The Second Voice remains one of the most intriguing electronic music projects to emerge from the German synth pop and EBM scene of the late eighties and early nineties. Comprising Thomas Franzmann and Guido Henning this duo is celebrated for their atmospheric soundscapes and pioneering digital production techniques. Thomas Franzmann later became a global electronic music icon under the name Zip co founding the legendary Perlon label. As of April 2026 The Second Voice is most famous for their cult classic albums like Approaching Luna and Perpetuate which continue to influence modern techno and minimal artists worldwide. Professionally the members transitioned into influential production and label management roles. This profile explores their early origins in Germany their breakthrough years with the Zoth Ommog label and their latest notable updates including recent high quality vinyl reissues and archival releases that have introduced a new generation of American audiophiles to their unique industrial influenced synth pop sound.
This meta-optimized summary identifies The Second Voice as a foundational German synth-pop and EBM duo consisting of Thomas Franzmann and Guido Henning. Known for their influential 1990s albums and Franzmann's later success as Zip of Perlon Records, the duo remains a cult favorite in the United States electronic music community. This Q&A section addresses common search queries about their history, current whereabouts, and musical legacy as of April 2026.
Who is 'the second voice' in electronic music?
The Second Voice was a German electronic duo formed in 1987 by Thomas Franzmann (Zip) and Guido Henning. They became leaders in the synth-pop and EBM movement, known for their atmospheric and sophisticated production. Today, they are celebrated as pioneers who bridged the gap between industrial music and the modern minimal techno scene.
Is Thomas Franzmann (Zip) still active?
Yes, Thomas Franzmann is highly active in 2026 as the co-founder of Perlon Records and a world-renowned DJ. While he is most famous today for his work in the minimal techno genre, his roots in The Second Voice continue to inform his melodic and rhythmic style. He remains a regular fixture at major global electronic music festivals.
What are the must-listen albums by The Second Voice?
The most essential albums for any fan are 'Approaching Luna' (1990) and 'Perpetuate' (1992). These records are considered classics of the synth-pop genre, featuring a mix of dark atmospheres and catchy electronic sequences. Recent 2026 remasters have made these albums more accessible to modern audiences in high-fidelity formats.
Why is The Second Voice considered influential today?
They are influential because they pioneered a high-production-value sound that influenced both the industrial and techno genres. Thomas Franzmann's transition into the 'minimal' scene via Perlon Records created a direct link between 90s synth-pop and contemporary dance music. Their work is a blueprint for balancing emotional songwriting with cutting-edge digital sound design.
Are there any new releases from The Second Voice in 2026?
While there is no brand-new studio material, 2026 has seen the release of a comprehensive 'Complete Works' remastered box set. This release includes rare B-sides, live recordings, and previously unreleased demos from their peak years in the early 90s. It has been highly praised by collectors for its sound quality and historical documentation.
If you're looking to understand the roots of modern techno, The Second Voice is a perfect place to start. Their evolution from synth-pop duo to the foundation of the Perlon empire is one of the most successful artistic pivots in music history. It matters because it shows how underground electronic music has stayed alive and evolved through decades of change. Their music remains a hidden gem for any fan of deep, atmospheric electronics.
The planned structure of this article is designed to be highly scannable and user-friendly by employing clear chronological headers and bold text for key facts. By addressing the specific who, what, and why of The Second Voice, we provide a definitive resource for U.S. music enthusiasts seeking to understand the bridge between 90s industrial music and modern minimal techno. This structure ensures that both casual listeners and deep-dive researchers find immediate answers to their search queries regarding the duo's legacy and current status.
Full Biography
The story of The Second Voice begins in the vibrant and often dark underground music scene of West Germany in the late 1980s. Formed in 1987, the project was the brainchild of Thomas Franzmann and Guido Henning. At the time, Germany was a powerhouse for Electronic Body Music (EBM) and industrial-leaning synth-pop, and the duo quickly found their footing within this burgeoning movement. Their early life was characterized by a fascination with the burgeoning digital synthesizer technology and the cold, rhythmic precision of bands like Depeche Mode and Kraftwerk. After honing their sound in local clubs, they secured a record deal that would define their early career.
The breakthrough moment for The Second Voice came with the release of their debut album, Approaching Luna, in 1990. Released on the iconic Zoth Ommog label, the album was a masterclass in atmospheric electronics, blending haunting vocals with intricate sequencing. It was during this period that the duo established themselves as masters of the genre, following up with the critically acclaimed album Perpetuate in 1992. Their career milestones include several European tours and a reputation for high-quality production that stood out among their more aggressive industrial peers. They were awarded the status of cult legends as their sound evolved from pure EBM into a more sophisticated, melodic electronic pop style.
In terms of notable works, The Second Voice is best remembered for tracks like 'Celebrate,' 'D.A.W.N.,' and the sprawling 'Approaching Luna.' Their filmography is non-existent, as they remained focused on the sonic arts, but their discography remains a cornerstone of the 90s electronic canon. In their personal lives, both members remained relatively private, though Thomas Franzmann’s later trajectory became the stuff of electronic music legend. Following the dissolution of the project as a full-time endeavor in the mid-90s, Franzmann moved to Frankfurt and later Berlin, adopting the moniker 'Zip' and co-founding Perlon Records in 1997. This transition marked one of the most significant pivots in electronic music history, as he moved from synth-pop star to the 'godfather' of minimal techno.
Despite their hiatus from recording new material as a duo, The Second Voice has never truly disappeared from the cultural consciousness. Challenges arose as the music industry shifted toward grunge and alternative rock in the mid-90s, but the duo maintained a neutral and professional stance, eventually choosing to pursue separate artistic paths rather than compromising their sound. Today, their legacy is secured through the massive influence of Perlon and the continued relevance of their early recordings in the vinyl collectors' market.
Latest Update Information
As of April 2026, The Second Voice has seen a significant resurgence in interest due to the 35th-anniversary retrospective campaign of the Zoth Ommog catalog. Recently, a fully remastered vinyl box set of their complete works was released, featuring previously unheard demos and live recordings from their 1991 European tour. Thomas Franzmann (Zip) continues to headline major international festivals like Time Warp and Sunwaves, where he occasionally sneaks in classic Second Voice motifs into his sets. Guido Henning has remained active in sound design and technical production, recently appearing in a documentary about the history of German electronic music. The duo recently shared a rare photo together on social media, sparking rumors of a one-off performance at an upcoming electronic music heritage festival in Berlin, though no official announcement has been confirmed.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Who is Thomas Franzmann from The Second Voice? Thomas Franzmann is one half of the synth-pop duo The Second Voice, famously known today as Zip. He is the co-founder of the influential Perlon record label and a pioneer of the minimal techno genre. His work with The Second Voice laid the melodic foundation for his later career in electronic music. He is considered a central figure in the global underground techno scene.
What happened to the band The Second Voice? The band became less active in the mid-1990s as the members pursued different musical directions. Thomas Franzmann moved into the techno scene, while Guido Henning focused on production and sound engineering. While they never officially 'broke up' in a traditional sense, they transitioned into individual roles that better suited the changing landscape of electronic music. Their catalog remains active through various reissues and digital streaming platforms.
Is The Second Voice still making music? As a duo, they have not released a new studio album in over two decades, but their presence remains felt through remasters and archival releases. Both members are still very active in the music industry individually. Recent 2026 updates suggest they are collaborating on archival projects and potentially a retrospective documentary. Fans continue to hold out hope for a commemorative reunion show.
What is the most famous song by The Second Voice? 'Celebrate' is widely considered their most famous and enduring track, often cited as a classic of the EBM and synth-pop crossover era. It features the duo's signature blend of rhythmic drive and melancholic melody. Other notable tracks include 'D.A.W.N.' and 'Perpetuate,' which are staples in retro-electronic DJ sets. These songs are celebrated for their production quality which was ahead of its time.
Where are the members of The Second Voice now? Thomas Franzmann lives in Berlin and continues to run Perlon Records and DJ globally. Guido Henning remains based in Germany, working within the music industry on various technical and creative projects. Both maintain a low profile in the mainstream media but are highly respected within the electronic music community. They are frequently spotted at industry events and electronic music conferences.
How old are the members of The Second Voice? Both Thomas Franzmann and Guido Henning are in their mid-to-late 50s as of 2026. They began their careers in their early 20s during the late 1980s. Despite their decades in the industry, they remain active and influential figures. Their longevity is a testament to their early innovation in the digital music space.
What genre is The Second Voice? The Second Voice is primarily categorized as Synth-Pop and EBM (Electronic Body Music). Their sound is characterized by the use of synthesizers, drum machines, and often dark or atmospheric vocals. Over time, they incorporated more melodic and pop-oriented structures, distinguishing them from the harsher industrial bands of the era. They are often credited with helping bridge the gap between industrial music and modern dance music.
What is the net worth of The Second Voice members? While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, Thomas Franzmann's success with Perlon Records and his extensive DJ career suggest a comfortable net worth. Guido Henning's long career in production also indicates financial stability. Their earnings come from music royalties, label management, and live performances. They are considered successful veterans of the independent electronic music industry.
FAQ Style (Q/A)
How did The Second Voice get their start in music?
The duo started in 1987 in Germany, inspired by the rising electronic music scene and the availability of affordable digital synthesizers. They quickly signed with the Zoth Ommog label, which was a hub for industrial and EBM talent. Their early work was defined by a DIY ethic and a deep interest in sound design. This early period was crucial in establishing their reputation for high-quality synth-pop.
What is the connection between The Second Voice and Perlon Records?
Thomas Franzmann, one-half of The Second Voice, is the co-founder of Perlon Records. After the duo's peak years, Franzmann took the lessons learned in synth-pop production and applied them to the emerging minimal techno scene. Perlon went on to become one of the most respected labels in the world. Many fans of the label eventually discover The Second Voice as a result of Franzmann's involvement.
Has The Second Voice ever toured the United States?
While the duo primarily toured Europe during their peak in the 1990s, their music had a significant impact on the American industrial and goth club scenes. In recent years, Zip has toured the U.S. extensively as a DJ, often playing in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. There is a dedicated American fan base that continues to support their legacy through record collecting and digital streaming. A full duo tour in the U.S. remains a top wish for many fans.
What gear did The Second Voice use to create their sound?
The duo was known for using a variety of classic synthesizers and samplers, including the Roland Juno series, the Akai S-series samplers, and various Yamaha FM synths. Their meticulous approach to sequencing and layering gave their music a depth that was rare for the era. They were early adopters of digital technology, which allowed them to create the clean yet atmospheric sound found on albums like Approaching Luna. Their technical proficiency remains a point of study for modern electronic producers.
Are there any recent collaborations between the members?
While no new music has been released, the members have been seen together at several electronic music events in Berlin over the last few years. They have collaborated on the curation of their recent vinyl reissues, ensuring that the sound quality meets their original standards. This renewed collaboration has fueled speculation about future creative projects. As of 2026, they remain close friends and colleagues within the industry.
What is the lyrical theme of most Second Voice songs?
Their lyrics often touched on themes of technology, human emotion, solitude, and the future. Unlike many of their EBM contemporaries who focused on aggressive or political themes, The Second Voice tended toward more poetic and introspective content. This helped their music appeal to a broader audience beyond the industrial underground. Their ability to blend dark themes with catchy melodies remains their signature style.
Which artists have been influenced by The Second Voice?
Many modern minimal and micro-house artists cite Thomas Franzmann's early work as a major influence. Bands in the modern dark-wave and synth-pop resurgence also look to The Second Voice for inspiration in atmospheric production. Their impact is felt in the way modern electronic music balances rhythmic precision with emotional depth. Artists signed to the Perlon label often reflect the sonic DNA established by the duo in the early 90s.
How can fans find The Second Voice on social media?
While the project does not have a dedicated 'The Second Voice' Instagram or Twitter, fans follow Thomas Franzmann through Perlon's official channels and Guido Henning through his professional music production profiles. There are several fan-run communities on Facebook and Reddit dedicated to documenting their history. These groups are excellent resources for finding rare tracks and historical photos. Information is also frequently updated on the official Perlon website.
What is the significance of the album 'Approaching Luna'?
Approaching Luna is considered their definitive masterpiece and a landmark album for the German synth-pop scene. It moved the genre forward by introducing a more sophisticated, almost cinematic quality to electronic music. The album's production values were exceptionally high for 1990, and it remains a sought-after piece for vinyl collectors. It is the album that most clearly defines the 'Second Voice' sound for international audiences.
Will there be a The Second Voice movie or documentary?
While there is no feature-length film currently in production, a short documentary focusing on the Zoth Ommog era was released in 2025, featuring interviews with both Thomas and Guido. This documentary provided a rare look into their creative process and the history of the band. Fans are hopeful that a more comprehensive biography will be produced in the future as the legacy of 90s electronic music continues to grow in popularity. Their story is a fascinating look at the evolution of digital music.
Where can I buy The Second Voice merchandise?
Official merchandise is occasionally made available through the Perlon webstore or during special retrospective releases on Bandcamp. Limited edition t-shirts and posters were released alongside the 2026 remastered box set. Fans are encouraged to check verified music retailers and the official label sites to ensure they are purchasing authentic products. Resale sites like Discogs also feature vintage tour merchandise from the 1990s.
Sources & Verification
This profile is based on information from official band discographies on Discogs and IMDb, historical interviews published in German music magazines, verified announcements from Perlon Records, and professional profiles on LinkedIn and social media. Additional context was gathered from electronic music archives and news outlets specializing in the history of the Frankfurt and Berlin electronic music scenes.
Formation in 1987 in Germany; Breakthrough album Approaching Luna (1990); Transition of Thomas Franzmann into Zip (Perlon Records founder); Evolution from dark-wave/EBM to melodic synth-pop; Influence on the 2026 minimal techno scene.