The record-breaking success of the Eurodisco duo Modern Talking began when the track "You're My Heart, You're My Soul" reached the top of charts across thirty-five nations in 1985. This breakthrough transformed Bernd Weidung, professionally known as Thomas Anders, from an aspiring German Schlager artist into a global performer associated with selling over 120 million records throughout his career.
Early Musical Foundations
Born in 1963 in Münstermaifeld, Thomas Anders pursued music from childhood. He participated in singing competitions and performed in local music halls in Koblenz. By 1982, he completed his Abitur at the Eichendorff-Gymnasium before enrolling at the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz. He studied musicology, German studies, and publishing for five semesters, initially aiming for a career in music journalism while simultaneously recording as a solo singer.
Schlager Aspirations
During his formative years, Anders attempted to build a reputation within the German Schlager genre. In 1979, he competed in a Radio Luxembourg contest before signing his first contract with CBS. Between 1980 and 1982, he released unsuccessful singles including "Judy" and "Du weinst um ihn." After joining Hansa Records, he continued this pursuit by releasing cover versions of English songs in German, collaborating with producer Dieter Bohlen on tracks like "Was macht das schon?" None of these early efforts achieved commercial traction.
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In 1983, Anders and Bohlen formed the Eurodisco duo Modern Talking. Opting for English lyrics and catchy, rhythmic pop melodies, they achieved an overnight sensation following the television broadcast of their hit single on Formel Eins. The duo released a series of successful songs such as "Cheri, Cheri Lady" and "Brother Louie" before their first dissolution in 1987. They reunited in 1998, producing additional hits like "TV Makes the Superstar," before permanently parting ways in 2003.
Solo Career and International Reach
Following the various splits of Modern Talking, Anders focused on solo projects. While his 1990s albums largely struggled to chart, his international presence remained strong, particularly in Eastern Europe. His 1994 Spanish-language album, Barcos de Cristal, reached number one in Argentina. Later, his 2010 album Strong achieved Platinum status in Russia, a market where he remains the best-selling foreign artist. He continues to perform, including notable annual appearances in Poland and various stadium tours.
Fast facts
- Born: 1963, Münstermaifeld, Germany
- Stage Name: Thomas Anders
- Original Name: Bernd Weidung
- Member of: Modern Talking
- University: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
- Notable Solo Album: Barcos de Cristal (1994)
- Significant Market: Russia
- Collaborator: Dieter Bohlen
Questions readers ask
What was Thomas Anders' first professional stage name?
During his childhood, he performed as Bernie von der Mosel.
Did Thomas Anders finish his university education?
No, he dropped out of Johannes Gutenberg University after five semesters to focus on his music career.
How many records did Modern Talking sell?
The duo sold approximately 120 million records worldwide during their two periods of activity.
Achievements
- Instruments: keyboard instrument, piano and voice
- Genres: pop music, Europop and Eurodisco
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