DJ Ötzi was born on January 7, 1971 (Capricorn) in Sankt Johann/Tyrol. His real name is Gerhard Friedle. He grew up with foster parents and completed an apprenticeship as a chef. In 1995, his musical career began at a karaoke competition. In his home country, he first appeared as an entertainer, singer and DJ before finally getting jobs in Mallorca and Turkey. DJ Ötzi landed his first hit with the title "Anton aus Tirol", which became the best-selling single in Austria. Today the singer has sold more than 16 million CDs worldwide.
He has been married to Sonja Kien (44) since 2001, who is now his manager. They live in Salzburg with their daughter Lisa-Marie. In an interview with BILD der FRAU, DJ Ötzi talks about his difficult past – and how his wife has always supported him.
Interview with racquet star DJ Ötzi: Without his story, he would be different today
BILD der FRAU: Dear Gerry, you wrote your biography for your 50th birthday. According to plan?
DJ Ötzi: It was just about time, because so much has happened. I've been married to Sonja for 20 years and have been on stage for over 20 years. When I was 50, I wanted to review my life.
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And: What is your balance sheet?
Without my story, I wouldn't be DJ Ötzi today. The minus from back then is now a huge plus.
Sounds exciting. But did you celebrate the rounds big?
Sonja gave me something great: she asked all my colleagues, friends and companions to record a video message for me. We then watched these films for four hours. I had tears in my eyes.
Thank you mom for giving me life
You've had ups and downs. Your parents didn't want you, you had cancer, you were homeless. Why didn't that break you?
My wife always says I have a primal power within me. I am strong willed and have never stopped believing in myself.
You never met your mother. Is that still a wish?
I've been working through my whole life and I'd like to finish this aspect as well. I believe that she even lives near me. I used to be disappointed that she gave me up. I don't want to blame her anymore. She was very young when she had me. Today I would like to thank her for giving me life.
You are a father yourself, your daughter is 19 now. Do you worry if she goes to a party?
I have a lot of faith in her. Clearly: Lisa is much more reasonable than me. She is strict on herself and knows that alcohol and drugs are taboo. We talk openly about it.
My wife Sonja is my great love
You wrote two love songs for your wife Sonja on your new album...
Sonja and I are not just lovers, but also a team. The 20 years weren't easy, but Sonja always stood by me.
What do you love about her?
The way she welcomes me when I come home. She gives me a beautiful home, she takes care of our child, she is there for me day and night. I wouldn't be where I am today without Sonja. Sonja is my lottery win. She is my great love.
BOOK TIP: Gerry Friedle's book "DJ Ötzi – die Biografie" (Ecowin Verlag) is available for 22 euros. It was released on October 19, 2021.
CD TIP: You can also buy the album "Sei du selbst. Party 2.0" (Electrola) for 14 euros.
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With Gerry and Sonny it is clear: The two are a tight-knit team whose love for challenges grows. For some love has to grow, for others it should appear at first sight if possible. What is more common? That's how most relationships start!
The story of this couple is also really sweet: they have been married for 13 years and take their wife's wedding dress with them on all their trips so that they can take pictures.
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