"You are essential"

Die Ärzte call on people to vote with a new song

Die Ärzte at the Frequency Festival 2023

(Bild: APA/FLORIAN WIESER)

The Berlin band Die Ärzte have now called on people to vote in the European elections. They have released the song "Demokratie" (Democracy), which is a hymn to personal responsibility. "You are essential, it can't be done without you", it says.

A reference to one's own possibilities is also included. "If you're wondering how to make the world a better place: How about voting? Your cross against swastikas, that's where it starts." Another message appears at the end of the video. "Voting is the highest privilege in a democracy. If you don't, you may soon not be able to vote."

Voting is the highest privilege in a democracy. If you do without it, you may soon no longer be able to vote.

Videobotschaft der Ärzte

"Everyone is shouting, everyone is right"
"We actually live in a democratic state that stands rock-solid on its basic order and yet democracy seems to be a good that needs to be protected more than ever," said drummer Bela B (61) on the release of the new song. Germany is becoming more and more like the USA, added guitarist Farin Urlaub (60). "Everyone shouts, nobody listens anymore; everyone is right, mistakes are always made by others; and compromises are already considered a defeat."

Numerous clips from the band are quoted in the AI-based video, including "Schrei nach Liebe". Released in 1994, the song is considered an anthem against right-wing extremism and is always celebrated at the punk rock band's concerts.

Committed for years
The band members have been politically and socially active for years. The video features an avatar of Farin Urlaub in the German Bundestag. "We act politically as a band because neutrality is not an option these days. However, I personally would be extremely unsuitable as a real politician, if only for lack of any competence," Urlaub said.

We act politically as a band because neutrality is not an option these days. As a real politician, however, I personally would be extremely unsuitable, if only for lack of any competence.

Gitarrist Farin Urlaub

"Our opinions, our comments are read differently and perhaps more honestly for many people than those of many politicians," said Bela B. But unlike politicians, you don't have to make any compromises.