Höhner

Formed in Cologne in 1972, Höhner belong to the Kölschrock tradition, blending German popular song, schlager and pop with a strong anchoring in Rhineland carnival culture. The band’s name refers to the word for “hens” in the Cologne dialect. They first became known on local stages and at neighborhood festivals before establishing themselves long-term in the scene of dialect-based party music. Höhner build their identity around simple, collective choruses designed for sing-alongs, with lyrics addressing everyday life, attachment to the city and a characteristically Cologne sense of humour. From the 1980s the group broadened its audience beyond the region by incorporating more pop-rock elements while keeping the dialect as a central marker. Songs such as “Viva Colonia” and “Wenn nicht jetzt, wann dann?” put Höhner on major stages — from concert halls to stadiums — where the band developed a role as anthem-singers for sporting and festive events. Despite line-up changes and different lead singers, Höhner remain active in the studio and on stage, carrying out tours, recordings and regular appearances at the major events of the Cologne carnival, which remain at the heart of their artistic activity.