Max Giesinger (born 3 October 1988) is a German singer‑songwriter and musician. He gained prominence after finishing sixth in the inaugural season of the reality TV competition Deutschland sucht den Superstar (DSDS) in 2008. Giesinger is best known for his pop‑rock and folk‑influenced songs, notably the hit single “80 Millionen,” which topped German charts in 2016.
Early life and education
Max Giesinger was born in Freiburg im Breisgau, West Germany. He grew up in Reutlingen, where he attended a Waldorf school. After completing his secondary education, Giesinger studied economics at the University of Stuttgart but left before graduating to pursue a music career.
Career
2008–2012: Early attempts and breakthrough
Giesinger auditioned for the first season of Deutschland sucht den Superstar (DSDS) in 2008 and reached the top ten, finishing in sixth place. Following the show, he released the EP Der Anfang (2009), which received limited commercial attention. He subsequently worked as a street musician and performed in local venues while writing material for a full-length album.
2013–2015: Debut album and rising popularity
In 2013, Giesinger signed with BMG Rights Management and released his debut studio album, Laufen lernen (2015). The record featured singles such as “Wenn sie tanzt” and “Einmal am Tag.” While the album achieved moderate chart success, it established Giesinger as a rising artist within the German pop scene.
2016–present: Mainstream success
Giesinger’s second studio album, Der Junge, der rennt (2016), produced the single “80 Millionen,” which peaked at number one on the German Singles Chart and remained in the top ten for several weeks. The song’s lyrical content references the 2015 FIFA Confederations Cup, wherein the German national football team defeated Brazil, drawing on national pride and collective memory. The album reached number three on the German Albums Chart and was certified double‑platinum.
In 2018, Giesinger released his third studio album, Live Forever, which debuted at number one on the German Albums Chart. The lead singles “Wenn das die Welt ist” and “Gebraucht” consolidated his position as a leading contemporary pop artist in Germany. Subsequent releases include the EP Das wird nie wieder so, wie es ist (2020) and the studio album Abgelaufen (2022), both of which charted within the top ten in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
Musical style and influences
Giesinger’s music blends pop, rock, and folk elements, often featuring acoustic guitar arrangements and anthemic choruses. His lyrical themes frequently address everyday life, personal growth, and social observations. He has cited influences ranging from German singer‑songwriters such as Herbert Grönemeyer to international acts like The Beatles and Coldplay.
Discography (selected)
- Laufen lernen (2015) – debut studio album
- Der Junge, der rennt (2016) – includes “80 Millionen”
- Live Forever (2018) – reached #1 in Germany
- Abgelaufen (2022) – top‑ten placement in German‑speaking markets
Awards and recognition
- 2016: Echo Award nomination for “Best National Rock/Pop Artist” (unspecified outcome)
- 2017: 1Live Krone award for “Best Single” for “80 Millionen”
- 2019: Deutscher Musikautorenpreis (German Music Authors Award) in the “Pop” category
Personal life
Giesinger resides in Berlin. He is known for his active engagement with fans through social media platforms and often participates in charitable events, including benefit concerts for youth programs.
References
- Chart performance data from the Official German Charts (Offizielle Deutsche Charts).
- Album release information from BMG Rights Management press releases.
- Interview excerpts from Der Spiegel and FAZ concerning his musical influences.
This entry reflects verifiable public information up to June 2026.
