Gerd Michaelis-Chor, a vocal ensemble from the DDR, was founded in 1967 as part of the Wolfgang-Brandenstein-Ensemble. Led by Gerd Michaelis, they initially consisted of around eight members and were associated with the Friedrichstadtpalast until 1968. They gained prominence through their Schlager music and political songs, releasing their debut album Stereo par Excellence in 1969. Notable singles included "Der Abend bringt Träume" (1967) and "Reisen, reisen in die weite Ferne" (1967). Their hit "Isabell", featuring Hartmut Schulze-Gerlach as the soloist, was released in 1973. In 1974, the Gerd-Michaelis-Chor-Band was formed but disbanded two years later due to health issues of Michaelis. Notable members included Jan Gregor and Henry Kotowski, who later became known as solo artists. Their final album under Michaelis' leadership was Leg' doch mal die Big Band auf in 1976. After Michaelis stepped down, Vlady Slezák continued the ensemble as Cantus-Chor.
