Austria 
Eurovision News 
The Austrian music scene is mourning the loss of Christof Straub, co-founder of the popular pop duo Papermoon, who has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 57. Straub was a highly respected musician, songwriter, and composer, known for his significant contributions to Austrian music and his close ties to the Eurovision Song Contest.
A distinguished career in music
Christof Straub, born on 27th August 1969 in Vienna, was a pivotal figure in Austrian music for decades. In 1991, he co-founded Papermoon with singer Edina Thalhammer, quickly achieving national success. Their debut album, Tell Me a Poem, achieved double-platinum status in Austria, with the title track becoming a significant hit. Papermoon continued to release several successful albums, including True Love, for which they received an Amadeus Austrian Music Award in 2006.
Eurovision connections
Beyond his work with Papermoon, Christof Straub held notable connections to the Eurovision Song Contest, making his passing particularly poignant for the Eurovision fan community. He was the father of Zoë Straub, who proudly represented Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 in Stockholm with her song Loin d’ici. Christof was instrumental in his daughter’s musical journey, collaborating on her songs and actively supporting her career.
His involvement with Eurovision extended further, as he was part of the selection committee for Austria’s 2017 Eurovision representative, Nathan Trent. Additionally, through his company Global Rockstar GmbH, founded in 2014, Straub collaborated with San Marino’s public broadcaster on the selection of their Eurovision candidates, showcasing his dedication to fostering new musical talent on an international stage.
Legacy and remembrance
Christof Straub’s unexpected passing on 9th September 2026 leaves a profound void in the music world. His family, including his three children Zoë, Aimée, and Zenon, and his grandson Victor, are mourning his loss. He will be remembered not only for his melodic compositions and entrepreneurial spirit but also for his unwavering support of artists, including his daughter, within the Eurovision framework and beyond.
The ESCToday Team would like to convey our deepest sympathies and condelences Christof’s family, friends and loved ones during these distressful times. RIP
