Farin Urlaub, Bela B and Rod González are known for their political lyrics: Before the European elections in June, they are releasing a song as a call to vote.
With a view to the European elections in June, the Berlin punk rock band Die Ärzte has released a hymn to personal responsibility with the song “Democracy”. “We actually live in a democratic state that is firmly based on its basic order and yet democracy seems to be a particularly important asset to protect more than usual,” said drummer Bela B (61) to the German Press Agency in Berlin about the publication.
Guitarist Farin Urlaub (60) said he had the feeling that Germany was becoming more and more similar to the USA: “Everyone is screaming, no one is listening anymore; everyone is right, others always make mistakes; and compromises are seen as a defeat.”
“Your cross against swastikas”
The song written by Urlaub says: “You are essential, it doesn’t work without you”. There is also a reference to your own options: “If you are now wondering how you can improve the world: How about voting? Your cross against swastikas, that’s where it starts.” At the end of the video, another message appears: “Voting is the highest privilege in a democracy. If you forego it, you may soon no longer be able to vote.”
Numerous clips from the band are quoted in the AI-based video, including “Cry for Love”. The song, released in 1994, is considered an anthem against right-wing extremism and is celebrated frenetically at the band’s concerts.
Bela B: The doctors belong to the “artistic opposition”
The doctors have been politically and socially involved for years. In the video you can see a Farin vacation avatar in the Bundestag. “We act politically as a band because neutrality is not an option these days,” said Urlaub. “Personally, I would be extremely unsuitable as a real politician, simply because of a lack of any competence.”
From Bela B’s point of view, Die Ärzte as musicians automatically belong to the artistic opposition. “Our opinions and our comments are read differently and for many people perhaps more honestly than those of many politicians.” Activities such as festivals that are organized “as climate-neutrally as possible” set political standards. “We can only do all of this because we don’t have to make any compromises.”
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
