BY FILIPA MOREIRA l PUBLISHED: 15.11.2023
In the world of German rock music, Die Toten Hosen, stands out as a band that has not only endured the test of time but has also left an indelible mark on the global music scene. We had the unique opportunity to delve into the thoughts, experiences, and insights of one of the band's founding members and guitarist, Michael Breitkopf. In this exclusive interview, we get to the heart of his remarkable journey as a musician, his role in shaping Die Toten Hosen's legacy, and his thoughts on the ever-evolving landscape of rock. Join us as we take a deep dive into the life of Breiti and his enduring influence on the music that has inspired generations.
Altes Fieber
Breiti's journey into the world of music is a captivating tale of early influences and a burning passion for the guitar. From an early age, the sounds of legendary bands like The Who, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, T.Rex, and Led Zeppelin began to shape his musical tastes. Songs like "20th Century Boy" by T.Rex left an indelible mark on his artistic soul, and the guitar sounds that can be found in this song, evoked his interest for music and for the art of playing the guitar. In his teenage years, inspired by a friend, whom he considered to be a very good guitarist, and the urgent desire to learn how to play the guitar, he says, he embarked on a self-taught journey, which due to a lot of dedication resulted in mastering the instrument. The punk rock revolution, with its raw energy and rebellious spirit, sparked his dreams of being on stage alongside his favourite bands. When Die Toten Hosen, close friends of Breiti and pioneers of the German punk scene, called and invited him to join them, he didn't hesitate for a moment. Nonetheless, Breiti, states that little did they know that the formation of their band would be the consequence a remarkable journey, one that none of them could have fathomed would become a lifelong career.
Soundtrack of Rebellion
In the early days of Die Toten Hosen, a wave of punk rock rebellion swept them up, and their voyage through the world of Rock' N 'Roll, began with a fire ignited by the late 1970s punk movement. Bands like the Damned, the Clash, the UK Subs, the Ramones, and countless others infused their spirits with a surge of energy and a profound sense of purpose. The principles of "DIY," or "Do it yourself," resonated deeply, instilling the self-confidence to forge ahead as a band, even when their grasp on their instruments was far from expert. Their confidence, led them to establish their own record label, enabling them to release their initial singles -an endeavour that might have been an insurmountable challenge under the umbrella of major record companies. Moreover, the inherent anti-racism in the punk scene struck a chord with Die Toten Hosen, and they wholeheartedly embraced this movement. The first years of the band, were marked by a delightful chaos, yet they were also rich in experiences, adventures, and connections with people, driven by their shared passion for the music they were creating and the indomitable spirit of the band.
All die ganzen Jahre
Throughout the years, the band has been a huge success, and has gained popularity among various generations. With the evolution of music, Die Toten Hosen's tried to reinvent their sound, while preserving the band's core essence reflects an artful balance between tradition and innovation. Breiti acknowledges that their roots are inherently woven into their music, an unmistakable DNA that grounds each new composition. However, it's in the nuanced details and subtle variations that they continuously breathe new life into their sound. Experimenting with different styles and meticulously reimagining the minutiae of their music - tweaking melodies, exploring alternative harmonies—provides a path to renewal. While these adjustments may not be revolutionary in themselves, they collectively contribute to a sense of freshness, not just for the audience but also, importantly, for the artists themselves. This willingness to embrace change and explore new dimensions within the framework of their distinctive style is an enduring testament to Die Toten Hosen's musical evolution.
Tage wie diese
"Tage wie diese" stands as one of Die Toten Hosen's most iconic tracks, and Breiti sheds light on the song's inspiration. At its heart, the song captures the essence of those moments when you gather with friends to go to some event, whether it is a concert, a football game, a fun fair, or something else. It beautifully encapsulates the feeling of friendship, and the sheer joy of being in the company of loved ones as you set out for an event. The beauty of the song lies in its open-ended nature, allowing listeners to attach their own memories and experiences to it. As a result, "Tage wie diese" has transcended its original context to become a powerful anthem for countless occasions. Its widespread appeal is evident as it is played in celebrations of sport teams when they win a title, weddings, and even in moments of loss at funerals. Breiti says, that the song has taken on a life of its own, a testament to its timeless and relatable message that resonates deeply with people from all walks of life.
Die Toten Hosen, are known for various songs such as "Europa," "Willkommen in Deutschland," and "Wünsch dir was," which have resulted in the need for meaningful conversations surrounding social issues and the vast spectrum of human emotions. For the band, the importance behind addressing these topics through music is to convey their thoughts and emotions authentically. In doing so, the band seeks to inspire reflection and provoke thought in their audience. It's about creating a sense of connection, assuring people that they're not alone in their thoughts and opinions. Witnessing thousands of voices singing in unison to songs that stand against racism and fascism, for example, during a live concert can be a powerful, energising experience. Die Toten Hosen's music transcends the stage, becoming a source of empowerment and fostering a sense of unity in the ongoing conversations about vital social issues and the rich tapestry of human feelings.
Alles aus Liebe
Among their discography , songs like "Hier kommt Alex" and "Pushed Again" hold a unique place in the band's heart, evoking powerful memories each time they perform them. These songs have the remarkable ability to create moments of extraordinary resonance, connecting the band with their audience. When it comes to memories, a notable chuckle escapes, Breiti says, when they performed their song "Opel Gang" in a sold out football stadium. Describing, that it is in these moments that the surreal transformation of the band, evolving from the chaos of their early years to the legendary status they now hold after four incredible decades, becomes wonderfully tangible. These songs stand as enduring touchstones, both for the band and their ever-loyal fans, reminding everyone of the remarkable journey they've undertaken together.
Achterbahn Feelings
Die Toten Hosen's legendary live performances are known to be very energetic and electrifying. Breiti states that everyone has it’s own method to get ready for the tour, nonetheless, he says, that the band members like to compare concert to football games. Just as a football team takes to the pitch with a shared determination to give their all, the band hits the stage with the same fervor, always striving to deliver their best performance. To ensure they are in top form comparably with football players, Die Toten Hosen engage in a pre-season of sorts, by playing test matches in smaller venues before going on a major tour. This careful warm-up allows them to fine-tune their musical prowess and connect intimately with their audience. Their commitment to excellence has resulted in countless memorable concerts, each a testament to their passion, energy, and enduring love for the music they bring to life on stage.
Breiti reflects on the remarkable longevity and continued success of the band, acknowledging the deep gratitude they feel for their dedicated and ever-growing fan base. Saying, that without the enduring interest and support of their fans, the band's incredible journey would not have been possible. However, he also emphasizes a crucial aspect of their success: Die Toten Hosen were not merely a confluence of great musicians but a close-knit gang of friends, bound by an unbreakable sense of loyalty. This enduring camaraderie, grounded in a shared passion for the band, has been a driving force from their inception and continues to fuel their artistic journey to this day. It is this combination of unwavering friendship, a deep connection with their audience, and a relentless love for their music that has solidified Die Toten Hosen's place in the music history.
The members deep-rooted connection to their hometown Düsseldorf, is an integral part of Die Toten Hosen's identity and creative inspiration. Düsseldorf, alongside Berlin and Hamburg, emerged as a vibrant hub for the punk rock movement in Germany, allowing influential bands to show off their music in the "Ratinger Hof”. It was here that they discovered a community of like-minded artists and music enthusiasts, as well as an art academy scene that left a significant imprint on the local cultural landscape. The city's energy, its punk spirit, and the diverse artistic influences it offered became instrumental in shaping the band's music and lyrics, anchoring them to their roots and providing a unique and enduring source of inspiration.
Fear of Failure
Breiti candidly addresses the complexities that come with success, highlighting how Die Toten Hosen grappled with their growing recognition. While the fear of failure wasn't their primary concern, they faced other challenges. The band's journey also entailed learning how to navigate the media and the shifting perception of being part of an establishment they had once rebelled against. Yet, they found a guiding light in their roots, firmly grounded in the values of the punk rock movement. These core principles helped them stay true to themselves and navigate the intricate landscape of success without losing sight of their initial ideals and rebellious spirit.
“Without music, life would be a mistake”
Breiti beautifully encapsulates the profound essence of music in response to Nietzsche's assertion that "Without music, life would be a mistake." He aptly emphasises that engaging in music, whether it's playing, listening, or coming together for a live concert, serves as a transformative experience that brings out the very essence of being human. Just as ancient paintings and timeless stories endure as great works of art, music has remained an intrinsic part of human expression throughout the ages. It is a medium that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, resonating with the deepest core of our humanity. In this light, Breiti, agrees with Nietzsche’s statement, reflecting the timeless and universal significance of music in the human experience.
The Transformative Power of Music
Breiti, recognises the profound role of music in empowering and inspiring youth, as well as individuals of all ages. Music's ability to evoke strong emotions and the communal experience of attending concerts provide a wellspring of positive energy that can resonate throughout one's life, irrespective of age. The pandemic's absence of these shared musical experiences served as a poignant reminder of their significance. Playing an instrument, whether individually or within a band, offers a deeply fulfilling creative outlet. While songs and music may not single-handedly change the world, they possess the remarkable power to convey and propagate good values. In this way, he thinks, that music can have a profound and positive impact on individuals, nurturing their sense of purpose, creativity, and fostering a deeper connection to the world around them.
Future Projects
Breiti shares the band's gratitude for their enduring journey and the unwavering passion they have for their craft. Their commitment to Die Toten Hosen remains resolute, and they look ahead with an open mind to see what the future holds. While the specifics of their forthcoming projects may be uncertain, one thing is clear: their dedication and love for the music that has defined their lives will continue to drive them forward. Fans can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the remarkable story of Die Toten Hosen, certain that it will bring with it more memorable music and captivating projects that honor their rich legacy.
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