A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock n Roll

As different as things can be here in Germany, sometimes it is surprising just how much of our American culture has made it over here. When I'm at the gym, I often can watch shows like "Scrubs" and "Two and a Half Men" in German. I've also seen an episode or two of "How I Met Your Mother" and I know that "Grey's Anatomy" is popular, as well. They are all dubbed over in German, which still weirds me out. Much of the music that is on the top of the charts in America is also popular here in Germany, although they definitely don't have the affinity for rap that we do. The Hollywood blockbusters can usually be found in Munich, as well, in both German and English. Despite all of the overlap, I couldn't believe it when our friends (an American wife, German husband) invited us to a country-western themed bar in the southern part of the city. Could this place really exist in Munich? I don't think a country western bar could stay in business in Philadelphia, let alone Munich, Germany. I know none of my German friends can stand country music, and I would expect most Germans to share a similar view. So we took a chance on the "Oklahoma Saloon" and joined our friends there for some live music on Saturday night.

And... We were both very pleasantly surprised! I was shocked when we entered the bar. It was a small place with cheesy country and western memorabilia plastering the walls. There was everything from old guns, to a miniature Conestoga wagon, to a large Confederate flag. The doors that led back to the restrooms were even swinging doors just like you would expect in any reputable saloon! Most of the other people in attendance were Germans, and many were decked out in their best western wear -- hats, plaid shirts, etc. No cowboy boots in sight though! haha Most of them were older, so I guess not many young Germans are into country music. A band called "Westworld Company" played a set from 9 PM until a little after midnight (including two short breaks). There were four bandmates, and all of them were German except the bassist who was originally from Dallas (but he spoke perfect German so he must have moved here a long time ago). They played a really great mix of both classic country and some rock and roll. We heard Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson, CCR, Alabama, and even some Jimmy Buffet and Hendrix. And of course they played the German favorite, "Country Roads" by John Denver. I have absolutely no idea how this song became so popular in Germany, but seriously, they all know all of the words. It's really strange. Anyways, it really was a great set, and all of the songs stayed true to the country western theme. Some of the other attendees even did some dancing. No line dancing, though -- that's scheduled for later this month! haha

I'm not sure when we'll make it back to the Oklahoma Saloon but we definitely had a great night listening to some live music. Almost felt like we were back in Nashville! We took a few pics while they were playing so you can see for yourself. Another great weekend in Munich!











Here's a link to the bar's site, if you're interested: http://www.oklahoma-saloon.com/

Cheers,
Kristin and Matt