Celebrating 80 Years of Katja Ebstein: The Political Schlager Icon

Katja Ebstein, the renowned Berlin singer, is set to celebrate her 80th birthday this Sunday. Known for her engaging Schlager hits, Ebstein has made an indelible mark not only in the music industry but also in the political sphere.

Born on 9 July 1945 as Karin Witkiewicz near Breslau, she and her family fled to Berlin shortly after her birth. They settled in Reinickendorf, where Ebstein's early life was shaped by modest circumstances and a strong sense of community. Her family, particularly her mother, played a significant role in fostering her musical talents, while her father instilled in her a profound sense of justice.

Despite her aspirations to study art, financial constraints led her to pursue a career in music. She began her journey working as a volunteer at the Sender Freies Berlin (SFB) and simultaneously performed as a background singer in various jazz bars across the city. It was here that she caught the attention of the US record label Liberty, which paved the way for her breakthrough.

Ebstein's rise to fame came when she represented Germany at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1970, securing a third-place finish with her song "Wunder gibt es immer wieder." She repeated this success in 1971 and 1980 with her performances of "Diese Welt" and "Theater," respectively.

Throughout her career, Ebstein has released more than 30 albums, exploring genres beyond Schlager, including chanson and pop. She has also made notable appearances on stage, in musicals, and on television, including her participation in the RTL dance competition "Let's Dance," where she reached the finals at the age of 62.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Ebstein has remained politically active. She was involved in social causes from a young age, protesting against nuclear power, the Vietnam War, and the construction of the Berlin Wall. In 2004, she established the Katja Ebstein Foundation, which focuses on supporting children in need. Her contributions to society earned her the Federal Cross of Merit from then-President Horst Köhler in 2008.

Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her husband, television director Klaus Überall, to cancer in 2008, Ebstein continues to find solace and inspiration in nature. She has expressed her ongoing desire to create and perform, recently releasing a new album with her first husband, Christian Bruhn. In April, she is set to present a new program titled "Berlin - trotz und alledem," featuring works by notable German authors and musicians.

As she approaches her 80th birthday, Katja Ebstein remains a vibrant figure, blending her passion for music with her commitment to social justice, proving that her journey is far from over. Her story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and creativity, embodying the spirit of a true artist.