Choirs in Berlin are stroking controversial word from Lindenberg-Hit!

Choirs in Berlin are stroking controversial word from Lindenberg-Hit!

an outcry in Berlin! Udo Lindenberg's legendary hit "Special train to Pankow" is revised, and for good reason!

In two planned appearances in November, several Berlin choirs have decided to delete the word "Oberindianer" from the song of 1983. The Humboldt Forum Foundation, which is behind this decision, explains that the word can be perceived as discriminatory today. Instead, the singers want to sing "Ober" and a long "i" "I" in order to take into account the cultural context. This decision follows an open discussion with the choirs and the artistic direction.

the word with a dark story

Udo Lindenberg, who appealed to the then GDR head of state Erich Honecker with his cheeky song, is now the focus of the debate. The text, which was once satirically meant, is now considered problematic. The foundation emphasizes that the word "Oberindianer" was not only used metaphorically, but also resonates the "history of violence of colonization". Many people, especially from indigenous communities, perceive it as discriminatory and racist.

The appearances of the choirs are part of the format "Muddly 2024", which deals with the special exhibition "There is no way. Lindenberg itself was unavailable for comment. The concerts take place on November 16 and 17 and promise to become an exciting chapter in dealing with our cultural history.