With you on the stages of life.
Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.
Firmennews 21.12.2024
For over 75 years, König & Meyer has been a part of the music world and supported it every step along the way.
From the first rock ‘n’ roll sounds of the 50s to the big stage shows of the 70s to the digital revolution of the 21st century—K&M has been there as a reliable partner in the background and ensured successful gigs on the big and small stages of the world.
What began with a music stand is now a globally recognized brand with over 1,500 products, almost all of which are manufactured in house. A journey through the decades shows how K&M embraced the trends and needs of musicians and became an indispensable part of the music industry.
The 50s and 60s
The rise of music and the first steps from K&M
The 50s—an era of new beginnings and reinvention. Rock ‘n’ roll sparked a revolution on living room radios and dance floors. It was precisely at this time that the journey of König & Meyer began. The first K&M music stand was mass-produced in Wertheim. This product turned an idea into an indispensable tool for musicians.
The enthusiasm for music grew in the 60s. The “British Invasion” with the Beatles and Rolling Stones brought a wave of new artists and ideas.König & Meyer introduced microphone stands to its product range, and the legendary 210/2 quickly became a stage essential for performers around the world. It remains a top-selling product to this day and is unsurpassed in its popularity.
The 70s and 80s
From big stages and pop icons
The 70s marked the beginning of an era of superstars and big stages. Artists such as Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and David Bowie created elaborate shows with spectacular set-ups. Music evolved from sound into a full sensory experience. K&M responded with new speaker stands, especially the 214/6. The combination of stability and function made it the standard for small stages in particular and supported artists with demanding performances and on long tours.
The 80s were a bold, colorful era of avant-garde creativity. Pop music experienced a boom, and stars such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince changed the image of pop culture. The saxophone, elevated by synth sounds, became the instrument of the hour and the K&M 14300 stand a trusted resting place for these prized instruments. In the glittering world of pop, musicians appreciated the robust and reliable stands from K&M.
The 1990s and 2000s
The era of individuality and digital change
The 90s—a decade of individuality and rebellion. Grunge, hip-hop, and techno took over the music scene and brought in a bold new generation of artists. From small clubs to large festivals, musicians sought authenticity and expression. K&M responded with products that embodied this spirit. Guitar stands like the indestructible A-Frame 17540 suited a generation that lived for itself and its music.
The 2000s ushered in the digital age. MP3 players, computers, and digital recording techniques revolutionized music production and made it more mobile and accessible. The stages became more versatile, and the new »Spider« keyboard stand set new standards in design and functionality. For keyboard players, the »Spider« still one of today’s most iconic stands, brought new levels of freedom and flexibility.
The 2010s to today
Multimedia and the stage of tomorrow
Music-making changed once again in the 2010s. Social media and streaming turned today’s artists into overnight stars with stages popping up everywhere—from living rooms to open-air festivals.
K&M recognized this trend and developed stands and holders for tablets, smart phones, and headphones for artists. The 16075 headphone stand has become indispensable for the digital generation who want to be creative anywhere and at any time.
In the 2020s, club culture and festivals are once again thriving, and DJ equipment is evolving to keep up. The DJ table 12170 and its matching mounts are perfect for DJs and mobile artists ready to take their performance anywhere.
And K&M?
It remains in the middle of it all. Close to the artists. Since the 1950s, the company has been leading the way with products that musicians trust and love.
Ready to take on what’s next.
For 75 years, K&M has been synonymous with quality, precision, and passion for music.
What began in a small factory in Wertheim is now a globally established brand that is growing with an incomparable feel for the needs of musicians. König & Meyer will continue to meet the challenges of a constantly changing music scene for the next 75 years—with a clear focus on sustainability and innovation.
And the passion for music—and the people who bring it to life—endures.