Touché: The Dieter Bohlen Blueprint for German Boyband Mania
TOUCHÉ
From: Germany
Original Members: Martin Scholz, Alexander Geist, Karim Maataoui, Glenn Frey, Dennis Frey
Years active: 1996–2003, 2015–Present
Architect: Produced by Dieter Bohlen
Biggest hit: “This Goodbye Is Not Forever”
{alertInfo}
The Modern Talking Connection: How Touché Redefined Euro-Pop
In 1996, at the height of the international boyband boom, German "Pop Titan" Dieter Bohlen decided to create a group that could rival the likes of Backstreet Boys. The result was Touché. Comprised of five distinct talents from Bad Bergzabern—Martin Scholz, Alexander Geist, Karim Maataoui, and brothers Glenn and Dennis Frey—the group was meticulously polished to deliver high-energy choreography and that signature melodic Euro-pop sound that Bohlen had perfected with Modern Talking.
The group’s peak arrived in 1998 with the massive success of their single "This Goodbye Is Not Forever," which showcased their vocal harmonies and became a staple of music television across Europe. Over the next few years, they toured extensively, hitting markets as far as China and South America. However, the lineup was subject to several shifts; Karim departed in 1999, followed by the Frey brothers in 2001, who were replaced by Donny Weiss and Chris Reuter. Though the group initially disbanded in 2003, their legacy as one of the quintessential "Bohlen" acts ensured that fans never truly let them go.
Fast forward to 2015, and Touché sparked a wave of 90s nostalgia by announcing their return. Fronted by original members Martin Scholz and Alexander Geist, the group has continued to perform at massive 90s festivals across Germany, reminding audiences of the era's infectious energy. By 2026, the group has transitioned into a beloved legacy act. Martin Scholz, in particular, has become a multi-faceted entertainer, finding success as a solo artist and TV presenter, while Touché’s music remains a core part of the German pop zeitgeist, celebrated for its unabashedly catchy hooks and 90s charm.
The Touché Discography
Part One (1997)
Kids in America (1998)
Another Part of Us (1999)
I'll Give You My Heart (Greatest Hits)The Essential Hits“This Goodbye Is Not Forever” | “I'll Give You My Heart”“Y.M.C.A.” | “I Can't Get No Sleep”“Heaven Is For Everyone” | “I Promise You”
{alertSuccess}
Follow the Members in 2026
Martin Scholz: @martin_scholz_touche
Alexander Geist: @mr_vitamin_sea
Listen to Touché on Spotify
Watch Touché on YouTube
Listen to More Boybands
Enjoy the best pop from Touché and over a hundred other groups on Boybands Radio.