Pinching Allowed – Michael Schulte’s Path to Becoming a Stage Professional

A Shy Talent Discovers the Stage – For a long time, Michael Schulte dreamed of becoming a professional footballer. He trained intensively for 12 years, but the path to the top seemed far too steep. Gradually, his second passion, music, came to the forefront. “I’ve been singing and playing the guitar since I was five years old,” the singer-songwriter shares. “But I was very shy and never imagined that I’d one day stand on a big stage.”

At 16, Schulte was one of the first in Germany to upload cover versions of popular songs to YouTube. “What worked in my favour was that I could sing at home by myself rather than directly in front of an audience,” he explains. Step by step, a fanbase began to grow, and casting shows took notice of him. His videos accumulated over 50 million views. However, it wasn’t until he was 21 that the Schleswig-Holstein native stepped out of his comfort zone to compete in the first season of The Voice of Germany—with great success, securing third place. Rea Garvey became his mentor, Max Giesinger one of his closest friends, and both became his colleagues on stage. With the experience of performing on television in front of millions and playing live concerts, Schulte’s confidence grew: “This might actually work as a career.”

Overwhelming Moments – Looking back, the 34-year-old says, “The Voice was an incredible experience, almost surreal.” Even more overwhelming, however, was the response to his participation in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon. His song, You Let Me Walk Alone, dedicated to his late father, earned him fourth place for Germany. “That was my big breakthrough. I still have to pinch myself sometimes to believe I dared to do all that—and luckily, it all turned out so well.” Over the years, Schulte’s musical style has evolved. Starting with purely acoustic songs, his music became poppier, then folkier, and now incorporates dance elements. “I do follow the mainstream and make radio-friendly music, but live, I also bring a bit of a rock edge. I just want to connect with as many people as possible.”

On his latest album, Remember Me, Michael Schulte shares many personal stories. Among the tracks is More To This Life, a duet with Max Giesinger.

Family Values and Exclusive Family Holidays – Schulte has dreamt of having a family since childhood. “I’m an extremely family-oriented person,” he emphasises. Having lost his own father at just 14, he treasures his role as a father to two sons: Luis, born in 2018, and Lenny, born in 2021. Together with his wife Katharina—whose wedding witness was Max Giesinger—the family now lives in the countryside after years in the city. “We’re really just village kids at heart,” Schulte says. Katharina runs her own speech therapy practice.

Before school commitments restrict their travel, the family has embraced the opportunity to explore the world. At just six months old, Luis accompanied them to New Zealand. South Africa is one of their favourite destinations for luxurious family holidays, while the Mediterranean is explored by camper. In winter, skiing is a shared passion, though Schulte only learned the skill five years ago, thanks to his wife. “At first, I spent more time falling than skiing down the mountain, but learning by doing worked again. Now I’m leaving everyone else behind,” he laughs. Time with family is a top priority for Schulte. “Of course, daily life can be stressful and challenging, but we really treasure our time together. It’s crazy how fast the kids grow up.”

Reflecting on his father’s unexpected passing in 2004, Schulte recalls it as a pivotal moment. “It was a tough time for me, my younger sister, my older brother, and my mum. You quickly take on new roles, more responsibilities, and are pushed toward adulthood. I’m grateful for the 14 years I had with him. I’ve often addressed that experience in my music—it’s part of my life and has shaped who I am today.”

A Wish to the Universe – What does Michael Schulte hope to pass on to his own children? Gratitude, humility, supporting others, not taking things for granted—and having the courage to be bold. These are values his own parents instilled in him. “They raised us well, but not too strictly. It wasn’t always easy, which is why I’ve always stayed grounded.” His wish to the universe for the future? “Honestly, my wish is for things to stay just as they are—for everything to continue going well for my family and my music. We feel a bit like we’ve been kissed by fortune, and I’m deeply grateful for that.”

Conclusion – A Fulfilled Life in Harmony with Family Time – Michael Schulte’s story is truly inspiring, showing that with passion and courage, dreams can become reality. Along the way, it’s essential to stay grounded despite success and to see family as an anchor.