Biography: Strange Why

For German outfit Strange Why, fun is everything and music is WD-40 for the ears.

Strange Why is the solo project from producer Chris Raatz, who makes feel-good, groovy tunes from his Stuttgart home studio.

Chris began as a band manager in the '90s, but it was the music making that fascinated him. He was the guy asking “What instruments are they playing? What’s on the mixing desk?”. Fast forward 20 years, and Chris produced an album for his son-in-law Maik Garwers’ band that became a surprising success. Those guys have since broken up, but Chris didn’t want to stop producing. He still works with Maik, who plays guitars, bass and various other instruments for Strange Why.

Alongside Maik, Chris brings in collaborators from around the world. His one requirement is that everyone involved in Strange Why has fun, which is far more important to him than chasing fame or money. There has to be a good feeling in the studio and in the completed tracks. The upbeat energy that goes into the recording process can be heard in the band’s joyful, melodious songs, which mix influences from rock, pop and country music.

Strange Why is a process of experimentation and passion, building layers onto ideas saved in late night voice memos. Chris dabbles as an instrumentalist, but knows his ears and instincts surpass his own skills as a performer. He prefers to produce and arrange, collaborating with guest artists to bring his ideas to life. He has worked with guest drummers, vocalists and a sitar player, and his vision is a powerful, fun sound that simply makes you feel good.

Growing up in the era of vinyl, Chris is working toward pressing his own small record. He is looking forward to the day when he can lower the needle down onto his own disc of Strange Why tunes.