ZDF Studios has taken on the international distribution of Song Trip, an unscripted format that combines music, travel and cultural exchange.
The format follows well-known artists as they travel to different countries, collaborate with local musicians and reinterpret their existing songs through new cultural and musical influences.
Unlike a traditional travel documentary, Song Trip places the creative process and cross-cultural collaboration at the heart of the story. Each episode culminates in a performance set against a spectacular natural backdrop, blending the atmosphere of a live concert with the visual aesthetics of a high-end music video.
Emotional authenticity is one of the format’s defining features, with personal stories, genuine reactions and creative partnerships playing a central role throughout the journey. Following the success of its first season on ZDF, a second season has already been completed and is set to premiere in July.
The new season will see Nico Santos travel to Vietnam, Rea Garvey explore the Sápmi region across Norway and Finland, Yvonne Catterfeld journey to Cape Verde, and Peter Maffay head to Nashville, Tennessee. Each artist will immerse themselves in local musical traditions while working alongside regional talent to create new interpretations of their songs.
Episodes are rounded off with a watch party segment, where the artists reflect on their experiences, share insights and react to one another’s journeys in an open and personal setting.
According to ZDF Studios, the format’s strong visual identity, universal musical appeal and emphasis on cultural exchange give Song Trip significant potential for international sales and adaptation.
