Christopher Franke facts for kids

Christopher Franke (born 6 April 1953) is a German musician and composer. He is well-known for creating electronic music. From 1971 to 1987, he was an important member of the famous electronic music group Tangerine Dream.

Christopher Franke started as a drummer in a band called The Agitation, which later changed its name to Agitation Free. Over time, he began to focus more on playing keyboards and synthesizers. This happened as his band moved away from its early psychedelic rock sound, which was music that often sounded dream-like or trippy.

He was one of the first musicians to use a special device called an analog sequencer in live shows. This device helps play musical notes in a set order, creating cool rhythms. His use of it helped create the unique sound for many classic Tangerine Dream songs. It also influenced a whole style of electronic music called the Berlin School.

Christopher Franke's Music Journey

After leaving Tangerine Dream, Christopher Franke started his own record labels. These included Sonic Images and Earthtone, which focused on new-age music. New-age music is often calming and relaxing. He also created the Berlin Symphonic Film Orchestra. He has made many solo music albums since then.

His only live concert after leaving Tangerine Dream was on October 9, 1991. He performed in London with Edgar Rothermich, who also helps produce his solo music and film scores.

Composing for Movies and TV

In 1991, Franke moved to Los Angeles to work on music for films. He became very famous for composing the music for the science fiction TV series Babylon 5. He also wrote music for the anime movie Tenchi Muyo! in Love. In 2005, he composed music for the German musical Ludwig².

Key Music Works

Christopher Franke has released many albums both as a solo artist and with Tangerine Dream. Here are some of his notable works:

Solo Albums

• 1991 – Pacific Coast Highway
• 1992 – Universal Soldier (Soundtrack)
• 1995 – Babylon 5 (Soundtrack)
• 1996 – Tenchi the Movie: Tenchi Muyo! in Love (Soundtrack)
• 2004 – What the Bleep Do We Know!? (Soundtrack)

With Tangerine Dream

Christopher Franke was a key part of Tangerine Dream for many years. He helped create some of their most famous electronic music albums, including:

• 1974: Phaedra
• 1975: Rubycon
• 1975: Ricochet (Live album)
• 1977: Sorcerer (Movie Soundtrack)
• 1981: Thief (Movie Soundtrack)
• 1986: Legend (Movie Soundtrack)

Images for kids

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  Christopher Franke (right) with Tangerine Dream in the 1980s.

See also

In Spanish: Christopher Franke para niños

• List of ambient music artists
• Perry Rhodan