Markus Grosskopf from Helloween shares his top non-metal albums

Markus Grosskopf, the esteemed bassist of the renowned power-metal band Helloween, recently disclosed his top five non-metal album picks when prompted by Goldmine. With a career spanning over three decades, Helloween has solidified its influence in the realm of power metal since its inception in Germany in 1984. The band’s core members, including guitarist/vocalist Michael Weikath, bassist Markus Grosskopf, and guitarist Kai Hansen, have steadfastly contributed to their success. With a myriad of accolades and a record-breaking ten million records sold, Helloween’s latest release, “Giants & Monsters,” presented in various formats, follows closely on the heels of their double live album debut at the culmination of 2024.

Markus Grosskopf delved into his musical psyche to unearth five distinct non-metal albums that have resonated deeply with him over the years. One standout is Vaya Con Dios’s “The Ultimate Collection,” an exquisite Belgian band marked by the captivating vocals of Dani Klein. Their music possesses a unique allure that Grosskopf finds particularly soothing, especially during his travels and tours, notably in South America. Another highlighted album is Sugababes’ “One Touch,” a delightful creation from one of England’s pioneering girl groups. Grosskopf appreciates the album for its relaxing and comforting ambiance, often being the soundtrack to memorable moments with his wife at the Baltic Sea.

Grosskopf’s musical journey also includes Walter Trout’s “Life in the Jungle,” a mesmerizing blues album that captivated him with its heartfelt melodies back in 1989. Walter’s distinctive interpretation of blues music left a lasting impression on Grosskopf, paving the way for his continued admiration for the genre. The timeless Chuck Berry anthology encapsulates the beginnings of rock and roll music, portraying Berry’s revolutionary impact on the industry. His influence stretched across various music genres, leaving an indelible mark on countless artists and musicians who followed in his footsteps.

Rounding off his selection is Stray Cats’ eponymous album, symbolizing the pinnacle of rockabilly music. Grosskopf’s late discovery of the album in his teenage years unlocked a newfound appreciation for the genre and its infectious tunes. The collaboration with renowned producer Dave Edmunds further elevated his admiration for the album, resonating deeply with his musical sensibilities.

Markus Grosskopf’s eclectic album picks underscore his diverse musical palette and the profound impact of non-metal music on his creative endeavors. As a stalwart figure in the power-metal scene, his appreciation for these non-metal masterpieces sheds light on the broad spectrum of influences that inspire his musical journey.