Echo Award (Germany) – Rock/Alternative National (2016)
Language: German
Frei.Wild is an Italian rock band that comes from the town of Brixen in South Tyrol, a northern region of Italy known for its strong German-speaking heritage. The band’s members belong to the German-speaking population of South Tyrol, which has a clear influence on their identity and musical expression. Reflecting their cultural background, Frei.Wild primarily performs songs in German, blending rock music with themes and perspectives rooted in their regional history, language, and experiences.
Philipp Burger
Role: Lead Vocalist, Guitarist
Birth Date: 16 June 1987
Birthplace: Brixen, South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Philipp Burger is the founding member and frontman of Frei.Wild. He formed the band in 2001 after previously being part of a punk rock group. As the primary songwriter and lyricist, Burger shaped Frei.Wild’s musical direction, blending hard rock with emotional and socially reflective lyrics. Under his leadership, the band gained massive popularity in German-speaking countries, achieving multiple chart-topping albums and sold-out tours. He remains the creative backbone of Frei.Wild.
Christian Forer
Role: Drummer
Birth Date: 11 September 1983
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Christian Forer joined Frei.Wild as the drummer and has been a key part of the band’s powerful live sound. His energetic drumming style contributes heavily to the band’s intense and anthemic performances. Over the years, he has toured extensively across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, helping Frei.Wild establish themselves as a major live rock act.
Jochen Gargitter
Role: Bassist
Birth Date: 26 January 1984
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Jochen Gargitter handles bass duties for Frei.Wild, providing the solid rhythmic foundation of the band’s music. His tight basslines support both the melodic and heavy elements of Frei.Wild’s sound. He has been part of the band’s growth from underground recognition to mainstream rock success.
Fabián “Fabs” Gassner
Role: Guitarist
Birth Date: 22 May 1982
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Fabián Gassner joined Frei. Wild as a guitarist, adding depth and texture to their guitar-driven sound. Known for strong riffs and melodic solos, he plays an important role in shaping the band’s studio recordings and live performances. His contribution strengthened Frei.Wild’s signature Deutschrock style.
Events
About Artist
Frei.Wild is an Italian rock band that comes from the town of Brixen in South Tyrol, a northern region of Italy known for its strong German-speaking heritage. The band’s members belong to the German-speaking population of South Tyrol, which has a clear influence on their identity and musical expression. Reflecting their cultural background, Frei.Wild primarily performs songs in German, blending rock music with themes and perspectives rooted in their regional history, language, and experiences.
Philipp Burger
Role: Lead Vocalist, Guitarist
Birth Date: 16 June 1987
Birthplace: Brixen, South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Philipp Burger is the founding member and frontman of Frei.Wild. He formed the band in 2001 after previously being part of a punk rock group. As the primary songwriter and lyricist, Burger shaped Frei.Wild’s musical direction, blending hard rock with emotional and socially reflective lyrics. Under his leadership, the band gained massive popularity in German-speaking countries, achieving multiple chart-topping albums and sold-out tours. He remains the creative backbone of Frei.Wild.
Christian Forer
Role: Drummer
Birth Date: 11 September 1983
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Christian Forer joined Frei.Wild as the drummer and has been a key part of the band’s powerful live sound. His energetic drumming style contributes heavily to the band’s intense and anthemic performances. Over the years, he has toured extensively across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, helping Frei.Wild establish themselves as a major live rock act.
Jochen Gargitter
Role: Bassist
Birth Date: 26 January 1984
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Jochen Gargitter handles bass duties for Frei.Wild, providing the solid rhythmic foundation of the band’s music. His tight basslines support both the melodic and heavy elements of Frei.Wild’s sound. He has been part of the band’s growth from underground recognition to mainstream rock success.
Fabián “Fabs” Gassner
Role: Guitarist
Birth Date: 22 May 1982
Birthplace: South Tyrol, Italy
Professional Journey:
Fabián Gassner joined Frei. Wild as a guitarist, adding depth and texture to their guitar-driven sound. Known for strong riffs and melodic solos, he plays an important role in shaping the band’s studio recordings and live performances. His contribution strengthened Frei.Wild’s signature Deutschrock style.
