Hubert von Goisern: The Alpine Rock Pioneer
Hubert von Goisern is an Austrian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who revolutionized the perception of traditional Alpine folk music. Hailing from the mountain town of Goisern, he fused regional sounds with rock, pop, and world music, creating a dynamic new genre that achieved massive commercial success across German-speaking Europe.
Early career
Born Hubert Achleitner in 1952, he adopted his stage name from his hometown. After studying art and traveling extensively through Africa and Asia, he returned to Austria with a broadened musical perspective. His 1988 debut album, Der Würmsee, with the band Original Naabtal Duo, offered a hint of his unconventional approach to folk.
Breakthrough
His true breakthrough came in 1992 with the formation of the Hubert von Goisern & die Alpinkatzen band and the release of the album Aufgeigen stått niederschiassen. The lead single, Koa Hiatamadl, became an unexpected smash hit, propelling the album to multi-platinum status in Austria and spending over two years on the charts. This success established his label, BMG Ariola, as a major player in the new Alpine rock scene.
Key tracks
Koa Hiatamadl — This electrified folk song was a nationwide phenomenon and remains his signature anthem.
Heast as nit — A powerful rock ballad that showcased the depth and social commentary in his songwriting.
Brenna tuats guat — A later hit from 2008 that returned him to the top of the Austrian singles chart for weeks.
Weit, weit weg — A prime example of his world music influences, featuring collaborations with international artists.
Following this peak, von Goisern continued to explore, embarking on ambitious projects like the "Linz Europa Tour" boat journey along European rivers, resulting in the album Iwasig. He has collaborated with artists across genres, from traditional Mongolian musicians to the pop singer Christina Stürmer. His 2011 album EntwederUndOder entered the Austrian charts at number two, proving his enduring relevance.
Fans of Hubert von Goisern's innovative blend often appreciate the work of similar Austrian acts. Attwenger also deconstructs folk music with drum and bass elements. Die Zillertaler represent a more mainstream, commercially successful side of modernized Alpine music. Hubert Soyka explores a similar roots-rock fusion with poignant lyrical themes.
Hubert von Goisern's distinctive sound is a staple on Austrian and German radio, particularly on public broadcasters' folk and pop programs, adult contemporary FM stations, and specialized world music radio streams. His hits receive regular airplay, ensuring his music reaches both long-time fans and new listeners daily.
The pioneering Alpine rock of Hubert von Goisern can be heard on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his vast catalog, from early hits to recent explorations, through the diverse selection of radio stations available on onairium.com.
