Henning May Biography: Voice of a Generation, Music, Career, Net Worth & More

If you’ve ever heard a voice that makes you stop in your tracks—deep, raw, and full of emotion—chances are, it might have been Henning May. The German singer, best known as the frontman of the band AnnenMayKantereit, has gained international attention for his unique sound and heartfelt lyrics.

But who is Henning May beyond the music? What’s the story behind his journey from the streets of Cologne to some of Europe’s biggest stages?

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at Henning May’s biography, career path, top songs, collaborations, and net worth. Let’s dive in!

Who Is Henning May?

Henning May was born on January 13, 1992, in Cologne, Germany. From an early age, he had an ear for music. But it’s not just his talent that stands out—it’s that gritty, soul-filled voice that fans can’t get enough of.

One of the most fascinating things about Henning is that he’s mostly self-taught. He didn’t go to music school or get formal training. Instead, he just started singing and playing instruments with his friends. That raw and unpolished style became what fans now know and love as his trademark sound.

The Birth of AnnenMayKantereit

Henning May co-founded the band AnnenMayKantereit in 2011 with his school friends Christopher Annen and Severin Kantereit. Funny enough, the band’s name is just a combination of their last names. Talk about keeping it real!

Initially, the trio started out as street musicians, performing on sidewalks and in public squares around Cologne. Their popularity grew fast, especially after videos of their street performances went viral on YouTube. Sometimes, you don’t need a big stage to be discovered—you just need real talent.

What Makes Their Sound Unique?

One word: Henning’s voice. It has a scratchy, soulful quality that sounds like it belongs to someone twice his age. It’s not polished, and that’s exactly what makes it so powerful. Pair that with authentic lyrics and acoustic instrumentals, and you’ve got a recipe for a unique band sound that cuts through the noise.

Key Songs That Put Them On the Map

Over the years, Henning May and his band have released several songs that resonated deeply with fans. Here are a few must-listens:

• “Oft Gefragt” – A heartfelt song about fatherhood and family relationships that earned massive praise.
• “Barfuß am Klavier” – Translates to “Barefoot at the Piano.” Yes, it’s just as raw and emotional as it sounds.
• “Marie” – A song that offers a poetic take on love and heartache.

These tracks showcase Henning May’s ability to connect with audiences using just a few chords and honest words. And isn’t that what great music is all about?

Solo Ventures And Collaborations

Although Henning is best known for his work with the band, he’s also explored other artistic paths. He has collaborated with several artists in and outside of Germany, constantly pushing musical boundaries.

For instance, you might have heard him team up with German rapper K.I.Z on the track “Hurra die Welt geht unter.” That was a major departure from his usual acoustic vibe, but it showed just how versatile Henning really is.

Henning May’s Musical Influences

Ever wondered who got Henning interested in music in the first place? While he’s carved out a unique sound of his own, his influences are quite diverse. He grew up listening to everything from classic rock and blues to modern indie. Artists like Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen are often mentioned when fans describe his voice and lyrical style.

It’s like his voice carries the weight of every emotional song ever written—and that gives his music timeless appeal.

How Much Is Henning May Worth?

So just how successful is he financially? As of 2024, Henning May has an estimated net worth of about $2 million.

That’s pretty impressive for someone who started out busking on city streets. His income mainly comes from:

• Music sales and streams
• Live performances and tours
• Merchandise
• Collaborations with other artists

While he’s not throwing money around like a rockstar, Henning has clearly built a sustainable career doing what he loves. And that’s something worth admiring.

Interesting Facts About Henning May

Here are a few fun tidbits that you might not know:

• Multilingual Talent: He sings mostly in German, but you can hear traces of English and French in some live performances.
• Self-Taught Musician: Henning plays multiple instruments, including the piano and guitar, and taught himself how to sing.
• Socially Conscious: Henning and his band often speak out on social and political issues. They frequently support causes such as refugee rights and environmental protection.

Why Do Fans Love Him So Much?

It’s more than just the music. Fans love Henning May for his authenticity. He doesn’t pretend to be someone he’s not. Whether he’s busking on a street corner or headlining a major festival, what you see is what you get.

His lyrics talk about real-life struggles—family tension, heartbreak, self-doubt. It makes people feel understood. And in an industry full of filtered reality, that kind of raw honesty is like a breath of fresh air.

Where To Hear More Of His Music

If this is your first time hearing the name Henning May, welcome to a treasure trove of music that’s both moving and memorable. You can find his songs on:

• Spotify
• Apple Music
• YouTube

Just search AnnenMayKantereit and start exploring. You might want to grab some tissues—you’ve been warned!

Final Thoughts

Henning May’s story isn’t just about music—it’s about heart, hustle, and staying true to yourself. From his street music days to becoming a beloved figure in German music, his journey proves that talent plus authenticity can go a long way.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering him for the first time, one thing’s for sure—Henning May is a voice you won’t forget.

If you’re into music that makes you feel something real, he’s definitely an artist to keep on your radar.

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Got a favorite Henning May song? Drop it in the comments below!