The ultimate Oktoberfest Playlist
The “biggest folk fest in the world” is expected to have an equally impressive playlist, and trust us; it’s one that does not disappoint.
The music of Oktoberfest is almost as important as enjoying some beers and delicious Bavarian food at their world-famous beer tents. It is what brings all those elements together into one incredible atmosphere.
1. The one you absolutely must know
Since 1912 when it made its debut in Oktoberfest, bands in each tent will play this song every 15 to 20 minutes, and you must partake in the ritual that follows.
We’re talking about, of course, Ein Prosit!
When the song begins, you stand up, grab your “Maß” (that large beer mug), sing along and sway with your fellow tablemates, toast, and drink!
Here are the lyrics:
Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der Gemütlichkeit
Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der Gemütlichkeit.
OANS! ZWOA! DREI! G’SUFFA!
The words “ein prosit” mean “a toast,” so you can understand why such merriment when the song plays during this event.
The word “Gemütlichkeit” will give you further insight into the importance of the tradition.
It’s one of those German words that don’t have a literal translation to English. It means “to convey the idea of a state or feeling of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer.”
2. The classics you’re going to hear everywhere you go
Some of these classics are actually relatively recent, a surprising fact considering the traditional nature of these festivities.
There’s “Atemlos durch die Nacht,” a pop song by German schlager superstar Helene Fischer. The tune was released in 2013 and quickly became one of Germany’s top hits of all time!
Then there’s the 2008 “Fliegerlied (So ein Schöner Tag)” by the band Donikkl. The song’s appeal is in how incredibly catchy it is. So much so the year after Tim Toupe’s version of it hit the German top 10!
https://youtu.be/Z7_cxljH7Rs
“Brenna tuats guat” seems like an awkward choice for such a happy occasion considering it’s about greed and corruption, but it somehow works with the festival-goers.
“Sierra Madre” and its sentimental tone makes it the perfect tune towards the end of the festival. Don’t let the Spanish title fool you, this song is as German as it comes!
3. The unexpected hits (but totally work)
Well, Oktoberfest is, after all, a party, so you are bound to hear some popular rock and pop anthems.
Songs such as “Highway to Hell” by ACDC, “We Will Rock You” by Queen, and “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynrd Skynrd are staples at the festival.
And don’t be surprised when you hear a very German tuba playing the Village People’s ultimate party song, “YMCA.”
There are 3 songs worth mentioning that appear to be huge staples at Oktoberfest.
Nena’s 1980’s pop hit “99 Luftballons” is not very surprising considering this is probably the most famous German music export. Whenever German music plays, this song will likely make it to the list!
“Hey Baby” was a 1961 hit by Bruce Channel, but it is the 2000 remix by Austrian artist DJ Ötzi that makes the cut. Oktoberfest goers will go wild and sing in unison when this one plays.
We’re not sure exactly how many Germans have visited West Virginia. But for some reason, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver is a huge hit with the Oktoberfest crowd!
And there you have it! Which songs are your favorite?
Get a first-hand experience when you join us on our next Oktoberfest trip!
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