A candid conversation with Jürgen Engler from legendary DIE KRUPPS while touring in Japan
DIE KRUPPS is a German industrial rock band that was formed in 1980. They are considered one of the pioneers of the industrial music genre and have made significant contributions to its development and popularity. The band was founded by Jürgen Engler and Ralf Dörper, who sought to combine heavy metal, punk, and electronic music to create a unique and powerful sound. DIE KRUPPS gained recognition for their aggressive and industrial-influenced sound, characterized by heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and electronic elements. They were one of the first bands to incorporate electronic instruments and samples into their music, helping to shape the industrial music genre. Their early albums, such as Stahlwerksinfonie (1981) and Volle Kraft Voraus! (1982), established DIE KRUPPS as a force to be reckoned with in the industrial music scene. They continued to release influential albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including Entering the Arena (1985) and Paradise Now (1997). DIE KRUPPS’ impact on the industrial music scene extends beyond their music. They were known for their energetic and intense live performances, which helped solidify their reputation as a must-see act. They also collaborated with other notable artists, such as Nitzer Ebb and Ministry, further expanding their influence and reach. DIE KRUPPS’ innovative sound, powerful live performances, and collaborations have made them an important and influential band in the industrial music scene. They have left a lasting impact on the genre and continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
––This is the second tour of DIE KRUPPS in Japan in less than a year. Why did it take so long to come the first time and so little time to come back? Did you enjoy it so much that you wanted to come back as soon as possible?
Jürgen: Absolutely! We were incredibly eager to come back to Japan. Our first tour here last year was an absolutely amazing experience. I can’t even find the words to fully explain it. Throughout our career, DIE KRUPPS has played in many, many countries around the world, especially in Western countries. Japan was a completely new adventure for us, and it turned out to be a unique and unforgettable experience in every way. When we first came to Japan, we had no idea what to expect. We were filled with excitement and anticipation as we ventured into the unknown. And from the moment we arrived, everything was perfect. The fans were incredibly passionate and dedicated, the team supporting us was fantastic, the people we met in general were warm and welcoming, and the country itself was beautiful. And let’s not forget the excellent food! It was truly a dream come true. The concerts we performed were absolutely amazing. The energy and enthusiasm from the Japanese audience were unlike anything we had ever experienced before. The connection we felt with the fans was incredible. After the shows, we had autograph sessions that lasted between 2 and 3 hours because the fans were so eager to meet us and show their support. We received so many heartfelt gifts and had the opportunity to connect with our fans on a personal level. It was an incredible experience that left a lasting impression on us. So, when the opportunity arose to come back to Japan for a second tour, we didn’t hesitate for a moment. We wanted to come back as soon as possible to relive that incredible experience and continue building on the connections we made with our Japanese fans. This time around, things already feel more familiar, but the excitement and joy are just as strong as the first time. We’ve had the pleasure of seeing familiar faces in the crowd, and it’s been truly heartwarming. In fact, we recently met a fan who was moved to tears with emotion, and it was an incredibly touching moment for all of us. The warmth and hospitality of the Japanese people make playing here truly special. It’s a unique and cherished experience for us as a band. We are grateful for the opportunity to perform in Japan and to have such passionate and dedicated fans who have supported us throughout our journey. We are truly honored to be able to share our music with them and to continue building on the connections we’ve made.
––You seem to be deeply touched by the attention that fans give you. A lot of artists like to be inaccessible.
Jürgen: That is absolutely not the case for us. It is not at all my philosophy of life. What’s the point of doing that? I like to be close to the fans, to have human interactions. I want to connect with people. I enjoy direct contact and I actively seek out these interactions as much as possible. I thrive on these connections. Especially here in Japan, there is a warm and friendly atmosphere. After the concert, the audience discreetly and politely comes up to us, often bringing gifts and thanking us for coming all the way here to see them. It’s great to be able to meet them, talk to them, and exchange with them. We have always had a special connection with Japan. In fact, in the early days of DIE KRUPPS’ career, an artist known as Agi Yuzuru came to one of our concerts and recorded the entire set with his state-of-the-art equipment at the time. A few months later, he published excerpts from the concert as an audio supplement in a Japanese music magazine. It was a very elaborate production. To honor our love for the country, we decided to translate our lyrics into Japanese and include some writings in the language on our second album. Unfortunately, we never had the opportunity to perform here before. For various reasons, it didn’t work out. In the 1990s, we had scheduled a few dates, but we had to cancel. The band was falling apart at the time. We couldn’t stand each other anymore due to intensive and brief tours. But now, being able to finally perform in Japan is a dream come true. It’s a chance for us to connect with our Japanese fans on a deeper level and show our appreciation for their support over the years. We are truly grateful for their love and dedication. So, being accessible and having that direct connection with fans is something we cherish. It’s not about being distant or untouchable. It’s about sharing the music, the energy, and the emotions together. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.
––Now that the band is back in a positive energy, will you continue to come to Japan?
Jürgen: Of course! We want to do an annual tour in Japan. We have already planned our return in 2017. We have always wanted to come to Japan. We have always been interested in its history, culture, food, and music. In the early 1980s, I even started learning Japanese, but I had to put it aside because I didn’t have a teacher. And this language requires a rigorous learning process. But it’s a country that has attracted me for decades. I have always felt drawn to it. Our first trip was a success, and the second one as well. So, of course, I want to come back as much as possible.
––Have you noticed any differences between American, European, and Japanese audiences?
Jürgen: Absolutely. Each audience has its own unique characteristics and energy. In general, the Japanese audience is often seen as reserved and introverted. While that may be true in public, when they come to see DIE KRUPPS, they transform into a lively, enthusiastic, and extroverted crowd. They embody everything an artist could dream of. They are positive, happy to be there, and always show great respect and generosity. Unlike Western countries where audiences can sometimes be more aggressive and confrontational, the Japanese audience tends to be more polite and respectful. They listen attentively, cheer loudly, and engage with the music on a deep emotional level. It’s incredible to witness the connection they have with the music and the band. One thing I particularly appreciate about the Japanese audience is their pure and positive energy. They bring a sense of joy and excitement to the shows, and their enthusiasm is contagious. They often smile a lot and enjoy themselves like children, although that doesn’t mean they can’t go wild. When the music hits, they let loose and create an amazing atmosphere. While I have had the opportunity to perform for incredible audiences all over the world, I must admit that the Tokyo audience holds a special place in my heart. The energy and passion they bring to the shows are truly unparalleled. The Tokyo audience is truly one of the best in the world. It’s fascinating how different cultures can bring their own unique elements to the concert experience.
––Do you have any interesting stories from your trips to Japan? Have you ever experienced Japanese toilets?
Jürgen: Oh, absolutely (laughs). Japanese toilets are just perfect, aren’t they (laughs)? They are truly the best in the world, I think we can all agree on that. I genuinely love them. In fact, I sometimes get a bit disappointed when there are only two buttons on the side. I enjoy trying out all the different functions and seeing what they do (laughs). But every day in Japan is an adventure. Japanese and English are very different languages, and most Japanese people don’t speak English fluently. So, you often find yourself using a combination of words and sign language to communicate. I can’t recall a specific anecdote that stands out, but I do remember one little mishap we had. When we arrived in Tokyo from Osaka, our luggage was inspected by security. A young security officer approached us and asked if we had any dangerous items, drugs, or illegal substances. Her boss, who looked like a very serious sumo wrestler, seemed to have some suspicions, perhaps because musicians have a reputation for being alcoholics and drug users. It’s quite ironic for someone like me, as I don’t even drink beer. I have never consumed alcohol or taken drugs, and I never will. Anyway, I gave the security officer permission to search my suitcase, and as she did, she came across my collection of underwear. You see, I don’t have regular, plain black underwear. I have boxers with funny patterns, like skulls inspired by the Mexican Day of the Dead, and others with bulldogs. It was quite amusing to see her take them out one by one, and she actually seemed to appreciate each pair. I had a good laugh, but it didn’t last long because the whole process took so much time that we ended up missing our flight. It felt like a scene from a movie (laughs).
––As someone who has lived both in Europe and America, what are your preferences when it comes to these 2 continents?
Jürgen: Oh, where do I begin? There are several things that I dislike about Europe and the United States. Let’s start with Germany. I have a love-hate relationship with my home country. On one hand, I appreciate the support and enthusiasm of our German fans, but on the other hand, I can’t stand the mentality of many Germans. There is a certain level of ignorance and arrogance that I find frustrating. It’s a combination that doesn’t sit well with me. Unfortunately, I feel like this mentality has spread throughout Europe. The overall atmosphere in the Old Continent is not something that resonates with me. While it’s a great place to visit for its historical significance, I don’t find it particularly appealing to live in. As for the United States, I have my fair share of grievances as well. I despise the fact that 48% of Republicans voted for Trump. It’s disheartening to see such ignorance and lack of critical thinking. The American voting system, which led to the election of both Bush and Trump, is another aspect that I dislike. It’s frustrating to witness the consequences of these choices. However, it’s important to note that every country has its share of idiots. Once you venture outside the big cities, you encounter plenty of backward-thinking individuals, which can be quite disheartening. Moving on to the rise of extreme parties in Europe, it’s not surprising to see a trend towards identity retreat. The issue of migration has played a significant role in shaping the political discourse in Europe, and unfortunately, it has led to a lack of coexistence among different cultures. As immigrants ourselves, you and I can attest to the importance of integrating into the society and culture of the country that welcomes us. It’s a matter of showing gratitude and respect to those who open their arms to us. In the United States, immigrants often aspire to become American and embrace the values and traditions of their new home. However, in Europe, it seems that many immigrants don’t have the same desire to become German, French, or any other nationality. This lack of integration can lead to the formation of ethnic enclaves, where certain groups mainly consist of men and don’t mix with the native population. It’s something that I find surprising and concerning to witness in Europe. In conclusion, there are aspects of both Europe and the United States that I dislike. However, it’s important to remember that every country has its flaws and challenges. It’s up to us as individuals to strive for understanding, empathy, and positive change in the societies we live in.
––It seems that RAMMSTEIN was heavily influenced by DIE KRUPPS at the beginning of their career, with many of their songs bearing resemblance to ours. Today, RAMMSTEIN has become one of the most well-known German bands. How do you feel about that?
Jürgen: Yes, it’s true that they were influenced by us. We were actually friends at one point, but unfortunately, that friendship has faded. I remember back in 1995 when they invited us to one of their concerts. They played the song “Tier” that night, and I couldn’t help but notice how similar it was to our own song, “The Dawning of Doom.” I approached Richard (Kruspe) backstage and humbly asked him to credit me on their next album for the inspiration. However, they didn’t fulfill that request, and I didn’t want to make a big fuss about it. I let it go, but it did bother me. I even tried to resolve the issue amicably through my publisher, who coincidentally also worked with them, but unfortunately, it didn’t work out. So, I sought the assistance of a music consultant in Germany, who explained to me that it’s not uncommon for artists to be influenced by what has come before in the world of popular music. Still, nothing came of it. Eventually, I reached out to my American agent, who sent a letter to RAMMSTEIN, indicating our intention to file a lawsuit. Shortly after, the record label, management, and the band themselves contacted me, and I was finally credited. However, our friendship did not survive this ordeal, which is a shame. I believe we could have resolved it amicably. All I wanted was recognition for the song I wrote and for them to acknowledge the part they used or were inspired by. I want to make it clear that I’m not envious of RAMMSTEIN’s success. DIE KRUPPS has made a significant impact on the music world, helping to launch and evolve genres like Industrial, EBM, and Industrial Metal. To me, that is worth more than any monetary gain. One major difference between RAMMSTEIN and DIE KRUPPS is the performance aspect. Like the band KISS, if you strip away the showmanship, there isn’t much left. This is just my personal opinion. When KISS decided to remove their makeup, their popularity suffered, and fewer people went to see them (laughs)…
––I share the same perspective.
Can you share any updates on what’s happening with DIE KRUPPS?
Jürgen: Absolutely! The band plans to continue touring. We have upcoming shows in South America in 2017, and we are also looking to return to Japan. Additionally, we have been discussing the possibility of visiting other countries like Malaysia and Singapore. Our goal for 2017 is to reach as many countries as possible. And of course, all of you are welcome to join us!
––Thank you for your time. I can’t wait to see you DIE KRUPPS perform.
Jürgen: My pleasure.
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Mandah FRÉNOT
(c) VMJ
