Will Glahé brought joy to millions with his accordion and cheerful polka tunes. Known for chart-topping hits like “Beer Barrel Polka,” this German musician became a household name in both Europe and the United States. From the 1930s to the postwar era, Glahé built a lasting legacy through his upbeat music, creative arrangements, and international success.
Today, he remains one of the most recognized figures in polka history.
| Full Name | Gustaf Adolf Wilhelm Glahé |
| Stage Name | Will Glahé |
| Born | February 12, 1902 – Elberfeld, Germany |
| Died | November 21, 1989 – Rheinbreitbach, Germany |
| Genre | Polka, Folk, Big Band |
| Instruments | Accordion |
| Famous Hits | “Beer Barrel Polka”, “W.P.A. Polka”, “Liechtensteiner Polka”, “Bartender Polka” |
| Nickname | The Polka King |
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Will Glahé was born in Elberfeld, Germany, in 1902. He quickly became known as one of Germany’s top accordionists, alongside contemporaries Heinz Munsonius and Albert Vossen.
By 1932, Glahé was leading his own orchestra. Though it’s unclear whether it was called the Musette Orchestra at the time, this group became central to his international success. One of their early standout recordings was “Rosamunde,” a lively adaptation of the Czech melody “Škoda lásky” (“Wasted Love”).
That song would soon change everything.
“Beer Barrel Polka” – A Global Hit
“Rosamunde” crossed the Atlantic and was repackaged in the United States as “Beer Barrel Polka,” also known as “Roll Out the Barrel.” With lyrics by Wladimir Trim and Lew Brown, the song became an instant hit.
In 1939, Glahé’s version topped the U.S. Hit Parade (published by Billboard). It sold over a million copies and brought polka music into the mainstream. The track’s infectious melody and celebratory mood helped it become an international standard. Soldiers during World War II embraced it, singing it in mess halls and on the battlefield.
More Chart-Toppers in America
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After the success of “Beer Barrel Polka,” Glahé continued to make waves in the U.S. music scene. His upbeat tracks struck a chord with wartime and postwar audiences. Some of his major American hits include:
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“Hot Pretzels” – #11 (1939)
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“W.P.A. Polka” – #11 (1939)
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“Bartender Polka” – #22 (1940)
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“Woodpecker Peck” – #20 (1940)
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“You Can’t Be True, Dear” – #17 (1948)
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“Liechtensteiner Polka” – #16 (1957)
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“Sweet Elizabeth” – #91 (1958)
Each song featured Glahé’s signature accordion sound and spirited arrangements, appealing to fans of polka, swing, and folk alike.
Postwar Success and “The Polka King” Title
Glahé’s fame only grew after World War II. He earned the nickname “The Polka King” thanks to his continued dominance in the genre. His concerts and recordings remained in demand, particularly among polka fans in the U.S., Germany, and other parts of Europe.
He often blended traditional folk elements with big band arrangements, giving his music a full, dynamic feel. In later years, he added vocal choruses to support his instrumentals, giving his songs a fresh and accessible sound.
“Liechtensteiner Polka” and Cultural Impact
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In 1957, Glahé co-wrote “Liechtensteiner Polka” with Edmund Kötscher and Rudi Lindt. This cheerful tune climbed to #16 on the U.S. charts and became another Glahé favorite.
Other musicians, such as Lawrence Welk, also recorded versions of Glahé’s work. While Welk’s version of “Liechtensteiner Polka” saw only minor chart success, it helped bring Glahé’s music to a wider television audience.
Glahé’s polkas became a staple at Oktoberfests, dances, weddings, and polka festivals. His recordings inspired generations of accordionists and helped preserve the genre for new audiences.
Later Life and Legacy
Will Glahé continued to record music well into the 1960s and 70s, although much of his later output was released primarily in Europe. He remained active in music until his final years.
He passed away on November 21, 1989, in Rheinbreitbach, Germany, at the age of 87.
Though time has passed, Glahé’s music lives on. “Beer Barrel Polka” remains one of the most recognized polka tunes ever recorded. His influence shaped the sound of mid-century European folk-pop and left a lasting mark on American popular culture.
Conclusion
Will Glahé didn’t just perform polka music—he made it popular across borders. His accordion brought smiles to war-weary crowds and kept dance halls alive with joy. Decades later, his recordings still energize parties and parades around the world. As the man behind “Beer Barrel Polka” and dozens of other beloved tunes, Will Glahé truly earned his title as the Polka King.