Ramstein in Berlin
Till Lindemann and Co. in the Olympic Stadium
© imago/Gonzales Photo
Rammstein will be back on stage in Germany next weekend. Despite petitions and demonstrations.
Rammstein are back in Germany. In their hometown of Berlin, the rockers around Till Lindemann, 60, will appear three times in the Olympic Stadium – on July 15th, 16th and 18th, despite the ongoing massive criticism and the corresponding reporting on the allegations of abuse against the front man. Several petitions that aimed to prevent the performances could not change that. More than 100,000 people called on Berlin politicians to ban the shows. A joint letter from two organizers of these calls said: “These concerts are not a safe place for women and girls.” That is why Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD, 61) should work towards canceling the concerts.
Her colleague Joe Chialo (CDU, 53), Senator for Culture in the capital, rejected such demands shortly before the concerts. Even if the demand were emotionally understandable, there would be no legal leverage, Chialo is quoted as saying. Nevertheless, the opponents of the Rammstein concerts will not be silent. As reported, among other things, by the music magazine “Rolling Stone”.there will be an organized demonstration.
Higher security measures planned
As the “Berliner Morgenpost” reports, the already high security measures are said to have been tightened again in the run-up to the three Rammstein concerts. According to the report, bag checks will be carried out on people visiting the stadium. In addition, some areas have been closed for visits. It was announced in advance that there will be no after-show party on the grounds of the Olympic Stadium. The city of Berlin, as the owner of the band, issued a ban on the otherwise obligatory celebration after the concert.
After the three concerts in Berlin, the Europa Stadion Tour 2023 will no longer lead Rammstein back to Germany – but it’s not over yet. Stations in Paris (July 22nd), Vienna (July 26th and 27th), Chorzów (July 30th and 31st) and Brussels (August 3rd, 4th and 5th) followed before Lindemann, Richard Kruspe, 56, Paul Landers, 58 , Oliver Riedel, 52, Christoph Schneider, 57, and Christian “Flake” Lorenz, 56, end their concerts at least for this year.