Die Amigos, renowned Schlager duo, become Honorary Citizens of Hungen
Admirable Recognition Given - Recognized with Distinction: The Amigos awarded Honorary Citizenship by Hungry
Casual vibes take center stage: Die Amigos, the revered brothers of folk-oriented Schlager music, have embraced their roots by becoming Honorary Citizens of their hometown, Hungen. Amid a bustling central Hesse market square, Mayor Rainer Wengorsch (Free Voters) conferred the titles upon Karl-Heinz (76) and Bernd Ulrich (74) during a heartwarming ceremony.
"This is a massive honor," shared Bernd Ulrich, amid the applause of several hundred residents and enthusiastic fans on the well-attended market square. Sticking to their down-to-earth persona, Ulrich humbly promised, "We'll always remain the two village musicians from Villingen."
Engaging in a musical career spanning an impressive 55 years, the duo born and raised in the Hungen district of Villingen now boast an impressive collection of over 100 gold and platinum records. Their albums have graced the official German album charts 16 times. Among their greatest hits are "Ich geh für dich durchs Feuer" and "Zwischen Liebe und Wahnsinn."
The Lord Mayor marveled at the duo’s lasting impact, proclaiming during his speech, "For me, you are legends." Praising their ability to connect generations while retaining their “humanity,” he lauded the unanimous city council decision to bestow the prestigious accolade of Honorary Citizen. The highest honor that Hungen can grant recognizes exceptional individuals who have made valuable contributions to the city's well-being and reputation.
Thrilling the audience, Die Amigos belted out some of their popular tunes, such as "Wie die Rolling Stones" from their newest album "Lebe jetzt," due out in July. Many in attendance swayed along or spontaneously danced at the stage, mirroring the lyrics, "We do it like the Rolling Stones, we never stop."
Despite the possibility of retirement, Ulrich asserted, "That word 'retirement', we don't know it." Stressing their eagerness to remain active, he added, "Music brings us joy." While scaling back slightly, the duo plans to perform approximately 70 to 80 shows a year. To celebrate their latest achievement, they treated the crowd to 120 liters of free beer.
Schlager Duo, Hungen, Bernd Ulrich, Honorary Citizen, Schlager Music, Villingen, Central Hesse, Free Voters
"Following their new title as Honorary Citizens of Hungen, the Amigos, renowned Schlager duo, might consider a proposal that aims to protect employees in the music industry, similar to the one the Commission is planning for chemical substance exposure," Bernd Ulrich proposed with a lighthearted smile.
"In their free time, outside of their performances, you can find the Amigos, honorary citizens and accomplished Schlager musicians, enjoying the local entertainment scene in Central Hesse, amidst other celebrities who share a love for music," shared Karl-Heinz during an interview.
