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{{short description|None}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2021}}
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[[Helloween]] are a German [[power metal]] band from [[Hamburg]]. Formed in 1984, the group was originally a quartet featuring [[Kai Hansen]] on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, [[Michael Weikath]] on lead guitar and backing vocals, [[Markus Grosskopf]] on bass and backing vocals, and [[Ingo Schwichtenberg]] on drums. The band's current lineup includes constant members Weikath and Grosskopf, alongside Hansen (who rejoined in 2016 after leaving in 1989), co-lead vocalists [[Michael Kiske]] (from 1986 to 1993, and since 2016) and [[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]] (since 1994), rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist [[Sascha Gerstner]] (since 2002), and drummer [[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]] (since 2005).
[[Helloween]] are a German [[power metal]] band from [[Hamburg]]. Formed in 1984, the group was originally a quartet featuring [[Kai Hansen]] on lead vocals and guitar, [[Michael Weikath]] on guitar and backing vocals, [[Markus Grosskopf]] on bass and backing vocals, and [[Ingo Schwichtenberg]] on drums. The band's current lineup includes constant members Weikath and Grosskopf, alongside Hansen (who rejoined in 2016 after leaving in 1989), co-lead vocalists [[Michael Kiske]] (from 1986 to 1993, and since 2016) and [[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]] (since 1994), rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist [[Sascha Gerstner]] (since 2002), and drummer [[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]] (since 2005).


==History==
== History ==
===1984–1994===
=== 1984–1994 ===
Helloween were formed in 1984 by [[Kai Hansen]], [[Michael Weikath]], [[Markus Grosskopf]] and [[Ingo Schwichtenberg]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/helloween-were-not-as-big-as-maiden-but-were-way-bigger-than-spinal-tap |title=Helloween: "We're not as big as Maiden, but we're way bigger than Spinal Tap" |last=Everley |first=Dave |work=[[Classic Rock (magazine)|Classic Rock]] |date=June 21, 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> The band signed with German heavy metal label [[Noise Records]] before the end of the year and released their [[Helloween (EP)|self-titled debut EP]] in April 1985.<ref name="ingo">{{cite news |url=http://www.metalforcesmagazine.com/site/news-helloween-former-drummer-ingo-schwichtenberg-dies-aged-29/ |title=Helloween: Former Drummer Ingo Schwichtenberg Dies Aged 29 |work=[[Metal Forces]] |date=March 8, 1995 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> After the group issued their debut full-length album ''[[Walls of Jericho (album)|Walls of Jericho]]'' later the same year, Hansen decided to step back from the role of lead vocalist to focus on his guitar playing. After a lengthy process of trying to find a replacement, in November the role was filled by [[Michael Kiske]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hardwiredmagazine.com/the-story-of-kai-hansen-part-1-heavy-metal-is-the-law/?lang=en |title=The Story of Kai Hansen, Part 1 – Heavy Metal is the Law |last=Ristić |first=Jovan |work=Hardwired |date=September 15, 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I|Keeper of the Seven Keys: Parts I]]'' and ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part II|II]]'' followed in 1987 and 1988, respectively, before Hansen left completely on New Year's Day 1989 due to "the ever-increasing stress of touring".<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Garza |first=Janiss |title=The Heavy Metals |magazine=[[Cashbox (magazine)|Cash Box]] |volume=52 |issue=39 |date=8 April 1989 |location=New York City, New York |publisher=Cash Box Publications |page=13 |url=https://www.americanradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Archive-Cash-Box-IDX/80s/1989/CB-1989-04-08-OCR-Page-0013.pdf |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref> He was quickly replaced by [[Roland Grapow]] and the band returned to touring.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Cooper |first=Mike |title=Music Now! |magazine=The Hard Report |issue=114 |date=3 February 1989 |location=Medford Lakes, New Jersey |publisher=Hard Report |page=35 |url=https://www.americanradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Hard-Report/1989/Hard-Report-1989-02-03.pdf |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref>
Helloween were formed in 1984 by [[Kai Hansen]], [[Michael Weikath]], [[Markus Grosskopf]] and [[Ingo Schwichtenberg]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/helloween-were-not-as-big-as-maiden-but-were-way-bigger-than-spinal-tap |title=Helloween: "We're not as big as Maiden, but we're way bigger than Spinal Tap" |last=Everley |first=Dave |work=[[Classic Rock (magazine)|Classic Rock]] |date=21 June 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> The band signed with German heavy metal label [[Noise Records]] before the end of the year and released their [[Helloween (EP)|self-titled debut EP]] in April 1985.<ref name="ingo">{{cite news |url=http://www.metalforcesmagazine.com/site/news-helloween-former-drummer-ingo-schwichtenberg-dies-aged-29/ |title=Helloween: Former Drummer Ingo Schwichtenberg Dies Aged 29 |work=[[Metal Forces]] |date=8 March 1995 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> After the group issued their debut full-length album ''[[Walls of Jericho (album)|Walls of Jericho]]'' later the same year, Hansen decided to step back from the role of lead vocalist to focus on his guitar playing. After a lengthy process of trying to find a replacement, in November the role was filled by [[Michael Kiske]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hardwiredmagazine.com/the-story-of-kai-hansen-part-1-heavy-metal-is-the-law/?lang=en |title=The Story of Kai Hansen, Part 1 – Heavy Metal is the Law |last=Ristić |first=Jovan |work=Hardwired |date=15 September 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I|Keeper of the Seven Keys: Parts I]]'' and ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part II|II]]'' followed in 1987 and 1988, respectively, before Hansen left completely on New Year's Day 1989 due to "the ever-increasing stress of touring".<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Garza |first=Janiss |title=The Heavy Metals |magazine=[[Cashbox (magazine)|Cash Box]] |volume=52 |issue=39 |date=8 April 1989 |location=New York City, New York |publisher=Cash Box Publications |page=13 |url=https://www.americanradiohistory.com/hd2/IDX-Business/Music/Archive-Cash-Box-IDX/80s/1989/CB-1989-04-08-OCR-Page-0013.pdf |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref> He was quickly replaced by [[Roland Grapow]] and the band returned to touring.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Cooper |first=Mike |title=Music Now! |magazine=The Hard Report |issue=114 |date=3 February 1989 |location=Medford Lakes, New Jersey |publisher=Hard Report |page=35 |url=https://www.americanradiohistory.com/Archive-All-Music/Hard-Report/1989/Hard-Report-1989-02-03.pdf |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref>


With new guitarist Roland Grapow, the band released two studio albums – ''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' in 1991 and ''[[Chameleon (Helloween album)|Chameleon]]'' in 1993 – before more lineup changes occurred. During the 1993 tour in promotion of ''Chameleon'', Schwichtenberg was fired due to drug addiction and mental health issues, with Riad "Ritchie" Abdel-Nabi taking his place for the rest of the shows.<ref name="ingo"/><ref name="1993tour">{{cite web |url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=88303 |title=Sunday Old School: Helloween |author=Diamond Oz. |publisher=Metal Underground |date=20 January 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> By the end of the year, Kiske had also been fired after growing tensions between the two members had led Weikath to refuse to work with the vocalist.<ref name="1993tour"/> Schwichtenberg would later commit suicide in 1995.<ref name="ingo"/>
With new guitarist Roland Grapow, the band released two studio albums – ''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' in 1991 and ''[[Chameleon (Helloween album)|Chameleon]]'' in 1993 – before more lineup changes occurred. During the 1993 tour in promotion of ''Chameleon'', Schwichtenberg was fired due to drug addiction and mental health issues, with Riad "Ritchie" Abdel-Nabi taking his place for the rest of the shows.<ref name="ingo" /><ref name="1993tour">{{cite web |url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=88303 |title=Sunday Old School: Helloween |author=Diamond Oz. |publisher=Metal Underground |date=20 January 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> By the end of the year, Kiske had also been fired after growing tensions between the two members had led Weikath to refuse to work with the vocalist.<ref name="1993tour" /> Schwichtenberg would later commit suicide in 1995.<ref name="ingo" />


===1994–2003===
=== 1994–2003 ===
After firing two members in late 1993, Helloween returned early the following year with new vocalist [[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]] and drummer [[Uli Kusch|Ulrich "Uli" Kusch]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Phillips |first1=William |last2=Cogan |first2=Brian |title=Encyclopedia of Heavy Metal Music |date=20 March 2009 |location=Santa Barbara, California |publisher=[[ABC-CLIO]] |isbn=978-0313348013 |page=113 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=52hFCQAAQBAJ&pg=PA113&lpg=PA113 |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref> This lineup remained stable for several years, issuing a string of commercially successful albums.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/helloween-mn0000957340/biography |title=Helloween: Biography & History |last=Rivadavia |first=Eduardo |publisher=[[AllMusic]] |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> However, in August 2001 it was announced that both Kusch and guitarist [[Roland Grapow]] had parted ways with Helloween.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-aug-21-2001/ |title=Archive News Aug 21, 2001 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=21 August 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> In a statement issued the day after the official announcement, the dismissals were credited to "differences in priority", with a spokesman for the band adding that "It was felt Roland and Uli were paying too much time and attention to their solo projects. After a very successful tour behind ''[[The Dark Ride]]'' album Michael, Markus and Andi felt quite rightly that the focus of Helloween members must be 100% on Helloween."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-aug-23-2001/ |title=Archive News Aug 23, 2001 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=23 August 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>
After firing two members in late 1993, Helloween returned early the following year with new vocalist [[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]] and drummer [[Uli Kusch|Ulrich "Uli" Kusch]].<ref>{{cite book |last1=Phillips |first1=William |last2=Cogan |first2=Brian |title=Encyclopedia of Heavy Metal Music |date=20 March 2009 |location=Santa Barbara, California |publisher=[[ABC-CLIO]] |isbn=978-0-313-34801-3 |page=113 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=52hFCQAAQBAJ&pg=PA113 |access-date=11 May 2020 }}</ref> This lineup remained stable for several years, issuing a string of commercially successful albums.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/helloween-mn0000957340/biography |title=Helloween: Biography & History |last=Rivadavia |first=Eduardo |publisher=[[AllMusic]] |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> However, in August 2001 it was announced that both Kusch and guitarist [[Roland Grapow]] had parted ways with Helloween.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-aug-21-2001/ |title=Archive News Aug 21, 2001 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=21 August 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> In a statement issued the day after the official announcement, the dismissals were credited to "differences in priority", with a spokesman for the band adding that "It was felt Roland and Uli were paying too much time and attention to their solo projects. After a very successful tour behind ''[[The Dark Ride]]'' album Michael, Markus and Andi felt quite rightly that the focus of Helloween members must be 100% on Helloween."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-aug-23-2001/ |title=Archive News Aug 23, 2001 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=23 August 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>


In early September, Kusch's replacement was announced as former [[Metalium]] drummer [[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-sep-10-2001-1/ |title=Archive News Sep 10, 2001 - update 1 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=10 September 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Helloween remained without a second guitarist until August 2002, when it was announced that [[Sascha Gerstner]], who had left [[Freedom Call]] a year earlier, had joined the band.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-announce-addition-of-ex-freedom-call-guitarist/ |title=Helloween Announce Addition Of Ex-Freedom Call Guitarist |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=22 August 2002 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Recording subsequently began for the group's next album, however Cross was forced to sit out after contracting [[Infectious mononucleosis|mononucleosis]], with [[Mikkey Dee]] of [[Motörhead]] taking his place in the studio.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/mot-rhead-drummer-to-guest-on-new-helloween-cd/ |title=Motörhead Drummer To Guest On New Helloween CD |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=2 December 2002 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> In February 2003, Cross was officially replaced by former [[U.D.O.]] and [[Accept (band)|Accept]] drummer [[Stefan Schwarzmann]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-name-cd-confirm-new-drummer/ |title=Helloween Name CD, Confirm New Drummer |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=13 February 2003 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>
In early September, Kusch's replacement was announced as former [[Metalium]] drummer [[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/archive-news-sep-10-2001-1/ |title=Archive News Sep 10, 2001 – update 1 |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=10 September 2001 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Helloween remained without a second guitarist until August 2002, when it was announced that [[Sascha Gerstner]], who had left [[Freedom Call]] a year earlier, had joined the band.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-announce-addition-of-ex-freedom-call-guitarist/ |title=Helloween Announce Addition Of Ex-Freedom Call Guitarist |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=22 August 2002 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Recording subsequently began for the group's next album, however Cross was forced to sit out after contracting [[Infectious mononucleosis|mononucleosis]], with [[Mikkey Dee]] of [[Motörhead]] taking his place in the studio.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/mot-rhead-drummer-to-guest-on-new-helloween-cd/ |title=Motörhead Drummer To Guest On New Helloween CD |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=2 December 2002 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> In February 2003, Cross was officially replaced by former [[U.D.O.]] and [[Accept (band)|Accept]] drummer [[Stefan Schwarzmann]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-name-cd-confirm-new-drummer/ |title=Helloween Name CD, Confirm New Drummer |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=13 February 2003 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>


===Since 2003===
=== Since 2003 ===
Within two years of joining, drummer [[Stefan Schwarzmann]] had left Helloween, with [[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]] taking his place in February 2005.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-part-ways-with-drummer-announce-replacement/ |title=Helloween Part Ways With Drummer, Announce Replacement |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=11 February 2005 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> The lineup remained stable for more than ten years, before it was announced in November 2016 that founding member [[Kai Hansen]] and former vocalist [[Michael Kiske]] would be returning to Helloween for the Pumpkins United World Tour starting the following year.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-to-be-rejoined-by-michael-kiske-kai-hansen-for-pumpkins-united-world-tour/ |title=Helloween To Be Rejoined By Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen For 'Pumpkins United' World Tour |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=14 November 2016 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> At the start of the tour, the newly expanded group released the single "Pumpkins United", featuring Kiske, Hansen and continuing vocalist [[Andi Deris]] on vocals.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/listen-to-audio-sample-of-helloweens-first-new-song-featuring-michael-kiske-kai-hansen/ |title=Listen To Audio Sample Of Helloween's First New Song Featuring Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=12 October 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Following the touring cycle, the seven-piece incarnation of Helloween remained in place, with a new studio album slated for release in 2020.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-feat-kiske-hansen-concert-cd-dvd-to-arrive-in-early-2019-new-studio-album-due-in-2020/ |title=Helloween Feat. Kiske, Hansen: Concert CD, DVD To Arrive In Early 2019; New Studio Album Due For 2020, though due to other matters, it was postponed until summer 2021. |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=21 August 2018 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>
Within two years of joining, drummer [[Stefan Schwarzmann]] had left Helloween, with [[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]] taking his place in February 2005.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-part-ways-with-drummer-announce-replacement/ |title=Helloween Part Ways With Drummer, Announce Replacement |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=11 February 2005 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> The lineup remained stable for more than ten years, before it was announced in November 2016 that founding member [[Kai Hansen]] and former vocalist [[Michael Kiske]] would be returning to Helloween for the Pumpkins United World Tour starting the following year.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-to-be-rejoined-by-michael-kiske-kai-hansen-for-pumpkins-united-world-tour/ |title=Helloween To Be Rejoined By Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen For 'Pumpkins United' World Tour |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=14 November 2016 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> At the start of the tour, the newly expanded group released the single "Pumpkins United", featuring Kiske, Hansen and continuing vocalist [[Andi Deris]] on vocals.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/listen-to-audio-sample-of-helloweens-first-new-song-featuring-michael-kiske-kai-hansen/ |title=Listen To Audio Sample Of Helloween's First New Song Featuring Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=12 October 2017 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref> Following the touring cycle, the seven-piece incarnation of Helloween remained in place, for the 2021 studio album ''[[Helloween (album)|Helloween]]''.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/helloween-feat-kiske-hansen-concert-cd-dvd-to-arrive-in-early-2019-new-studio-album-due-in-2020/ |title=Helloween Feat. Kiske, Hansen: Concert CD, DVD To Arrive In Early 2019; New Studio Album Due For 2020, though due to other matters, it was postponed until summer 2021. |publisher=[[Blabbermouth.net]] |date=21 August 2018 |accessdate=11 May 2020 }}</ref>


==Official members==
== Official members ==
===Current===
=== Current ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
|-
|-
Line 33: Line 36:
!Release contributions
!Release contributions
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-3.jpg |bSize=525 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=22 |oLeft=195 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-3.jpg |bSize=525 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=22 |oLeft=195}}
|[[Michael Weikath]]
|[[Michael Weikath]]
|rowspan="2"|1984–present
|rowspan="2"|1984–present
|{{hlist|lead and rhythm guitars|backing vocals}}
|{{hlist|guitars|backing vocals}}
|rowspan="2"|all [[Helloween discography|Helloween releases]]
|rowspan="2"|all [[Helloween discography|Helloween releases]]
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Markus Grosskopf, Michael Kiske-Helloween by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=800 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=82 |oLeft=270 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Markus Grosskopf, Michael Kiske-Helloween by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=800 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=82 |oLeft=270}}
|[[Markus Grosskopf]]
|[[Markus Grosskopf]]
|{{hlist|bass|backing vocals}}
|{{hlist|bass|backing vocals}}
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween-Kai Hansen by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=650 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=40 |oLeft=328 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween-Kai Hansen by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=650 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=40 |oLeft=328}}
|[[Kai Hansen]]
|[[Kai Hansen]]
|{{hlist|1984–1989|2016–present}}
|{{hlist|1984–1989|2016–present}}
|{{hlist|rhythm and lead guitars|vocals {{small|(lead 1984–86, backing 1986–89, co-lead since 2016)}}}}
|{{hlist|guitars|lead and backing vocals}}
|{{hlist|all Helloween releases from ''[[Helloween (EP)|Helloween]]'' (1985) to ''[[Live in the U.K.]]'' (1989)|''[[United Alive in Madrid]]'' (2019)|''[[Helloween (Helloween album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)}}
|{{hlist|all Helloween releases from ''[[Helloween (EP)|Helloween]]'' (1985) to ''[[Live in the U.K.]]'' (1989)|''[[United Alive in Madrid]]'' (2019)|''[[Helloween (album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)}}
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween-Michael Kiske by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=525 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=68 |oLeft=155 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween-Michael Kiske by vSpectrum.jpg |bSize=525 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=68 |oLeft=155}}
|[[Michael Kiske]]
|[[Michael Kiske]]
|{{hlist|1986–1993|2016–present}}
|{{hlist|1986–1993|2016–present}}
|rowspan="2"|lead and backing vocals
|rowspan="2"|lead and backing vocals
|{{hlist|all Helloween releases from ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I]]'' (1987) to ''[[Chameleon (Helloween album)|Chameleon]]'' (1993)|''United Alive in Madrid'' (2019)|''[[Helloween (Helloween album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)}}
|{{hlist|all Helloween releases from ''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I]]'' (1987) to ''[[Chameleon (Helloween album)|Chameleon]]'' (1993)|''United Alive in Madrid'' (2019)|''[[Helloween (album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)}}
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-20 (cropped).jpg |bSize=125 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=18 |oLeft=18 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-20 (cropped).jpg |bSize=125 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=18 |oLeft=18}}
|[[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]]
|[[Andi Deris|Andreas "Andi" Deris]]
|1994–present
|1994–present
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Master of the Rings]]'' (1994) onwards
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Master of the Rings]]'' (1994) onwards
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-5.jpg |bSize=400 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=40 |oLeft=152 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween 2016-5.jpg |bSize=400 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=40 |oLeft=152}}
|[[Sascha Gerstner]]
|[[Sascha Gerstner]]
|2002–present
|2002–present
|{{hlist|rhythm and lead guitars|occasional keyboards|backing vocals}}
|{{hlist|guitars|occasional keyboards|backing vocals}}
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Rabbit Don't Come Easy]]'' (2003) onwards
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Rabbit Don't Come Easy]]'' (2003) onwards
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween - Pumpkins United - Wacken Open Air 2018 36.jpg |bSize=1500 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=414 |oLeft=686 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Helloween - Pumpkins United - Wacken Open Air 2018 36.jpg |bSize=1500 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=414 |oLeft=686}}
|[[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]]
|[[Daniel Löble|Daniel "Dani" Löble]]
|2005–present
|2005–present
Line 73: Line 76:
|}
|}


===Former===
=== Former ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
|-
|-
Line 88: Line 91:
|all Helloween releases from ''Helloween'' (1985) to ''Chameleon'' (1993)
|all Helloween releases from ''Helloween'' (1985) to ''Chameleon'' (1993)
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Masterplan – Headbangers Open Air 2015 09.jpg |bSize=275 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=62 |oLeft=84 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Masterplan – Headbangers Open Air 2015 09.jpg |bSize=275 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=62 |oLeft=84}}
|[[Roland Grapow]]
|[[Roland Grapow]]
|1989–2001
|1989–2001
|{{hlist|rhythm and lead guitars|backing vocals}}
|{{hlist|guitars|backing vocals}}
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' (1991) to ''[[The Dark Ride]]'' (2000)
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' (1991) to ''[[The Dark Ride]]'' (2000)
|-
|-
Line 100: Line 103:
|all Helloween releases from ''Master of the Rings'' (1994) to ''The Dark Ride'' (2001)
|all Helloween releases from ''Master of the Rings'' (1994) to ''The Dark Ride'' (2001)
|-
|-
⚫
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Mark_Cross.jpg |bSize=485 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=85 |oLeft=300}}
⚫
|
|[[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]]
|[[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]]
|2001–2003
|2001–2003
Line 106: Line 109:
|rowspan="2"|''Rabbit Don't Come Easy'' (2003) {{small|– two tracks each only}}
|rowspan="2"|''Rabbit Don't Come Easy'' (2003) {{small|– two tracks each only}}
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Stefan Schwarzmann – Wacken Open Air 2014 02.jpg |bSize=100 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=35 |oLeft=12 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Stefan Schwarzmann – Wacken Open Air 2014 02.jpg |bSize=100 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=35 |oLeft=12}}
|[[Stefan Schwarzmann]]
|[[Stefan Schwarzmann]]
|2003–2005
|2003–2005
|}
|}


==Backup musicians==
== Backup musicians ==
===Session===
=== Session ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
|-
|-
Line 145: Line 148:
|Lenny Wolf
|Lenny Wolf
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=2015-08-01 Jutta Weinhold Band (Bäääm festival 2015) 001.jpg |bSize=300 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=66 |oLeft=108 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=2015-08-01 Jutta Weinhold Band (Bäääm festival 2015) 001.jpg |bSize=300 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=66 |oLeft=108}}
|[[Jutta Weinhold]]
|[[Jutta Weinhold]]
|rowspan="3"|1997
|rowspan="3"|1997
Line 166: Line 169:
|''The Dark Ride'' (2000)
|''The Dark Ride'' (2000)
|-
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Mikkey Dee (PK) – Wacken Open Air 2015 02.jpg |bSize=175 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=44 |oLeft=50 }}
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Mikkey Dee (PK) – Wacken Open Air 2015 02.jpg |bSize=175 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=44 |oLeft=50}}
|[[Mikkey Dee]]
|[[Mikkey Dee]]
|2002–2003
|2002–2003
Line 175: Line 178:
|Olaf Senkbeil
|Olaf Senkbeil
|2004–2015
|2004–2015
|backing vocals
| rowspan="2" |backing vocals
|all Helloween releases from ''Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy'' (2005) to ''My God-Given Right'' (2015)
|all Helloween releases from ''Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy'' (2005) to ''My God-Given Right'' (2015)
⚫
|-
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Avantasia Rockharz 2016 06.jpg |bSize=450 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=85 |oLeft=172}}
⚫
|[[Oliver Hartmann]]
| rowspan="2" |2004–2005
⚫
| rowspan="2" |''Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy'' (2005)
|-
|-
|
|
|Friedel Amon
|Friedel Amon
|rowspan="2"|2004–2005
| rowspan="2" |keyboards
|keyboards
⚫
|rowspan="2"|''Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy'' (2005)
|-
⚫
|{{CSS image crop |Image=Avantasia Rockharz 2016 06.jpg |bSize=450 |cWidth=75 |cHeight=75 |oTop=85 |oLeft=172 }}
⚫
|[[Oliver Hartmann]]
|backing vocals
|-
|-
|
|
|Matthias Ulmer
|Matthias Ulmer
|2007–present
|2007
⚫
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Gambling with the Devil]]'' (2007) to ''[[Helloween (album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)
|keyboards
⚫
|all Helloween releases from ''[[Gambling with the Devil]]'' (2007) to "Pumpkins United" (2017)
|}
|}


===Touring===
=== Touring ===
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
{| class="wikitable" border="1" width=100%
|-
|-
Line 217: Line 218:
|}
|}


==Timeline==
== Timeline ==
{{#tag:timeline|
{{#tag:timeline|
ImageSize = width:1000 height:auto barincrement:20
ImageSize = width:1000 height:auto barincrement:20
PlotArea = left:110 bottom:100 top:10 right:20
PlotArea = left:110 bottom:100 top:10 right:20
Alignbars = justify
Alignbars = justify
DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy
DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy
Period = from:01/06/1984 till:{{#time:d/m/Y}}
Period = from:01/06/1984 till:{{#time:d/m/Y}}
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy
Legend = orientation:vertical position:bottom columns:3
Legend = orientation:vertical position:bottom columns:3
ScaleMajor = increment:2 start:1985
ScaleMajor = increment:2 start:1985
ScaleMinor = increment:1 start:1985
ScaleMinor = increment:1 start:1985
Line 231: Line 232:
Colors =
Colors =
id:lvocals value:red legend:Lead_vocals
id:lvocals value:red legend:Lead_vocals
id:guitar value:green legend:Guitar
id:guitar value:green legend:Guitar
id:bass value:blue legend:Bass
id:bass value:blue legend:Bass
id:drums value:orange legend:Drums
id:drums value:orange legend:Drums
Line 248: Line 249:
at:25/03/2006
at:25/03/2006
at:09/12/2017
at:09/12/2017
at:13/12/2024
color:studio
color:studio
at:01/12/1985
at:01/12/1985
Line 266: Line 268:
at:18/01/2013
at:18/01/2013
at:29/05/2015
at:29/05/2015
at:18/06/2021


BarData =
BarData =
Line 271: Line 274:
bar:MichaelK text:Michael Kiske
bar:MichaelK text:Michael Kiske
bar:Andi text:Andi Deris
bar:Andi text:Andi Deris

bar:MichaelW text:Michael Weikath
bar:MichaelW text:Michael Weikath

bar:Roland text:Roland Grapow
bar:Roland text:Roland Grapow
bar:Sascha text:Sascha Gerstner
bar:Sascha text:Sascha Gerstner

bar:Markus text:Markus Grosskopf
bar:Markus text:Markus Grosskopf

bar:Ingo text:Ingo Schwichtenberg
bar:Ingo text:Ingo Schwichtenberg
bar:Ritchie text:Ritchie Abdel-Nabi
bar:Ritchie text:Ritchie Abdel-Nabi
Line 289: Line 288:
width:11 textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(11,-4)
width:11 textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(11,-4)
color:lvocals
color:lvocals
bar:Kai from:start till:14/11/1986 width:3
bar:Kai from:start till:14/11/1986
bar:MichaelK from:15/11/1986 till:24/12/1993
bar:MichaelK from:15/11/1986 till:24/12/1993
bar:Andi from:01/02/1994 till:end
bar:Andi from:01/02/1994 till:end
bar:Kai from:14/11/2016 till:end width:3
bar:Kai from:14/11/2016 till:end width:3
bar:MichaelK from:14/11/2016 till:end
bar:MichaelK from:14/11/2016 till:end



color:guitar
color:guitar
⚫
bar:Kai from:start till:14/11/1986 width:3
⚫
bar:Kai from:14/11/1986 till:01/01/1989
bar:MichaelW from:start till:end
bar:MichaelW from:start till:end
bar:Roland from:01/01/1989 till:21/08/2001

bar:MichaelW from:21/08/2001 till:22/08/2002 width:7
color:guitar
⚫
bar:Kai from:start till:01/01/1989
⚫
bar:Roland from:01/02/1989 till:21/08/2001
bar:Sascha from:22/08/2002 till:end
bar:Sascha from:22/08/2002 till:end
bar:Kai from:14/11/2016 till:end
bar:Kai from:14/11/2016 till:end
bar:Sascha from:14/11/2016 till:end width:7


color:bass
color:bass
Line 319: Line 320:
bar:Markus from:start till:end
bar:Markus from:start till:end
bar:Kai from:15/11/1986 till:01/01/1989
bar:Kai from:15/11/1986 till:01/01/1989
bar:Roland from:01/02/1989 till:21/08/2001
bar:Roland from:01/01/1989 till:21/08/2001
bar:Uli from:01/02/1994 till:21/08/2001
bar:Uli from:01/02/1994 till:21/08/2001
bar:Sascha from:22/08/2002 till:end
bar:Sascha from:22/08/2002 till:end
}}
}}


==Lineups==
== Lineups ==
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
|-
|-
Line 333: Line 334:
!scope="col"|1984 – November 1986
!scope="col"|1984 – November 1986
|
|
*[[Kai Hansen]] – lead vocals, rhythm guitar
*[[Kai Hansen]] – lead vocals, guitar
*[[Michael Weikath]] – lead guitar, backing vocals
*[[Michael Weikath]] – guitar, backing vocals
*[[Markus Grosskopf]] – bass, backing vocals
*[[Markus Grosskopf]] – bass, backing vocals
*[[Ingo Schwichtenberg]] – drums
*[[Ingo Schwichtenberg]] – drums
Line 343: Line 344:
!scope="col"|November 1986 – January 1989
!scope="col"|November 1986 – January 1989
|
|
*'''[[Michael Kiske]] – lead vocals'''
*Kai Hansen – guitar, backing vocals
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Kai Hansen – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
*Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
⚫
*'''[[Michael Kiske]] – lead vocals'''
|
|
*''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I]]'' (1987)
*''[[Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I]]'' (1987)
Line 355: Line 356:
!scope="col"|January 1989 – fall 1993
!scope="col"|January 1989 – fall 1993
|
|
*Michael Kiske – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*'''[[Roland Grapow]] – rhythm guitar, backing vocals'''
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
*Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
*Michael Kiske – lead vocals
⚫
*'''[[Roland Grapow]] – guitar, backing vocals'''
|
|
*''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' (1991)
*''[[Pink Bubbles Go Ape]]'' (1991)
Line 366: Line 367:
!scope="col"|Fall – late 1993
!scope="col"|Fall – late 1993
|
|
*Michael Kiske – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Roland Grapow – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Michael Kiske – lead vocals
⚫
*Roland Grapow – guitar, backing vocals
*'''Ritchie Abdel-Nabi – drums'''
*'''Ritchie Abdel-Nabi – drums'''
|none {{small|– live performances only}}
|none {{small|– live performances only}}
Line 375: Line 376:
!scope="col"|Early 1994 – August 2001
!scope="col"|Early 1994 – August 2001
|
|
*'''[[Andi Deris]] – lead vocals'''
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Roland Grapow – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
⚫
*Roland Grapow – guitar, backing vocals
*'''[[Andi Deris]] – lead vocals'''
*'''[[Uli Kusch]] – drums, backing vocals'''
*'''[[Uli Kusch]] – drums, backing vocals'''
|
|
Line 390: Line 391:
!scope="col"|September 2001 – August 2002
!scope="col"|September 2001 – August 2002
|
|
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*'''[[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]] – drums'''
*'''[[Mark Cross (musician)|Mark Cross]] – drums'''
|none {{small|– writing and rehearsals only}}
|none {{small|– writing and rehearsals only}}
Line 398: Line 399:
!scope="col"|August 2002 – February 2003
!scope="col"|August 2002 – February 2003
|
|
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*'''[[Sascha Gerstner]] – rhythm guitar, backing vocals'''
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Mark Cross – drums
*Mark Cross – drums
⚫
*'''[[Sascha Gerstner]] – guitar, backing vocals'''
|
|
*''[[Rabbit Don't Come Easy]]'' (2003)<br />{{small|(Cross appears on two tracks only)}}
*''[[Rabbit Don't Come Easy]]'' (2003)<br />{{small|(Cross appears on two tracks only)}}
Line 408: Line 409:
!scope="col"|February 2003 – February 2005
!scope="col"|February 2003 – February 2005
|
|
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
*Sascha Gerstner – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
⚫
*Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
*'''[[Stefan Schwarzmann]] – drums'''
*'''[[Stefan Schwarzmann]] – drums'''
|
|
Line 418: Line 419:
!scope="col"|February 2005 – November 2016
!scope="col"|February 2005 – November 2016
|
|
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
*Sascha Gerstner – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
⚫
*Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
*'''[[Daniel Löble|Dani Löble]] – drums'''
*'''[[Daniel Löble|Dani Löble]] – drums'''
|
|
Line 435: Line 436:
!scope="col"|November 2016 – present
!scope="col"|November 2016 – present
|
|
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
*Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
⚫
*'''Michael Kiske – lead vocals'''
*'''Kai Hansen – vocals, rhythm guitar'''
*Michael Weikath – lead guitar, backing vocals
*Sascha Gerstner – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
*Andi Deris – lead vocals
⚫
*Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
*Dani Löble – drums
*Dani Löble – drums
⚫
*'''Kai Hansen – guitar, backing and lead vocals'''
⚫
*'''Michael Kiske – lead vocals'''
|
|
*"Pumpkins United" (2017)
*"Pumpkins United" (2017)
*''[[United Alive in Madrid]]'' (2019)
*''[[United Alive in Madrid]]'' (2019)
*''[[Helloween (album)|Helloween]]'' (2021)
|}
|}


==References==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
*[https://www.helloween.org/ Helloween official website]
*[https://www.helloween.org/ Helloween official website]


Latest revision as of 12:24, 13 December 2024

Helloween performing live in 2008 (top) and 2016 (bottom)

Helloween are a German power metal band from Hamburg. Formed in 1984, the group was originally a quartet featuring Kai Hansen on lead vocals and guitar, Michael Weikath on guitar and backing vocals, Markus Grosskopf on bass and backing vocals, and Ingo Schwichtenberg on drums. The band's current lineup includes constant members Weikath and Grosskopf, alongside Hansen (who rejoined in 2016 after leaving in 1989), co-lead vocalists Michael Kiske (from 1986 to 1993, and since 2016) and Andreas "Andi" Deris (since 1994), rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist Sascha Gerstner (since 2002), and drummer Daniel "Dani" Löble (since 2005).

History

[edit]

1984–1994

[edit]

Helloween were formed in 1984 by Kai Hansen, Michael Weikath, Markus Grosskopf and Ingo Schwichtenberg.[1] The band signed with German heavy metal label Noise Records before the end of the year and released their self-titled debut EP in April 1985.[2] After the group issued their debut full-length album Walls of Jericho later the same year, Hansen decided to step back from the role of lead vocalist to focus on his guitar playing. After a lengthy process of trying to find a replacement, in November the role was filled by Michael Kiske.[3] Keeper of the Seven Keys: Parts I and II followed in 1987 and 1988, respectively, before Hansen left completely on New Year's Day 1989 due to "the ever-increasing stress of touring".[4] He was quickly replaced by Roland Grapow and the band returned to touring.[5]

With new guitarist Roland Grapow, the band released two studio albums – Pink Bubbles Go Ape in 1991 and Chameleon in 1993 – before more lineup changes occurred. During the 1993 tour in promotion of Chameleon, Schwichtenberg was fired due to drug addiction and mental health issues, with Riad "Ritchie" Abdel-Nabi taking his place for the rest of the shows.[2][6] By the end of the year, Kiske had also been fired after growing tensions between the two members had led Weikath to refuse to work with the vocalist.[6] Schwichtenberg would later commit suicide in 1995.[2]

1994–2003

[edit]

After firing two members in late 1993, Helloween returned early the following year with new vocalist Andreas "Andi" Deris and drummer Ulrich "Uli" Kusch.[7] This lineup remained stable for several years, issuing a string of commercially successful albums.[8] However, in August 2001 it was announced that both Kusch and guitarist Roland Grapow had parted ways with Helloween.[9] In a statement issued the day after the official announcement, the dismissals were credited to "differences in priority", with a spokesman for the band adding that "It was felt Roland and Uli were paying too much time and attention to their solo projects. After a very successful tour behind The Dark Ride album Michael, Markus and Andi felt quite rightly that the focus of Helloween members must be 100% on Helloween."[10]

In early September, Kusch's replacement was announced as former Metalium drummer Mark Cross.[11] Helloween remained without a second guitarist until August 2002, when it was announced that Sascha Gerstner, who had left Freedom Call a year earlier, had joined the band.[12] Recording subsequently began for the group's next album, however Cross was forced to sit out after contracting mononucleosis, with Mikkey Dee of Motörhead taking his place in the studio.[13] In February 2003, Cross was officially replaced by former U.D.O. and Accept drummer Stefan Schwarzmann.[14]

Since 2003

[edit]

Within two years of joining, drummer Stefan Schwarzmann had left Helloween, with Daniel "Dani" Löble taking his place in February 2005.[15] The lineup remained stable for more than ten years, before it was announced in November 2016 that founding member Kai Hansen and former vocalist Michael Kiske would be returning to Helloween for the Pumpkins United World Tour starting the following year.[16] At the start of the tour, the newly expanded group released the single "Pumpkins United", featuring Kiske, Hansen and continuing vocalist Andi Deris on vocals.[17] Following the touring cycle, the seven-piece incarnation of Helloween remained in place, for the 2021 studio album Helloween.[18]

Official members

[edit]

Current

[edit]
Image Name Years active Instruments Release contributions
Helloween 2016-3.jpg
 Michael Weikath 1984–present
  • guitars
  • backing vocals
 all Helloween releases
Markus Grosskopf, Michael Kiske-Helloween by vSpectrum.jpg
 Markus Grosskopf
  • bass
  • backing vocals
Helloween-Kai Hansen by vSpectrum.jpg
 Kai Hansen
  • 1984–1989
  • 2016–present
  • guitars
  • lead and backing vocals
Helloween-Michael Kiske by vSpectrum.jpg
 Michael Kiske
  • 1986–1993
  • 2016–present
 lead and backing vocals
Helloween 2016-20 (cropped).jpg
 Andreas "Andi" Deris 1994–present all Helloween releases from Master of the Rings (1994) onwards
Helloween 2016-5.jpg
 Sascha Gerstner 2002–present
  • guitars
  • occasional keyboards
  • backing vocals
 all Helloween releases from Rabbit Don't Come Easy (2003) onwards
Helloween - Pumpkins United - Wacken Open Air 2018 36.jpg
 Daniel "Dani" Löble 2005–present drums all Helloween releases from Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy (2005) onwards

Former

[edit]
Image Name Years active Instruments Release contributions
Ingo Schwichtenberg 1984–1993 (died 1995) drums all Helloween releases from Helloween (1985) to Chameleon (1993)
Masterplan – Headbangers Open Air 2015 09.jpg
 Roland Grapow 1989–2001
  • guitars
  • backing vocals
 all Helloween releases from Pink Bubbles Go Ape (1991) to The Dark Ride (2000)
Ulrich "Uli" Kusch 1994–2001
  • drums
  • backing vocals
 all Helloween releases from Master of the Rings (1994) to The Dark Ride (2001)
Mark_Cross.jpg
 Mark Cross 2001–2003 drums Rabbit Don't Come Easy (2003) – two tracks each only
Stefan Schwarzmann – Wacken Open Air 2014 02.jpg
 Stefan Schwarzmann 2003–2005

Backup musicians

[edit]

Session

[edit]
Image Name Years active Instruments Release contributions
James Hardaway 1985 synthesisers Walls of Jericho (1985)
Peter Iversen 1990 keyboards Pink Bubbles Go Ape (1991)
Phil Nicholas
Corinna Wolke 1992 backing vocals Chameleon (1993) – one track only
Lenny Wolf
2015-08-01 Jutta Weinhold Band (Bäääm festival 2015) 001.jpg
 Jutta Weinhold 1997 Better Than Raw (1998)
Ralf Maurer
Christina Hahne
Billy King
  • 2000

  • 2004–2015
  • The Dark Ride (2000)
  • all Helloween releases from Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy (2005) to My God-Given Right (2015)
Rolf Köhler 2000 (died 2007) The Dark Ride (2000)
Mikkey Dee (PK) – Wacken Open Air 2015 02.jpg
 Mikkey Dee 2002–2003 drums Rabbit Don't Come Easy (2003)
Olaf Senkbeil 2004–2015 backing vocals all Helloween releases from Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy (2005) to My God-Given Right (2015)
Avantasia Rockharz 2016 06.jpg
 Oliver Hartmann 2004–2005 Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy (2005)
Friedel Amon keyboards
Matthias Ulmer 2007–present all Helloween releases from Gambling with the Devil (2007) to Helloween (2021)

Touring

[edit]
Image Name Years active Instruments Release contributions
Jørn Ellerbrock 1988–2003
  • keyboards
  • programming
  • Live in the U.K. (1989)
  • all Helloween releases from Master of the Rings (1994) to The Dark Ride (2000)
Ritchie Abdel-Nabi 1993 drums none – live performances only

Timeline

[edit]

Lineups

[edit]
Period Members Releases
1984 – November 1986
November 1986 – January 1989
  • Kai Hansen – guitar, backing vocals
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
  • Michael Kiske – lead vocals
January 1989 – fall 1993
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Ingo Schwichtenberg – drums
  • Michael Kiske – lead vocals
  • Roland Grapow – guitar, backing vocals
Fall – late 1993
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Michael Kiske – lead vocals
  • Roland Grapow – guitar, backing vocals
  • Ritchie Abdel-Nabi – drums
 none – live performances only
Early 1994 – August 2001
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Roland Grapow – guitar, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Uli Kusch – drums, backing vocals
September 2001 – August 2002
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Mark Cross – drums
 none – writing and rehearsals only
August 2002 – February 2003
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Mark Cross – drums
  • Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
February 2003 – February 2005
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
  • Stefan Schwarzmann – drums
  • Rabbit Don't Come Easy (2003)
    (two special edition bonus tracks only)
February 2005 – November 2016
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
  • Dani Löble – drums
November 2016 – present
  • Michael Weikath – guitar, backing vocals
  • Markus Grosskopf – bass, backing vocals
  • Andi Deris – lead vocals
  • Sascha Gerstner – guitar, backing vocals
  • Dani Löble – drums
  • Kai Hansen – guitar, backing and lead vocals
  • Michael Kiske – lead vocals

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Everley, Dave (21 June 2017). "Helloween: "We're not as big as Maiden, but we're way bigger than Spinal Tap"". Classic Rock. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  2. ^ a b c "Helloween: Former Drummer Ingo Schwichtenberg Dies Aged 29". Metal Forces. 8 March 1995. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  3. ^ Ristić, Jovan (15 September 2017). "The Story of Kai Hansen, Part 1 – Heavy Metal is the Law". Hardwired. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  4. ^ Garza, Janiss (8 April 1989). "The Heavy Metals" (PDF). Cash Box. Vol. 52, no. 39. New York City, New York: Cash Box Publications. p. 13. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  5. ^ Cooper, Mike (3 February 1989). "Music Now!" (PDF). The Hard Report. No. 114. Medford Lakes, New Jersey: Hard Report. p. 35. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  6. ^ a b Diamond Oz. (20 January 2013). "Sunday Old School: Helloween". Metal Underground. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  7. ^ Phillips, William; Cogan, Brian (20 March 2009). Encyclopedia of Heavy Metal Music. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO. p. 113. ISBN 978-0-313-34801-3. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  8. ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo. "Helloween: Biography & History". AllMusic. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  9. ^ "Archive News Aug 21, 2001". Blabbermouth.net. 21 August 2001. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  10. ^ "Archive News Aug 23, 2001". Blabbermouth.net. 23 August 2001. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  11. ^ "Archive News Sep 10, 2001 – update 1". Blabbermouth.net. 10 September 2001. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  12. ^ "Helloween Announce Addition Of Ex-Freedom Call Guitarist". Blabbermouth.net. 22 August 2002. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  13. ^ "Motörhead Drummer To Guest On New Helloween CD". Blabbermouth.net. 2 December 2002. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  14. ^ "Helloween Name CD, Confirm New Drummer". Blabbermouth.net. 13 February 2003. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  15. ^ "Helloween Part Ways With Drummer, Announce Replacement". Blabbermouth.net. 11 February 2005. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  16. ^ "Helloween To Be Rejoined By Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen For 'Pumpkins United' World Tour". Blabbermouth.net. 14 November 2016. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  17. ^ "Listen To Audio Sample Of Helloween's First New Song Featuring Michael Kiske, Kai Hansen". Blabbermouth.net. 12 October 2017. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
  18. ^ "Helloween Feat. Kiske, Hansen: Concert CD, DVD To Arrive In Early 2019; New Studio Album Due For 2020, though due to other matters, it was postponed until summer 2021". Blabbermouth.net. 21 August 2018. Retrieved 11 May 2020.
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