Not particularly surprising: folk music, brass music and chansons are not hits at 4.2 percent. However, this category does not include German Schlager. It is now dominated by singers like Helene Fischer and Vanessa Mai, who also incorporate pop and house elements into their songs. At least one sixth (14.9 percent) of young people like to listen to hits. Classical music, on the other hand, plays almost no role among young people.
Song from children’s film becomes a hit as a techno remix
In addition to rock, pop, hip-hop and rap, techno and house (61.3 percent) are also listened to a lot. This is shown by the remix “Girl on the Horse”, which was voted summer hit of the year in 2023 – evaluated by the market research company Gfk Entertainment, which also creates the charts in Germany. The techno remake became particularly popular on TikTok. The song originally comes from the children’s and youth film “Bibi and Tina”.
What Music Do Young People in Germany Listen To?
Music is a universal language that reflects cultural trends and personal identity, especially among young people. In Germany, the musical tastes of the younger generation are shaped by global influences, local traditions, and emerging subcultures. This article explores the genres, artists, and trends that resonate with Germany’s youth today.
The Diverse Musical Landscape
Young Germans enjoy a wide range of musical styles, from globally popular genres like pop and hip-hop to uniquely local sounds such as Schlager and techno. The availability of streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube has democratized music access, allowing listeners to explore a diverse array of genres and artists.
Pop Music: The Universal Favorite
Pop remains one of the most popular genres among young Germans. International stars like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Harry Styles dominate playlists, while German pop artists also hold a special place.
- Mark Forster and LEA are beloved for their catchy melodies and relatable lyrics in German.
- Many young listeners appreciate pop for its feel-good vibes and ability to blend other genres, such as electronic and indie influences.
Hip-Hop and Rap: The Voice of a Generation
Hip-hop has become the defining genre for German youth, reflecting their social realities and personal aspirations.
- Local artists like Apache 207, Shirin David, and Capital Bra are household names, blending German lyrics with catchy beats and international rap influences.
- American artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Travis Scott are also widely listened to, influencing German hip-hop styles.
German rap often explores themes like social inequality, identity, and urban life, resonating strongly with young audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Electronic Music: A Cultural Staple
Germany is known as the birthplace of techno, and electronic music continues to thrive among the younger crowd.
- Cities like Berlin and Hamburg are global hubs for techno and house music, attracting both local and international DJs.
- Artists like Paul Kalkbrenner and Robin Schulz have brought electronic music into the mainstream.
Techno festivals like Nature One and Melt Festival draw thousands of young attendees every year, highlighting the enduring appeal of electronic beats.
Indie and Alternative: A Growing Scene
Indie and alternative music have carved out a niche among German youth, particularly in university towns and urban areas.
- Bands like AnnenMayKantereit and Von Wegen Lisbeth deliver raw, emotive music with poetic German lyrics.
- International acts such as Arctic Monkeys and Florence + The Machine also have a dedicated following.
The indie scene is celebrated for its authenticity and the intimate atmosphere of its live performances.
Schlager and Traditional Music: A Nostalgic Twist
While Schlager—Germany’s traditional pop music—is often associated with older generations, a growing number of young people are rediscovering it.
- Modern Schlager artists like Helene Fischer have rejuvenated the genre with fresh production and relatable themes.
- Some youth enjoy Schlager ironically at festivals or parties, where it fosters a fun, communal atmosphere.
Global Influences: K-Pop and Latin Beats
Globalization has significantly impacted the musical tastes of young Germans.
- K-Pop, led by groups like BTS and BLACKPINK, has a massive fanbase among German teenagers. Fans are drawn to the genre’s dynamic performances and its artists’ engagement with their audience on social media.
- Reggaeton and Latin pop, featuring artists like Bad Bunny and Rosalía, are increasingly popular, especially at clubs and summer festivals.
Streaming platforms and social media platforms like TikTok have accelerated the spread of these global genres.
Music Consumption Trends
Streaming Services and Social Media
- Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube are the primary sources of music for young Germans.
- TikTok has become a powerful tool for music discovery, with many German youth discovering new songs and artists through viral trends.
Live Music and Festivals
- Music festivals are a central part of youth culture in Germany. Events like Rock am Ring, Lollapalooza Berlin, and Parookaville attract thousands of young music enthusiasts annually.
- Smaller, genre-specific festivals and live concerts in urban centers also play a significant role in shaping musical preferences.
The Role of Music in Youth Culture
Music is more than just entertainment for young Germans—it’s a means of self-expression and identity.
- Lyrics and Themes: Many young listeners gravitate towards music that reflects their personal experiences or addresses societal issues, such as mental health, climate change, and equality.
- Fashion and Subcultures: Genres like hip-hop and techno often come with distinct fashion and cultural identities, influencing how young people dress and interact.
Challenges and Opportunities
The music industry in Germany faces challenges in catering to the diverse tastes of the younger generation while supporting emerging talent.
- Support for Local Artists: While international music dominates, there is growing support for German artists, with initiatives to promote homegrown talent on streaming platforms and radio.
- Sustainability in Events: Many festivals and concerts are focusing on eco-friendly practices, reflecting the environmental concerns of their young audience.
Conclusion
The music tastes of young people in Germany are as diverse as the country itself. From the infectious beats of German rap to the pulsating rhythms of techno and the global appeal of K-pop, young Germans embrace a wide range of genres and styles. With technology and cultural exchange continuing to shape the musical landscape, the preferences of Germany’s youth will undoubtedly evolve, reflecting their unique blend of tradition and modernity
