Peter Maffay: The Gentle Rebel - How fatherhood changed his life

Peter Maffay: The Gentle Rebel - How fatherhood changed his life

Peter Maffay will celebrate his 75th birthday on May 29, 2025 and looks back on an eventful life. The well-known musician has decided to listen more than be loud. In an interview marking the special occasion, he explained: "I used to be loud. Now I prefer to listen." Maffay thus reflects a significant change in his attitude and way of life. In the 1980s he was the prototype of the non-conformist rock star, characterized by hard lyrics and an equally hard look. Looking back, he admitted that during this time he was “sometimes inedible” and lived between the tour bus, the studio and the motorcycle garage.

The Peter Maffay Foundation, founded in 2000, is another important chapter in his life. This foundation is dedicated to supporting traumatized children, with the main idea being to show these children that they are seen. The foundation's symbolic figure, Tabaluga, was originally created for children and conveys values ​​such as friendship, helpfulness and tolerance. With the current album “The world is wonderful!” Tabaluga focuses on protecting the environment and wants to convey the importance of nature to children and young people.

A life in transition

A personal milestone in Maffay's life was fatherhood. At the age of 69, he became the father of a daughter named Anouk, whom he has with his partner Hendrikje Balsmeyer. He describes fatherhood as life-changing and now starts his day by taking his daughter to kindergarten. This new role fills him with joy and contributes to his satisfaction. He feels more content today than ever before and has a clear understanding of who he is and what he no longer needs to be.

Although Maffay has become quieter in his manner, he still remains non-conformist and actively campaigns against right-wing extremism. He encourages young artists to take a stand and stand up for their values. His concerts are energetic and at the same time offer space for breaks and stories. This shows how Maffay has also evolved as an artist while staying true to his roots.

The voice of youth and nature

The Peter Maffay Foundation offers several facilities in rural areas. These locations are deliberately chosen because they offer a place of relaxation that is more accessible in nature than in urban areas. It is important to Maffay that children and young people develop an understanding of the importance of nature. You not only learn how healthy food is produced, but also that agriculture requires care. The aim of the foundation is to make young people understand nature and its protection and to offer them a meaningful connection.

Peter Maffay remains an extraordinary artist and person who impresses with his deep empathy and commitment to society. With his numerous projects, he has not only shaped the music scene, but has also made a lasting difference in the lives of many children. These developments show that change and growth are not just personal decisions, but can also have valuable social impacts.