Andreas Gabalier celebrates a musical premiere on Friday: On his first Christmas album "A Volks-Rock'n'Roll Christmas" he merges his typical folk rock'n'roll sound with Christmas sounds. On December 5th he will also present his own Christmas show for the first time. In an interview with the news agency spot on news, he reveals why he cannot replace Helene Fischer.
Do you have a favorite Christmas song?
Gabalier: "Driving Home For Christmas" because I've been on the road a lot in the last few years. After all the successes and the turbulent life, Christmas always means "Now off to mom" - home to the roots.
You interpret the Wham! classic "Last Christmas" together with Gregor Meyle. How did this come about?
Gabalier: I've known Gregor since "Sing mein Song" in 2014. He's a dear colleague who I absolutely love and suggested "Last Christmas" and said: "It can't be missing. Let's do something crazy with it." Then he came to Graz and we had two fun days.
The "Helene Fischer Show" has been canceled for this Christmas. On December 5th you are the protagonist of your own Christmas show on ORF for the first time. Do you hope to give Helene a bit of competition?
Gabalier: No. What Helene recorded for weeks every year is enormous and something completely different. We're making a song recording. It's a nice compliment to be considered a substitute for their show, but we're doing some sort of MTV Unplugged with Christmas carols.
What do you like most about the Christmas holidays?
Gabalier: I love our fondue on Christmas Eve and December 25th, which we enjoy in a family and family atmosphere in the mountains. Nobody has work with it and it's a social meal that lasts for hours. A freshly cooked meal usually means stress and is over quickly.
It's already your second Christmas without a woman by your side. Many people are depressed about the celebration of love when they are single. Is it the same for you?
Gabalier: Time will tell… No, I'm actually fine. I'm glad that we get along well. We respect each other when we see each other. The worst thing is when people who used to be a couple talk everything down. That wasn't the case at all, so everything is fine the way it is.
What would you like for 2021?
Gabalier: A bit of normality - and that I can finally go back on stage. That's my only wish. I just hope people aren't too intimidated by months of coverage. I'm afraid it will take a long time before people feel ready to go to concerts again.
