Fez is 76 years old. According to his wife, he had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease for several years. She described the death as “redemption” for her husband.
The musician from the Bavarian Forest became famous beyond the Free State, especially for his sometimes biting puns, performed in Bavarian dialect. Fessl played often Guitar, but tuba and horn.
“Königsyodel” is considered one of his most famous works. People would sometimes double over with laughter as he led into the next number with long, ridiculous monologues.
Not on stage since 2006
His illness prevented him from his beloved live performances 20 years ago. He sat on the stage until his health failed in 2006. He also publicized his illness in the media.
“It’s so hard, all your skills and the things you enjoy doing, Be very limited by diseaseFessl wrote on his 75th birthday. Most recently he lived alone with his wife Monica in Upper Bavaria.
By his own account, Fessl’s career began by chance – he saved entrance fees to Munich cabarets by bringing his guitar with him. When artists were not available, he insisted on acting.
“Bavarian Original”
Bavaria’s Prime Minister Markus Soder reacted to Bard’s death with great sadness. “He was a Bavarian original with a subtle sense of humor and made people laugh and think in equal measure,” Soder wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“A versatile performer of words and music, he is one of the pioneers of the Bavarian musical cabaret we know and love today.” Fezl bore his severe illness, with which he had to contend for so long, with admirable patience, dignity and his usual calmness. “So he’s a role model for a lot of people here,” Soder said.
https://twitter.com/Markus_Soeder/status/1805990761344684085
Bavaria’s Minister of the Arts Markus Blum hailed Friedl Fess as “an icon of musical cabaret and a stirring lyricist”. He was deeply rooted in Lower Bavarian culture and the power of dialect, supported by an unflappable sense of humor.
“His ‘Koenigsjodler’ is from Bavaria, the green slopes of the Koenigsee,” Blum said, “and as the inventor of the Bavarian musical cabaret, he paved the way for many artists and inspired Bavarians and Bayern fans alike.”
