Heintje turns 70: A life full of music despite health setbacks!

Heintje turns 70: A life full of music despite health setbacks!

At a time when the music scene is constantly changing, a very special musician is celebrating his 70th birthday. Hein Simons, better known as Heintje, turned 70 on October 27, 2023 and looks back on an eventful career. The singer, who became famous in 1967 with his hit “Mama” on the ZDF show “Der Goldene Schuß”, has won numerous fans over the years and created unforgettable melodies. But his path wasn't always easy. While he has performed concerts and released albums in recent years, Heintje is currently facing serious health challenges.

“I'm very concerned about my hearing,” says the former child star, who was 69 years old when these concerns were raised publicly. According to information from MDR, he only has 70% hearing in his left ear and only 30% in his right ear. This is a tough burden for a musician.

Health challenges

Heintje doesn't just suffer from hearing problems. He was diagnosed with skin cancer two years ago, but has now got it under control. He is also struggling with the consequences of a pulmonary embolism and takes blood thinners every day to prevent it. Despite all these challenges, he has the absolute will to live and would like to live to be 100 years old. “Music is my dream job and it’s hard for me to say goodbye to it,” he emphasizes. According to Bluewin, Heintje was already a worldwide sensation in the 1960s and even had the opportunity to be invited to Las Vegas by Elvis Presley, which he declined.

His family, especially his four grandchildren, give him strength and joy. This family support is also evident in his plans for his big 70th birthday. Heintje is planning a small coffee drink with his relatives and good friends - he doesn't like big parties.

Appear with caution

Heintje recently canceled all upcoming concerts because he wants to make a full recovery first. He has decided not to take the stage again until he feels safe. This represents another setback in his career, which began in his parents' pub, where he often sang "Mama" to his audience. His hits like “I’ll build you a castle” and “Heidschi Bumbeidschi” will never be forgotten. Radio Euskirchen emphasizes that, despite his setback in the music world, Heintje is keeping in touch with his fans and is planning a festival with them at the end of August 2023, at which there may also be singing again.

Heintje's life story is an exciting chapter in German-speaking music history, and it remains to be seen what twists his path will take. His desire to remain active in music and live a self-determined life could bring him back to the stages despite all the difficulties. His fans want nothing more than for their “Mama” singer to be heard from again soon.