Frank Schöbel, the legendary DDR pop star, was awarded the prestigious '#1 der Besten' for his lifetime achievement at the Schlagerchampions 2025, broadcasted by ARD. The ceremony, hosted by renowned entertainer Florian Silbereisen, celebrated Schöbel's remarkable contributions to the German music scene, solidifying his status as one of the pillars of Schlager music.
The event occurred on Saturday, as fans of the genre eagerly awaited the spectacle of talent and nostalgia. Schöbel, now 82 and as vibrant as ever, delivered a thrilling medley of his greatest hits, which include beloved tracks such as "Komm, wir malen eine Sonne" and "Wie ein Stern." Schöbel's charisma and ability to engage his audience were evident as he took the stage, eliciting enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
After his performance, Silbereisen invited Schöbel to remain on stage for what turned out to be the evening's special highlight. With great anticipation, Silbereisen revealed the contents of a golden envelope, taking Schöbel completely by surprise as he announced, "Lieber Frank, hier steht, wer die Eins der Besten für sein Lebenswerk gewinnt," showcasing Schöbel’s influence and legacy within the music industry. The award, created to honor significant contributions to Schlager music, has previously been bestowed upon other illustrious artists like Nana Mouskouri and Heino.
When receiving the award, Schöbel was visibly moved but expressed his determination to continue performing. "Ich danke dir sehr, aber ich höre noch nicht auf," he declared, emphasizing his passion for music. He famously quipped, "Ich singe solange, bis der Arzt kommt. Und wenn der Arzt kommt, schicke ich ihn nach Hause," showcasing his relentless spirit and commitment to his craft, even at his age.
Schöbel’s career spans decades and includes some of the most successful productions from the DDR era. His holiday album, "Weihnachten in Familie," became the best-selling record of all time during his time, illustrating the deep connection he has maintained with his audience. Schöbel's work has significantly impacted the lives of millions, providing comfort and joy through his music.
Known as the "Florian Silbereisen of the East," Schöbel became one of the first artists from the DDR to gain fame outside its borders. He collaborated with fellow singer Chris Doerk, forming the ultimate power couple of Schlager music, capturing not only industry accolades but also the hearts of fans across the nation.
On stage, Schöbel expressed surprise and delight at being honored, stating, "Das ist genau das, was wir hören wollen," which garnered hearty cheers from the audience. Silbereisen echoed these sentiments, stating how joyful it was to witness such energy and devotion from Schöbel, who, according to him, showed no signs of slowing down at the age of 82.
With the future still bright for Schöbel, fans are left wondering how much longer they can enjoy his performances. When prompted about retirement, he nodded affirmatively, expressing his plans to continue engaging with his fans for many more years, much to their delight.
Having garnered admiration throughout his life, Frank Schöbel's latest accolade at the Schlagerchampions 2025 not only celebrates his past achievements but also serves as inspiration for the future. His legacy is firmly cemented as one of the greats of German music, and his resilience and passion remind us all of the joy found within music, transcending generations.