With the Donots and Madsen, two German acts position themselves with detailed statements against abuse of power in the music industry.
After the allegations of abuse against Rammstein singer Till Lindemann, a general discourse about abuse of power in the music industry is increasingly becoming the focus of many discussions about the responsibility of artists towards fans. Now, with the Donots and Madsen, two well-known German bands are taking a stand and showing solidarity with the victims.
Donots: “A Fat Elephant Called Abuse of Power”
“A fat elephant called abuse of power is currently in the room. A public debate that was long overdue,” write the Donots on their social networks. The band explains that they hope that “other artists will openly show solidarity with the victims of abuse of power and sexualised violence”. “All of us (and men in particular are explicitly mentioned here) can work very actively in our own bubble to ensure that the glorified romanticization of ‘sex, drugs and rock’n’roll’ has finally had its day. It’s not that difficult,” write the musicians.
Her appeal: “Respect for one another. responsibility for each other. In front of, on and behind the stage – just like in all other places. The devaluation of people and the systematic exploitation of positions of power must stop, regardless of whether it’s with bands, rappers (we’re deliberately staying male here too), actors, footballers, business bosses and so on.”
Madsen: “There is definitely a power imbalance between rock stars and fans”
Madsen also made a statement. “Of course we also condemn any other kind of abuse. We’ve been a band for almost 20 years, our lives mostly take place on concerts and stages. That’s why the current events are very close to our hearts,” writes the group around frontman Sebastian Madsen.
The band admits that by consensus, “everyone is free to do whatever they feel comfortable with.” However, as a public figure you have to be aware of your position of power: “People who are in the limelight and are adored must, however, be aware of their impact and power. Because there is definitely a power imbalance between rock star and fan that must not be exploited or abused under any circumstances.”