Born in East Berlin in 1977, Paul Kalkbrenner grew up surrounded by the influences of both classical music and the city’s burgeoning techno scene following the fall of the Berlin Wall. Starting his music journey playing the trumpet, he later developed a passion for electronic music, diving into producing tracks and performing as a DJ during the 1990s. Kalkbrenner’s distinctive approach combines evocative melodies and live improvisation, setting him apart from his contemporaries.

He gained international recognition with his 2008 hit single "Sky and Sand," composed with his brother Fritz, and for his leading role in the critically acclaimed film "Berlin Calling," in which his soundtrack became anthems for a generation of electronic music fans. Following this breakthrough, his albums, including "Self" and "7," have consistently charted and showcased his emotional and cinematic style. Renowned for his live performances, Kalkbrenner prefers to play his music using hardware and real-time remixing rather than traditional DJ sets.

He has headlined major festivals and played in iconic venues worldwide, maintaining a dedicated fan base. Throughout his career, Paul Kalkbrenner has contributed significantly to the evolution of techno, merging Berlin’s club culture with his own artistic sensibilities, and continuing to push the boundaries of electronic music both in the studio and on stage.