Berlin has long been a magnet for outsiders, from provincial Prussians centuries ago to Brooklyn hipsters today. Strangers at first, these newcomers eventually make the city their own and reshape its social fabric.
This process continued even while Berlin was divided during the Cold War, but 20 years after reunification, the German capital has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreigners hoping to start a new life.
Julia Lipkins’ multimedia project for The Local lets these new Berliners tell their own stories.
Joe C.
Philadelphia, USA
Click here for Joe C.’s story.
Trained as a singer in America, Joe C. found a stage beneath Berlin.
Joe came to Germany over 15 years ago. He performs regularly in metro stations throughout Berlin after moving to the city from Munich. He has a repertoire of over 200 songs and has been a pianist since childhood.
Member comments