Andreas Frege, known professionally as Campino, was born on June 22, 1962, in Düsseldorf, West Germany. He is a prominent German-British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as the lead vocalist of the influential punk rock band Die Toten Hosen. Campino grew up in a bilingual household, thanks to his English mother, alongside five siblings. His family has notable historical ties, with his grandfather Ludwig Frege having served as the president of the Federal Administrative Court of Germany.

Campino's early exposure to punk rock came from his older brother John. He attended the Humboldt-Gymnasium in Düsseldorf, where he met Michael Breitkopf, a future bandmate. After completing school in 1983, Campino served briefly in the German Federal Armed Forces before transitioning to alternative civilian service. His musical career began with the band ZK from 1978 to 1982, before he co-founded Die Toten Hosen in 1982 with Andreas von Holst, Michael Breitkopf, Andreas Meurer, Trini Trimpop, and Walter November.

Die Toten Hosen gained fame for their energetic performances and punk ethos, often playing small gigs in their early years. The band has been involved in various social causes, including supporting football club Fortuna Düsseldorf and advocating against racism in sports. Campino is also a fan of Liverpool F.C.

In addition to his music career, Campino has made numerous media appearances and has acted in films and television. He has interviewed notable figures such as Angela Merkel and Paul McCartney and has participated in public discussions on social and religious issues. Campino has a son with German actress Karina Krawczyk and has written songs addressing personal themes, such as the loss of his parents to cancer.