Bless" greets you, Stands Munich my beautiful city, She has no peers. Water is cheap, clean and good, Only it dilutes our blood, More beautiful are drops of golden wine, But the best is this one: [Chorus] In Munich stands a Hofbräuhaus: One, two, cheers! Since so many keg runs out: One, two, cheers! As it has so many good men: One, two, cheers! Shown what he can tolerate Early in the morning, he began And late in the evening he came out So beautiful is it in the Hofbräuhaus. There no one drinks beer from a glass, There's only "the big mug!" And when the first beer mug is empty, The waitress brings you more soon. Often the wives at home fear, That the men stay away so long. But the good neighbors, They are better informed! [Chorus] Though many beautiful cities Have tourist sites, One thing is nowhere like here: This is the Munich beer. Who thought up this little song Has so many a long night Studied Munich beer And tasted it thoroughly. [Chorus]

Marmor Stein und Eisenbrick:

Another schlager classic that has stood the test of time. This one has a little bit of 50s and rock to it, so is well suited to being updated over the decades. And it’s easy for the crowds to sing.

Drafi Deutscher recorded this song in 1965. Impressive hair height and collar length…

Marmor, Stein und Eisen bricht Weine nicht, wenn der Regen fällt (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) Es gibt einen der zu Dir hält (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus] Marmor, Stein und Eisen bricht Aber unsere Liebe nicht Alles, alles geht vorbei Doch wir sind uns treu Kann ich einmal nicht bei dir sein (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) Denk daran, du bist nicht allein (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus 2x] Nimm den goldenen Ring von mir (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) Bist Du traurig dann sagt er dir (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus 2x] Everybody now! [Chorus 2x]

Marble, Stone and Iron Break: Don't cry, when the rain falls (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) There's someone who will stick by you (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus] Marble, stone and iron break But not our love Everything, everything will pass But we are faithful to us If I can't be with you some (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) Think about it, that you're not alone (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus 2x] Take this golden ring from me (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) If you're sad then it will tell you (Dam Dam, Dam Dam) [Chorus] Everybody now! [Chorus 2x]

Er gehört zu mir:

I’ve put a recent performance here for the video, but you can also check out the 1975 original version that premiered in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Er gehört zu mir [Chorus] Er gehört zu mir, wie mein Name an der Tür und ich weiß er bleibt hier Nie vergess’ ich unsern ersten Tag , denn ich fühlte gleich das er mich mag , ist es wahre Liebe, die nie mehr vergeht oder wird die Liebe vom Winde verweht? [Chorus] Alles fangen wir gemeinsam an, doch vergess’ ich nie wie man allein sein kann , steht es in den Sternen was die Zukunft bringt oder muss ich lernen das alles zerrinnt? Nein ich hab es ihm nie leicht gemacht , mehr als einmal hab ich mich gefragt , ist es wahre Liebe die nie mehr vergeht oder wird die Liebe vom Winde verweht Er gehört zu mir für immer zu mir für immer zu mir [Chorus]

He belongs to me [Chorus]  He belongs to me, like my name on the door and I know he’ll stay here I never forget our first day, because I felt right away that he liked me. Is it true love, that never fades away or will love be blown away by the wind? [Chorus] We begin everything together, but I never forget how alone one can be. Is it in the stars, what the future brings or must I learn that everything melts away? No, I have never made it easy for him, more than once I have asked myself: Is it true love, that never fades away or will the love blow away by the wind? He belongs to me Forever to me Forever to me [Chorus]

I’ll leave you with a bonus video of Wolfgang Fierek’s 1986 hit I hol di mit meim Traktor ab, which translates to I’ll pick you up in my tractor.

There’s one more Oktoberfest Song megapost to come…the easy one full of Oktoberfest songs you already know (but didn’t know they were Oktoberfest songs) 

Solving the Hasselhoff Mystery

Using our investigative powers, we set out to try to understand the rumored German love of David Hasselhoff. Most of our German friends (and the German press) say this is just a crazy American misconception about Germans. Even Der Spiegel writes about how "for years, Germans have been hoping that the world would forgive and forget" Germany's "love affair with David Hasselhoff."

Sure, it makes perfect sense that he has a place in the collective memory thanks to his Looking for Freedom song. It just came at the perfect time.

But it were only that one song, could he still support a tour today? Would the concertgoers all be 40 and 50-year olds reliving the nostalgia? If Germans really do like his music, why is that?

We set out to answer these questions for you. Our first stop was to fuel up with a dinner in his honor - hamburgers. Thank you, Hard Rock for having good American-style burgers and fries!

After our burgers and an Ayinger Helles to help prepare us for whatever was to come, we headed out to the Deutsches Theatre to see what The Hoff had for us. We were shocked to see so many young people standing out front, many with T-shirts (both bought and made), props, and costumes. And all of them were quite young - they definitely were not old enough to remember his 1989 Berlin Wall appearance! They were also overwhelmingly German. We didn't notice any other English-speakers, though I'm sure there were some.

These guys here were in a big group that had shirts made for the event, and the guys below came in Baywatch costumes, complete with scuplted foam pecs and abs. We also had someone wearing the California flag, a guy in a Baywatch shirt and lederhosen, and a group in Afro wigs....which I didn't fully understand, but I'm guessing they had leftover from a 70s party and thought it fit the occasion. No question, it was a very festive atmosphere!

And even KITT came along on the tour!  

 

I guess I've been in Germany too long now, as I was suprised when he still had not come on stage 15 minutes after showtime. The crowd alternated between chanting his name and singing - it was a lot like a football match, strangely.

After a lengthy intro video montage highlighting his career as The Most Watched TV Star in history, The Hoff came out to sing I've Been Looking for Freedom. After a couple of songs we were surprised by the energy level - with lights and costume changes on stage, and a crowd that sang along and danced to all the songs, it just stayed at a very high level.

We have The Hoff in a (vinyl??) tux, in leather fringed jacket, in Baywatch attire, in a turquoise suit, in a sequined jacket, and more!

They made heavy use of the side screens, especially for videos while The Hoff was changing costumes. Of course there was a Knight Rider one, where we watch his heroics as Michael Knight, rescuer of damsels in distress.

Here we have the Baywatch Montage, which includes a parade of Baywatch Babes (and shirtless guys, German is all about equal rights for women...) and ends with his cover of "California Girls."


He did perform his famous German-language song "Wir Zwei," a duet he famously performed with 13 year-old Gwen Obertuck in 1993. It's a very beautiful song about a father and daughter remembering the wife/mother they lost. You can see the original here on an old TV recording. This one brought out the sparklers and lighters:   

The sparklers came out again for his cover of "This Time Around." I think this is such a good song for him - his voice is very well suited to the cabaret type songs, and the lyrics of making the most of a second chance are so appropriate for him!
 

But mostly, the concert was just about having fun. It was in a smaller venue, so felt full and personal, and the crowd just had a great time dancing.
The Swiss guys next to us turned their banners and flags into limbo poles for the Limbo Dance Song. Yes, this song is unbelievably cheesy...but the guy taking iPhone video of himself while limboing cracks me up!

More importantly, we did discover the truth about Hasselhoff and the German-speaking world. And I think the man is brilliant. He can sing, though he'd never have a successful career based solely on his voice. But he's an entertainer and gives the crowd what they want. Why does he have a career here? There are several reasons: 

1) David Hasselhoff is the ultimate American Schlager star. Yes, I said it....Hasselhoff = Schlager. Even the Münchener-Merkur newspaper review drew those comparisons, calling him "a mixture of Boney M. and Hansi Hintersee on speed."

2) He covers the songs the crowd wants - In addition to California Girls, This Time Around, and Rhinestone Cowboy, he sang the one song every German can sing at karaoke - Country Roads.

3) His original songs are:

        a) very simple lyrics with repetition. They're written so that someone who has never heard the song before can sing along after the first verse.

        b) often based on other well-known German songs. This is a major tenet of my Theory of Hasselhoff in German/Austria.  I think he works here largely because he uses melodies and rhythms that already were successful and know as fun party songs. We know "I've Been Looking for Freedom" was based on a 70's schlager hit "Auf der Strasse nach Süden," but there are more.

           "Time To Rock the World" basically takes the chorus from "Hey, wir woll'n die Eisbärn sehn." It's a song from the 1990's that's become a popular après ski song and has been adopted by many sports teams. Check out the two:
Hasselhoff's "Time To Rock the World":

Compared with the Puhdy's 1997 "Hey, wir woll'n die Eisbärn sehn." (translation "we want to see the polar bears").

Hey, wir woll'n die Eisbärn sehn von Puhdys
© Puhdys-Videos bei Clipfish

And the song "You Are a Hero" off his upcoming album sounds suspiciously similar to YMCA....so much, in fact, that the crowd did the YMCA motions!

There were a few others that were strangely familiar to us, but we couldn't place the specific songs. Sure, it's derivative...but this is what makes a Hasselhoff concert fun. You can go in not knowing any of his songs, and you will feel like you did know them after all. It's very accessible.  

4) The songs are all upbeat and positive. Germans may have a rep for being less than optimistic, but they like their songs to be positive and happy!

5) And finally, he brings a little of the crazy, carefree good aspects of American culture. Everyone loves a little Vegas in their life, and he brings Vegas to his shows with the dancers, themes, costume changes, and yes, even a pole dancer.

And of course he closes the sets with "I've Been Looking For Freedom," wearing the same piano key scarf he wore in 1989.

Overall, we were really surprised. By the crowd....their unwaning enthusiasm, their costumes, the bras thrown on stage (who knew that was done here???), and their rule breaking (sparklers, and sneaking in beer bottles).....and also by The Hoff himself. We thought it would be a fun cultural experience, but we had a really great time. It was one of most fun concerts I've attended - it was a lot like a frat party, but with a guy on stage and a band and lights and stuff. Very casual and open. If he comes back, we're going again. But this time we'll have costumes.

The verdict: He may not be the best singer or have the most original songs, but Hasselhoff is an entertainer and he puts on a great show. As for the purported German love affair with The Hoff...well, it's complicated...those who were old enough to remember having to listen to his song(s) EVERYWHERE in the late 80s find the memory of being forced to listen to him painful. To the younger ones, his music is more of a kitschy, fun thing. That's enough to pull off a small tour each year, but you won't be seeing him high on the charts. Will be interesting to see how his new album sells.    

Schlager Music

When most of us think of Germany's musical contributions, we think Bach, Beethovern, Brahms, or Wagner. Or Nena, The Scorpions, Tokio Hotel, new wave, techno, or oompah bands.

But when you spend enough time in Germany (especially Southern Germany), you find out about Schlagermusik.

The closest translation of "Schlager" is "hit." It was very popular in the 60's and 70's across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and has had a huge revival in the last 10 years. So hard to describe, but at its best, Schlager is kitschy, cheesy, often ballad-style, usually upbeat, and a lot of fun. Throw in some bad hair, glittery costumes, choreography, props and the usual pop production tricks, and there you have it. There's a beat to clap along with and catchy lyrics for the audience to sing...and there's a big niche in the Schlager for songs inspired by Spanish, Mexican, and Carribean rhythms (or lyrics that refer to their beaches). I'm guess it has something to do with the German love for great sun & sand vacations, but who knows?  They don't stray too far from home though - the music videos and Sunday morning TV programs often have Alpine backgrounds and dirndl-type attire in the performances.

Schlager started in the 60s with a sound similar to popular American folk music (reminds me of The Lawrence Welk Show type performances, The Carpenters, Petula Clark, and so on), then moved on to some full-on 70s craziness, and a little more pop rock in the 80s. Today, well...think of the music of Neil Diamond and persona of Tom Jones (his music works too)...they're cheesy, a bit dated, and so much fun.

There are endless CDs and DVDs sold on late night TV, television specials, Schlager Star Parade tours throughout Germany, and the annual Schlager Nacht auf Schalke at the Veltins Arena. And the annual Eurovision Song Contest is heavy on the Schlager style! But where you'll hear endless schlager is at Oktoberfest, any après ski hut, and in surprisingly many bars in Mallorca and other similar spots full of German tourists. It's everywhere...but no one really wants to admit how much they enjoy it.

(On a side note, the Danish have taken on the Schlager baton, and are adding a great cheesy tecnopop spin to it.)

Herr J and I are having a great time investigating this aspect of German culture. Good research requires us to go to concerts, musicals, skiing, beer festivals, and such.  The closer it's tied to Oktoberfest or the Alps, the more there's some accordion and folk influence (including the electronic and techno versions!). We're working on a little guide of songs you need to know for Oktoberfest and Skiing. But for now, here are some of the most popular Schlager hits. Even if you don't understand a single word, they're very catchy and fun.

Ein Stern (der deinen Namen trägt):
I'll start you off easy, with one that's a good, solid pop song (check out the studio version here - more modern, but it's some guy's star picture slideshow). You'll also get the full effect from the crowd (they do not help combat the stereotype of rhythmless white people) and the dancers. This one is a live version, performed at a summer concert in Maastrict last year.

It's a sweet love song, with lyrics about giving your loved one a star in their name, and very catchy.

Classic Schlager - Ich war noch niemals in New York:
A classic hit by one of the schlager masters, Udo Jürgens. Translated as "I've never been to New York," it's about unfulfilled dreams. A husband goes out to buy cigarettes after dinner and starts thinking about all the things he's never done and realizes he could just hop on a plane now and see them. But in the end he buys his cigarettes and goes back home.
You can find the lyrics here, and in English. I heard this one at every beer festival and fair! (The lady who sings New York, New York has a pretty great voice!)

Schlager with dance steps - Fliegerlied (So ein schöner Tag):
I admit without shame I love this song. And last year I finally got the words and motions. Don't worry, we'll cover the steps when we get you ready for Oktoberfest and après ski...
There are better recordings of the song, but I like how this video captures the alpine setting and has people in animal costumes.

70s Schlager - Dschinghis Khan:
Yes, like Ghengis Khan, but in German words starting with the "J" sound are spelled with "Dsch". So, "Jungle" sounds almost the same as the German word "Dschungel."

This one is more funny than good, and was Germany's entry into Eurovision 1979. The 1979 part of it shows! These guys were not a one-hit wonder, they were quite popular...the intro to their song Moskau reminds me a lot of the Knight Rider theme. Anyway, Herr J and I saw this video on an infomercial and couldn't stop laughing.

70s Schlager - Anita
Not suprisingly, this is about a girl named Anita he falls in love with in Mexico. Costa Cordalis came to Germany from Greece as a teenager and became a big Schlager star...and is still performing his hits today in the tours.

80s Schlager - 1000 un 1 Nacht:
This one's about a girl and a guy who are friends. For a thousand nights, he's loved her but "nothing happened". The lyrics of the chorus say that they "Touched a thousand times; A thousand times nothing happened. But on the 1001st night... Boom!"
 

Rock Schlager - Wahnsinn (Hölle, Hölle, Hölle):
This one is a big hit in Oktoberfest and après ski. Entitled "Madness (hell, hell, hell)," it's basically a song about a girl who drives him crazy and makes his life hell, but he still wants her. What really appeals to the crowd (beyond the usual pop rock beat and melody tricks), is that there are many parts of the song where the crowd is supposed to yell something at the end of a verse, e.g., after "And my pride is long in the garbage" the crowd yells "Garbage, hazardous waste!" (Müll, Sondermüll!)

Die Hände zum Himmel:
Basically it says "Hands up to heaven" and is about rejoicing, celebrating life, and knowing that tonight you are not alone. This video in particular is a great example of the full television special production and a song with some leanings toward folk music. This one may be one of the Fasching parties that have been on TV the past week. But you'll definitely hear this one at Oktoberfest, and it's also one of the FC Bayern fan songs, and the Austrians seem to be big fans too. I don't know what words to use to begin finding out what this thing is, but we saw this guy at the World Cup Alpine Ski.

And then there's the man who has it all....the hair, the suit, the name, and the fantastic light shows....Hansi Hintersee!

Some are even performed on a stadium-rock scale.  Here are the East German group Puhdys singing "Hey, wir wollen die Eisbär sehen" (Hey, we want to see the Polar Bears).  It's the anthem for the Berlin Polar Bears, a professional ice hockey team.

Really, it's a genre unique to this area, but there are a few foreign performers who could be included.  For comparison (and your listening pleasure)....Sweet Caroline and Sex Bomb....both songs we often hear here too. The crowd went wild at Oktoberfest when the band played Sweet Caroline. I wouldn't say Neil Diamond's music generally is similar, but this song is close, when played with some energy. Tom Jones, however....he's all Schlager!

I'm sure it's purely coincidence that The Carpenters performed at the White House for visiting West German chancellor Willy Brandt, but you could switch the words to German and it would have fit perfectly into any 1970s schlager show!