Germany in the 1950s. Udo Lindenberg grows up in the working-class town of Gronau and dreams of being in the spotlight of show business. While his mother Hermine encourages the talented boy, his father Gustav doesn't trust him to lead a life outside the family tradition. Nevertheless, the plumber gives his son a gift that changes Udo's life: a drum set. In his early 20s, Udo tried to start his career in Hamburg. In the Kiez, between demimonde and bohemians, he experiences freedom. He drums in brothels, recording studios and with rock bands - but the breakthrough doesn't happen. Music producer Mattheisen's attempt to release Udo with a rock album in English also leads to disappointment. Only when Udo reflects on himself and sings his own songs in his language does the big opportunity come. Just before an important concert, he jeopardizes his breakthrough with an argument with his faithful friend and guitarist Steffi.
—ADR Das Erste