Austrian performer Andreas Gabalier stands firm: "It's not necessary to satisfy everyone"
Get ready for an intriguing journey as Bavarian Broadcasting (Bayerischer Rundfunk) unveils a new podcast series, "Gabalier - Behind the Leather Pants." This four-episode series, available from 17th July 2025, offers an in-depth exploration into the life, career, and persona of Austrian folk singer Andreas Gabalier, affectionately known as the "VolksRock'n'Roller."
Hosted by Carrie Kremer, the podcast takes listeners on a fascinating ride as they meet fans, companions, critics, and, of course, Andreas Gabalier himself. The series promises to delve into Gabalier’s musical inspirations, his cultural identity, controversies, and his impact on modern folk and pop music.
Gabalier, who began his career by submitting self-recorded songs to a radio station in 2008, has since released seven successful studio albums and played countless concerts and tours. In 2022, he reached a career milestone with a concert in Munich that attracted over 100,000 fans, making him the Austrian artist with the most tickets sold for a single event.
However, Gabalier's persona, music, and lyrics have been a topic of debate since his early musical beginnings. His fans celebrate him for his traditional, conservative worldview and gender roles, while many critics accuse him of right-wing populism, homophobia, and backward messages.
In an exclusive interview, Andreas Gabalier states, "One doesn't have to please everyone!" This sentiment is likely to be a recurring theme in the podcast, as it seeks to explore both perspectives on the controversial figure.
The podcast will be available on ARD Audiothek and everywhere else podcasts are found, including the ARD Audiothek website Schlagerwelt. If you're interested in more details about the podcast or the interview, you can find it on the official podcast platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or the BR Rundfunk app.
Whether you're a fan or a critic, "Gabalier - Behind the Leather Pants" promises to offer an insightful and engaging look into the life and career of one of Austria's most polarising figures.
Celebrities and entertainment are intertwined as the podcast series "Gabalier - Behind the Leather Pants" delves into the life of Andreas Gabalier, a polarizing figure in Austrian music, known for his folk and pop melodies. The podcast will cover controversies surrounding his music and persona, offering a glimpse into the cultural identity and musical inspirations of this controversial figure.
