“RONZHEIMER.” has just been awarded the BAMBI 2025 in the “Culture” category. Paul Ronzheimer impressively demonstrates how podcasts as a cultural medium can inspire, inform and unite people.
Roland Kaiser is the grand seigneur of German Schlager. With over 100 million records sold, timeless hits and a comeback that is second to none, he has been shaping the German music landscape for more than five decades, always remaining true to himself while keeping his finger on the pulse of the times. Tonight, Hubert Burda Media presented Roland Kaiser with the BAMBI 2025 Award in the “Lifetime Achievement” category, recognizing his artistic consistency, his close bond with his audience, and his enduring social commitment – all carried by a charisma that unites generations.
"From a car salesman in Berlin's working-class district of Wedding to the Olympus of German Schlager, which he has dominated for half a century – Roland Kaiser's career is unique. His music connects generations, and Kaiser's catchy lyrics contain clear messages. Love, friendship, respect, and confidence in difficult times – time and again, the singer is also a voice for humanity and togetherness. And a strong voice that also advocates for social justice and political engagement outside of music."
Stefan Kobus, editor-in-chief of Superillu and member of the BAMBI jury
As one of Germany's most influential voices, Roland Kaiser stands for values such as humanity, respect and solidarity – values that are more important than ever in our society. Roland Kaiser's songs convey clear messages: of love, hope and solidarity. With hits such as “Santa Maria”, “Dich zu lieben” and “Warum hast du nicht nein gesagt”, he has thrilled millions and repeatedly proven that music is a universal language that brings people together.
This is also true of “Kaisermania”, which has been held annually in Dresden since 2003 and is a prime example of the unifying power of his art. Every year, tens of thousands of fans from all over Germany flock to the banks of the Elbe to celebrate with Roland Kaiser. The event has long since achieved cult status and is also a symbol of solidarity and the overcoming of boundaries between East and West. Roland Kaiser was awarded the City of Dresden’s Medal of Honour for his special connection to Dresden.
Away from the limelight, Roland Kaiser uses his popularity to promote important causes such as education, hope and solidarity. Roland Kaiser has received several awards for his commitment, including the Order of Merit of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (2012) and the Federal Cross of Merit (2016). With his autobiography “Atempause” (2011), he not only told his personal story, but also set an example – of strength, courage and the power of new beginnings. Roland Kaiser shows us that true greatness is not only found on stage but also in helping others.
The BAMBI Awards ceremony is being broadcast live from Bavaria Studios – free on Prime Video for the first time. All Amazon customers are able to stream BAMBI without a Prime membership.
Since 1948, BAMBI has honoured personalities who touch Germany, achieve something special, and serve as role models. As a journalistic platform, BAMBI takes responsibility for society and makes the messages of the award winners visible – emotionally, profoundly, and digitally. This year, the award is being presented in more than 12 categories.
For the third time in a row, the BAMBI awards ceremony is taking place in Munich, sponsored by the Bavarian State Chancellery. Streaming service Prime Video is once again broadcasting the ceremony live as a media partner. As the official entertainment partner, the entertainment platform TikTok streamed the live broadcast from the red carpet. This year's official BAMBI partners are AIGNER, Chopard, Dr. Barbara Sturm, ELASTEN Trink-Kollagen, ELOTRANS reload, IhreApotheken.de, LLOYD, Schwarzkopf, and Yacht-Magazin. The ceremony is also supported by partners ANDECHSER NATUR, Augustiner-Bräu, Champagne Laurent-Perrier, Degussa, EDEKA, ipuro, JUVIA, L'Osteria, Nespresso, Staatl. Fachingen, and Südliche Weinstraße (Pfalz).
