Updated: 20.07.2026, 12:08 PM
The iconic 80s band Roxette wowed audiences in Kiel during the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival with its new lead singer, Lena Philipsson. After the passing of frontwoman Marie Fredriksson in 2019, the band had been relatively quiet.
Roxette has been around for 40 years, and since 2025, they have a new frontwoman: Lena Philipsson. The death of Marie Fredriksson in 2019 from cancer was a shock to many fans. However, singer and songwriter Per Gessle decided to carry on and reassemble his band. As the audience eagerly awaited the concert at Kiel’s Ostseehalle, many shared mixed expectations: “She can’t replace the previous singer, there’s no debate about that. But I expect a lovely evening with great music and familiar hits,” said one attendee. Others were ready to be surprised, determined to give the new singer a fair chance.
Fans Celebrate Roxette Hits
Alongside Per and Lena, six other musicians shared the stage in Kiel. Together, they celebrated Roxette’s greatest hits: Lena donned a sparkling silver dress with black boots, while Per wore tight red pants and a white shirt. The infectious energy quickly spread to the audience, who struggled to remain seated. Among them was nine-year-old Johann, who beamed: “I was excited to see Per Gessle, and they played my favorite song, ‘The Look,’ because I really love the rhythm!”
Encore with “Listen to Your Heart” and “Spending My Time”
Roxette managed to excite both young and old alike. After around an hour, as the band exited the stage, a wave of anticipation swept through the Ostseehalle. For their encore, they performed hits like “Listen to Your Heart” and “Spending My Time,” leaving many in the audience thrilled to witness the band with its new lead singer.
Chills with Slightly Altered Songs
“She did it differently, yet did not change the songs. I loved that,” remarked a woman. “Of course, Marie’s voice is irreplaceable,” another visitor noted, “but Lena came close.” Thomas from Hamburg added, “I enjoyed her performance, but it took me a moment to adjust.” His wife, Sonja, was all smiles. “She sang beautifully, and the energy was fantastic.” The evening turned out to be filled with emotions, goosebumps, and a plethora of Roxette hits.
