The controversial singer Xavier Naidoo Germany is not the Euro Vision Song Contest (ESC) represented in the next year. The North German Radio (NDR) on Saturday pulled his nomination back, like the station announced.
“It was clear that he polarized, but the brunt of the reactions surprised us. We have misjudged, “said ARD entertainment coordinator Thomas Schreiber. Naidoo responded with a curt comment.
The NDR had informed on Thursday that the 44-year-old to sing for Germany, without that he would have to prevail in a preliminary round against other candidates. In contrast, violent resistance encouraged. On the Internet several petitions were running against the ARD plans. The Lesbian and Gay Association (LSVD) described the nomination as “extremely critical”. Even the politicians were negative reactions
Multiple did the singer initiated discussions -. About when he spoke on the Day of German Unity 2014 right-wing populist Reich citizens, do not recognize Germany as a sovereign state. 2012 called the lyrics of the song “Where are they now” by Naidoo and Kool Savas anger out. There it goes in very vulgar language to Child Murders -. Passages were criticized as homophobic, homosexuals would equated with pedophiles
“The ongoing discussions could seriously harm the ESC,” said Schreiber. “For this reason, Xavier Naidoo will not start for Germany.” As soon as possible should be decided, as the German contribution to the ESC in Stockholm found. The NDR has the lead role for the ESC within the ARD. Schreiber emphasized at the same time: “. Xavier Naidoo is an outstanding singer who is homophobic yet I am convinced that neither racist”
Naidoo appeared combative: “My passion for music and my commitment to love, freedom, tolerance and cooperation is thus not slowed down. “He made the same clear that the decision is not for Germany to sing at the Grand Prix, had been taken unilaterally. “When shortly after our contractual agreement with the NDR and the completion of all preparations have changed by unilateral decision now planning the ARD, then that’s ok for me.”
Even on Saturday, had the concert promoters Marek asked Lieberberg (“Rock am Ring”) in plain words behind Naidoo. Overlooking the allegations against the singer from Mannheim Lieberberg said: “I am deeply shocked by the incredible agitation, the sickening hypocrisy and blind hatred, for which there is no justification!” He had never had in over 20 years feel that at Naidoo “even the hint of an anti-Semitic, racist, xenophobic or nationalist sentiment exists”.
Several politicians welcomed the other hand, that the NDR withdrew the nomination. The SPD deputy Niels Annen said on Twitter: “Right decision. Mistakes happen, well if they are quickly corrected “The Green Volker Beck wrote:”. Now applies: everything can be better “
Naidoo, Mannheim with Indian and African roots, has sold his albums millions in Germany , With “This way,” he delivered the 2006 hit for football Sommermärchen. He was awarded the Echo six times, most recently this year.
The next ESC-final will take place in May 2016. in Stockholm after the Swede Måns Zelmerlöw had with his song “Heroes” won this year. Zelmerlöw also had to contend with homophobia accusations.
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