“You Can’t Live on That”
As Joelina Drews (r.) revealed in a podcast, her parents, Jürgen and Ramona Drews, despite her father’s low statutory pension, are “not living in poverty.”
© 2025 Getty Images/Hannes Magerstaedt
Her father Jürgen Drews enjoyed a successful career as a musician for decades. In a podcast, Joelina Drews recently discussed how low her father’s pension actually is.
On the podcast “Drews Cordalis – Kids-Club,” Joelina Drews (30) joins Lucas Cordalis (58) and Achim Petry (51) to talk about retirement planning. She reveals just how little statutory pension her father, Schlager legend Jürgen Drews (81), receives.
The Reality of Pension for Artists
Lucas Cordalis expresses concern, saying, “Our careers can end tomorrow.” Achim Petry shares the anxiety of many artists regarding their financial futures, highlighting that retirement can be a tricky subject for musicians.
Joelina emphasizes the importance of self-preparation for retirement. “There are various options for self-employed individuals,” she explains. She firmly believes that relying solely on statutory pensions won’t provide a comfortable life in old age.
Jürgen Drews’ Financial Situation
Joelina speaks candidly about her father’s situation. The icon of Mallorca reportedly contributed to the pension fund late, which contributes to his financial struggles today. While she isn’t certain about the exact amount, she estimates, “Let it be around 200 to 300 euros.” She adds, “You can’t live on that in Germany these days.”
A Silver Lining
Despite the shocking low figures, the singer reassures listeners that her parents are not in financial distress. “My parents are not living in poverty; they are doing well,” she clarifies. Jürgen Drews has planned well for his later years, which alleviates some concerns.
Conclusion
The discussion revolves around a significant issue that many artists face: financial insecurity in retirement. Illustrating her father’s financial situation provides insight into the larger implications for artists in the entertainment industry.
Retirement may require artists to be proactive in securing their financial future, as relying solely on statutory pensions may not suffice. Joelina’s insights pave the way for a necessary discussion about financial planning and peace of mind for individuals in creative fields.

