Famous German folk song | That Japanese tune was actually a German folk song?!

Drunten im UnterlandGotthilf Fischer

Drunten im Unterland

The German folk song “Drunten im Unterland” is notable for its grand melody.

In Japan, it’s known under the titles “Morgenröte” or “Morgenrot,” and Japanese cover versions have been released under titles like “Bōkyō no Uta” (Song of Longing for Home) and “Waga Furusato” (My Hometown).

Morgenröte means “dawn glow,” and the song’s bright, uplifting melody perfectly evokes a morning scene—ideal for morning time.

Be sure to check it out.

Stein SongRudy Vallée

Stein Song (University of Maine)

The classic song “Stein Song,” which was also covered in Japan in the early Showa era.

In Japan, it’s familiar as a German folk song, but in fact it isn’t German folk at all—it’s a piece reimported from the United States.

That said, it’s also very popular in Germany, and today it’s a well-known pop song recognized by both children and adults.

With that in mind, we’ve picked it up this time.

Its Japanese title is “Kanpai no Uta” (Song of the Toast), and as the title suggests, it features a lively, cheerful melody.

Wenn ich ein Vöglein wärPeter Schreier

Wenn ich ein Vöglein wär’ (Remastered)

The folk song “Wenn ich ein Vöglein wär” has been beloved in Germany since very long ago.

While many German folk songs are gentle and warm, like lullabies for children, this piece features lyrics crafted for adults, portraying the feelings of someone yearning for a lover far away.

Its melody is calm, yet it carries a faint air of wistfulness, making it a perfect choice for quiet moments, such as before bedtime or upon waking.

Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin Zum SternFranzl Lang

Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin „Zum Stern”

German folk songs are not very popular in Japan.

Because of that, many people may have a rather vague image of what German folk music is like.

For those people, I recommend the song “Auf’m Tanzboden bei der Wirtin Zum Stern.” Several German folk songs are known in Japan as children’s songs, but this piece is different: it stands out for its more traditional, ethnic sound.

It even features yodel-like parts, so if you enjoy folk music, be sure to check it out.

JodelmedleyOesch’s die Dritten

Oesch’s die Dritten – Jodelmedley

Jodelmedley is a beloved piece in Germany.

It’s an extremely popular song there; while it isn’t a children’s song per se, it’s cherished by people of all ages, from kids to adults.

Many German folk songs brim with a cheerful, yodel-like atmosphere, and Jodelmedley is no exception—its melody is very catchy and upbeat.

It’s a German folk song the whole family can enjoy, so if you have children, be sure to check it out.

Hänschen kleinKinderlieder

Hänschen klein – Kinderlieder zum Mitsingen | Sing Kinderlieder

Among German folk songs, the beloved classic Hänschen klein is considered one of the oldest works and is cherished in Germany.

Not only is it popular there, but it is also very familiar in Japan.

Many of you may immediately recognize it when you hear it.

That’s right—this song is the original tune of the very popular Japanese children’s song Chōchō.

It might be interesting to compare the Japanese nursery rhyme version with the German folk song version and listen for the differences.

I steh auf VolksmusikZillertaler Haderlumpen

I steh auf Volksmusik

German folk songs all carry a cheerful atmosphere.

“I steh auf Volksmusik” is a track that fully showcases the distinctive character of German folk music and is widely loved as a popular song in Germany.

It has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own flair, but this time we’ve picked the Alpentrio Tyrol version, which features a modern arrangement.

If you enjoy music with a lively, upbeat feel, be sure to check it out.