After his first single, a cover version of Little Richard's "Tutti Frutti" had
been released in 1955, he became Germany's first rock'n'roll and teen
star.
Having several hits between 1956 and 1964 including "Susi Rock" (1957),
"Sugar Baby" (1958) and "Tiger" (1959), he has sold over 17 million
records to date.
Although only appearing in two movies with Cornelia Froboess, they were
considered the "dream couple" of the German entertainment industry in
the early 1960s.
Received an Amadeus Austrian Music Award (2004) and an ECHO Award
(2006) for his lifetime achievements.
Also a successful painter, whose work has been exhibited in
Switzerland.
Lives with his wife Ingrid, a former model, on Lake Lugano in
Switzerland. They have a son, Michael. Their daughter Gaby - from a
prior relationship of Ingrid - died of breast cancer.
Son of Austrian actor and cabaret artist 'Fred Kraus'(Krausnecker).