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Rammstein: A career of controversies
For these German rockers the showbiz is not just music and money; scandals have also boosted their career across the globe. They have been called neo-Nazis, phonographic advocates, and sexual violence promoters. Since their beginnings Rammstein, has courted scandals with their albums and live shows in a menu which presents sadomasochism, homosexuality, incest, abuse, necrophilia, cannibalism and sexual violence in the ‘main course’ of their lyrics. They, of course, top it all with the dessert: live performances including sex toys and pyrotechnical effects. The results have been as diverse as their work, including a visit to jail in the US. The Nazi and fascism polemic started in 1998 when the band launched the promotional video of their single “Stripped” that included footage images from the filmmaker Leni Riefenstah, well known for his support of the Third Reich. In those days the, Deputy Editor for the newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung, said that the footage was very suspicious and linked the band with national-socialism pride. A year later, while touring in the US, they found themselves behind bars after a gig in Massachusetts. That night, the front man and keyboard player were arrested by police and charged with lascivious behaviors. The specific offense occurred during the song "Buck Dich" when Lindemann simulated anal sex with Lorenz using a fake phallus. They have gained troubles regarding their performances in their country, as well. The ‘choreography’ for the song "Ich tue Dir weh" was also banned in Germany under a ruling that called offensive and harmful to young people and its violation could potentially be punished under German law.
Their albums have been part of the controversy. In 2009, their X production Liebe ist Für Alle Da was banned from displays in stores in their own country. The German authorities found the cover very offensive and harmful to young people and children due to its depictions of sadism and masochism. Some shocking images from the album artwork included the image of a masked Kruspe with a naked woman on his knees. The band had to deal with controversy for months later but they didn’t seem to feel uncomfortable. What is more, they seemed to enjoy it. Alarms sounded again when Rammstein launched “Wiener Blut,” a song with references to the story of Josef Fitz, the Austrian father accused and jailed for raping his daughter for 24 consecutive years. The band has declared in many occasions their left tendency and even wrote the song “Links 1 2 3” to make clear they are not connected and don’t support any kind of fascist or Nazi movement. Regarding the sexual and strong content in Rammstein’s lyrics, they have said they just reflect present day’s society. |
