Roland Kaiser, the iconic German schlager singer, has captivated audiences for decades with his electrifying performances and heartfelt lyrics. At the age of 72, he remains a vibrant presence in the music scene, with more than 400,000 fans flocking to his concerts in 2024 alone. With exciting plans for an upcoming arena tour, Kaiser is not done yet, making it clear in a recent interview that his journey is like a marathon that he intends to continue running.
As he gears up for his performances at the Lanxess-Arena in Cologne on May 31 and June 1, 2025, Kaiser reflects on his latest album, titled Marathon, which has surprisingly made its way into the German Top-10 charts for four weeks. The album has been well-received and demonstrates how relevant his music continues to be across generations. "Ich mache aber weitere (I will continue to do more)," he expresses playfully, showing his passion for creating music that resonates with fans.
Despite his success, Kaiser has made a significant decision: he will no longer write songs for himself. In his candid discussions, he admits, "Für mich selbst texte ich nicht mehr (I no longer write for myself)." Instead, he welcomes the opportunity for other talented songwriters to bring fresh perspectives to his music. Notably, the poignant song Was aus euch wird, which reflects his thoughts on today’s youth, was written by Eric Philippi. Kaiser praises Philippi's work, stating, "Erstaunlicherweise hat er das zu 100 Prozent getroffen (Surprisingly, he hit it 100 percent)."
With multigenerational fans attending his concerts, Kaiser acknowledges that the appreciation for his music has only grown. He remarks, "Das, was mir in den letzten Jahren passiert ist, hat mich demütiger und dankbarer denn je gemacht (What has happened to me in recent years has made me more humble and more grateful than ever)." It is this kind of humility that contributes to the strong bond he has with his audience. He delights in seeing both longtime supporters and newer, younger fans at his performances, proving just how timeless his music truly is.
Kaiser recently completed his 50 years on stage with a major tour and feels grateful for the journey thus far. He describes his career as placing himself at "Kilometer 32" in a marathon, indicating that while it can be challenging, he is determined to continue. His metaphor captures not only his optimism but also the endurance needed to thrive in the always-evolving music industry. "In a career, you never know if you’ll face a sprint, a middle-distance run, or at best, a marathon. The audience decides how long you get to run!"
Behind the scenes, Kaiser is involved in the planning process, discussing track selection and ensuring that his concerts remain a mesmerizing blend of new and classic songs. He mentions that certain fan favorites are essential, stating that there are at least twelve songs that must make an appearance during his shows. Sieben Fässer Wein, a classic, will make a return, a testament to its lasting allure.
The singer's musical evolution is complemented by his family life. Recently celebrating 29 years of marriage with his wife Silvia, Kaiser attributes much of his success to her encouragement and insight into his art. She was the one who prompted him to tackle notable duets, enhancing both his albums and his performances.
Taking a light-hearted approach to fame, Kaiser admits, "Ich stehe sowieso nicht gerne im Mittelpunkt (I don’t like being in the spotlight anyway)." He values the time spent off-stage with his family at their vacation home, demonstrating that even stars need personal time to recharge. His dedication to fitness, training in his cellar, ensures that he remains sharp and energetic for his audience.
As he looks ahead, Kaiser is committed to releasing more music. He enthuses about the quality of the songs he’s been offered and expresses excitement about the continuing relevance of his work. He believes strongly that music has the power to convey messages of unity and respect, as captured in one of his new tracks, declaring, "Achtung und Respekt ist ein starker Appell für ein besseres Miteinander (Respect and care is a strong appeal for better coexistence)."
In a world where music often serves as a reflection of society, Kaiser’s words resonate deeply. His observations on how the tone of society is becoming more aggressive underscore the importance of kindness in today’s interactions. The singer urges, “Treat others as you wish to be treated,” providing a timeless mantra for audiences to adopt.
With each performance, Roland Kaiser continues to leave an indelible mark on the German music scene. His rich history, coupled with a promise for more, ensures that the essence of his artistry will endure for generations to come. Whether you’ve followed him from the start or are just discovering his music, his shows promise an unforgettable experience. Watch out for Kaiser in Cologne and beyond—he’s running this marathon with passion and precision.