Bernhard Brink
Pop star talks about the “wild 70s”
Bernhard Brink has been successful in the business since the 1970s.
© Robert Recker
Bernhard Brink celebrates his 50th stage anniversary in 2022. In the interview, the singer looks back on “wild” times.
On April 15, 1972, pop star Bernhard Brink (69) appeared on the stage for the first time in the ZDF hit parade – and laid the foundation for a successful career. The 69-year-old is celebrating his 50th stage anniversary this year. On this occasion, Brink published his autobiography “Everything except dancing” (Bild und Heimat Verlag) in March. In it, the TV and radio presenter looks back on his turbulent life. In an interview with the news agency spot on news, Brink talks about the wild 70s as well as setbacks and changes within the music industry. In addition, the singer, who celebrates his 35th wedding anniversary with his wife Ute in April, reveals the secret of their love.
This year you are celebrating your 50th stage anniversary. How do you look back on your career?
Bernhard Brink: In April 1972 I had my very first appearance in Dieter Thomas Heck’s legendary ZDF hit parade, simply unbelievable. The fact that I’m still allowed to be on stage after 50 years is very lucky and I don’t take it for granted. That was unforeseeable. My big dream as a teenager was to become a singing star. I just wanted to do it and I did it. But what you can say: It takes talent, diligence, a bit of luck and perseverance. I’ve always tried to go through the music scene with my eyes wide open. Allowing new ideas and impulses from outside, but staying true to myself. But the most important thing is that you are passionate about your job – and I still do that today.
For this reason you have published a biography. It is entitled “Everything but dancing”. Does that mean you don’t like swinging your hips?
Brink: I can’t dance and I’ve never liked to do it. When I was asked if I would like to take part in “Let’s Dance”, I thought at first: “They must be wrong”. But I am enthusiastic about sports and accept challenges. After hard training and thanks to my patient dance partner Sarah Latton, I actually survived several rounds as a born non-dancer. To this day, “brinking”, i.e. when a dance performance is not particularly successful, is a dictum. I take that with humor.
What is the worst and what is the best memory of your life so far?
Brink: That’s difficult to give a general answer. From a professional point of view, my very first victory in the ZDF hit parade and my first gold record are certainly great memories. For me – like for all artists – the Corona crisis was really the biggest turning point in my life, because I couldn’t work. And I’m really happy now to be able to go on tour again at the moment.
In your book you also describe many encounters with female fans. How was “Sex, Drugs and Rock’n’Roll” your motto in the 70’s?
Brink: The 70s were a wild, carefree and carefree time. Back then there was no AIDS, no Corona, nothing. It was a lot looser. At that time, life was one big party and we traveled a lot. However, drugs have never played a role for me.
Doesn’t your wife mind that you talk so openly about your past love affairs?
Brink: Ute knew that from the beginning and knows that my industry can be crazy. The female fans have never troubled her. But of course I asked Ute before we wrote the book. She was okay with that.
Everyone experiences ups and downs in their life. How do you deal with setbacks?
Brink: Things don’t always go up, sometimes things go wrong. But you have to be the architect of your own fortune and take care of yourself. Victory can come from every defeat. And you need an environment that catches you in moments like this – and luckily I have that.
How has the music world changed over the years?
Brink: When I started, records, radio and television were the media for presenting and listening to music for many years. At that time you were known to an audience of millions with a TV appearance. I used to get 30,000 letters after appearing in the hit parade. That has totally changed. Music is mostly consumed digitally today, and this is also increasing in pop music. And social networks play an important role. But I think what will always remain is the fascination of a live concert. There is no substitute for that.
On April 16th you celebrate your 35th wedding anniversary with your wife Ute. What’s the secret of your love?
Brink: You have to be considerate of each other, treat each other with respect and give others their freedom. We have similar interests and are as simple as the proverbial pot and its matching lid.
What would you recommend to other couples, how to keep your relationship fresh?
Brink: Due to my many trips, we were often “healthy” apart. I think that’s good for a long-term relationship.