Heino inspires in Potsdam: folk music between tradition and controversy!

Heino inspires in Potsdam: folk music between tradition and controversy!

Heino is back and, even at the ripe old age of 86, is proving to be a walking folk music institution. At his concert in Potsdam's Nikolaisaal, which runs under the tour motto "Made in Germany", he proved once again that, despite his 70-year career and numerous gold records, he is far from being a thing of the past. Heino presented a potpourri of familiar local songs such as “Old Comrades” and “Karamba, Karacho, ein Whiskey”, which visibly thrilled the audience and invited them to sing along. Supported by two background singers and a teleprompter, he conjured up an evening that will be remembered, even if it is not a farewell tour.

Particularly striking was the term “Germany's last punk”, which alludes to the statement of Jello Biafra, the frontman of the Dead Kennedys. The merchandise, which offers shirts with eye-catching prints, is as provocative as the title. However, Heino's manager, Helmut Werner, protects him from discussions about possible accusations of racism that have arisen in connection with certain songs. Werner expressed concerns and pointed to Heino's innocence: "Discrimination is far from his mind," he said, while pointing out the long tradition of some of the controversial songs that have been sung for centuries without anyone being bothered. He is convinced that the negative interpretation of these songs does not reflect Heino's intention.

Cultural border crossings

Another aspect that makes the debate about Heino and his music exciting is the influence of cultural border crossings in music. As the debates about identity politics show, music can also serve as a platform for exchange between different cultures. Deutschlandfunk Kultur emphasizes that music should not be pigeonholed. Instead, we should celebrate the diversity and richness of melodies that arise from different cultural influences.

The question is whether the often criticized term “gypsy” should continue to be used in songs. While Heino sang in front of 3,500 fans at Oktoberfest and caused a stir, it became clear that not everyone agreed with his music. Although Heino's performance was described as "racist" on social media, his manager remains optimistic: "As long as people want to hear it, Heino will sing it," said Werner. It remains to be seen how the discussion about his music will develop and what challenges this could pose for Heino's future performances.

A look into the future

Of course, Heino is also planning for the future. More concerts in the legendary “Bierkönig” are coming up. Despite the shadows that may lie over his performances, the next appearance remains a longed-for event for many fans. Heino is convinced that folk music will continue to find its place in German musical culture in the future, and that is more than just a statement. It is the conviction of an artist for whom making music and connecting people is the focus - regardless of the prejudices that may be associated with his music.