When people think of polka music, they often imagine traditional German tunes echoing through beer halls and festival grounds. While the Appalachian Freunde Polka Band certainly delivers those authentic sounds, our repertoire tells a much richer story—one that bridges cultures, generations, and musical genres to create an unforgettable experience for every audience.

Traditional German Favorites That Set the Mood

At the core of our performances are the timeless German classics that transport listeners straight to Bavaria. "Ein Prosit" serves as our musical toast, encouraging everyone to raise their steins and celebrate together. The beloved "Chicken Dance" never fails to get the entire crowd moving—complete with our signature 8-foot inflatable chicken costume that has become legendary at events across the Southeast.

Songs like "Du, du liegst mir am Herzen" and "Edelweiss" showcase the romantic, sentimental side of German folk music, while "Beer Barrel Polka" and "In Heaven There is No Beer" capture the festive spirit that makes Oktoberfest celebrations so special. Our performance of "Hofbrauhaus" transforms any venue into Munich's most famous beer hall, creating an authentic atmosphere that polka enthusiasts cherish.

The Magic of Unexpected Covers

What truly sets AF Polka Band apart is our ability to transform beloved American classics into polka gold. Imagine hearing "Sweet Caroline" with an accordion backdrop, or "Brown Eyed Girl" reimagined as a lively polka that gets everyone singing along. These unexpected arrangements have become crowd favorites, proving that polka rhythms can breathe new life into any song.

Our polka version of "Africa" by Toto consistently surprises and delights audiences—it's become something of a signature piece that showcases our creativity and musicianship. Similarly, "Margaritaville" takes on a completely different energy when played polka-style, creating a unique fusion that appeals to Jimmy Buffett fans and polka lovers alike.

Songs That Tell Stories

Every song in our repertoire carries a story, and some of our most requested pieces connect deeply with audiences on multiple levels. "Country Roads" resonates especially well here in the Appalachian region, bridging our mountain heritage with polka tradition. "What a Wonderful World" offers a moment of reflection during our sets, proving that polka bands can deliver both energy and emotion.

The playful "I Wish I Could Sprechen Sie Deutsch" always gets laughs as it captures the experience many Americans have when trying to navigate German phrases at Oktoberfest celebrations. Meanwhile, "Happy Wanderer" embodies the spirit of adventure and joy that defines both German folk culture and the Appalachian mountain spirit.

Dance Floor Favorites

No polka performance is complete without songs that fill the dance floor. "Blue Skirt Waltz" provides the perfect opportunity for couples to showcase their waltz skills, while "Pennsylvania Polka" gets everyone moving with its infectious rhythm. "Celebration" needs no introduction—it's a universal party starter that transcends musical genres.

For those moments when we want to really energize the crowd, "Footloose" and "Mony Mony" prove that rock classics can seamlessly transition into polka arrangements that keep the party going strong.

Regional Touches and Personal Favorites

Our "Carolina Polka" pays homage to our home base in North Carolina, while pieces like "Happy Mountaineer Polka" celebrate our Appalachian roots. These regional connections help us forge stronger bonds with local audiences while maintaining the authentic German tradition that forms our foundation.

Songs like "Lili Marlene" and "Auf Wiedersehen Sweetheart" add a touch of wartime nostalgia and romance, appealing to older generations who remember these classics from their youth. Meanwhile, contemporary additions like "Hey Baby" ensure we're connecting with younger listeners as well.

More Than Just Entertainment

With over five hours of material in our repertoire, the songs listed here represent just a taste of what AF Polka Band brings to every performance. Each piece is carefully chosen not just for its musical merit, but for its ability to create connections—between past and present, between different musical traditions, and most importantly, between the band and our audience.

Whether we're performing at a large festival like Oktoberfest Columbia or an intimate corporate event, our song selection ensures that everyone in the audience finds something that speaks to them. From the traditional polka enthusiast to the curious newcomer, from the young party-goer to the seasoned festival veteran, our music creates a shared experience that celebrates both German heritage and American musical diversity.

Experience the Magic Yourself

The true magic of these songs isn't just in hearing them—it's in experiencing them live with hundreds of other people, all united by the infectious joy that polka music brings. When you hear our version of "Pretty Woman" or join in the singing during "Wild Rover," you become part of a musical tradition that spans continents and generations.

Ready to experience the Appalachian Freunde Polka Band difference? Book your event online here or call (828) 231-4121. Let us bring the authentic spirit of Oktoberfest to your celebration with music that's guaranteed to create memories that last a lifetime.

Wunderbar!