Udo Lindenberg's Iconic Song Altered for Berlin Performance

The Humboldt Forum decides to modify lyrics from Lindenberg's 'Sonderzug nach Pankow' due to concerns over racial insensitivity.

The Humboldt Forum in Berlin has decided to alter the lyrics of Udo Lindenberg's 1983 hit 'Sonderzug nach Pankow' for upcoming choir performances.
The decision was made after discussions with choirs and the artistic director, aiming to replace the term 'Oberindianer' with 'Ober-I' to avoid perceived racial insensitivity.
The term 'Oberindianer' originally satirized DDR leader Erich Honecker, but is now considered by some as reflecting colonial violence against indigenous peoples.
The alteration has sparked a debate on artistic freedom, with critics labeling the move as 'cancel culture' and an unnecessary revision of history.
Lindenberg has not publicly commented on the change, which is set to be implemented at performances on November 16 and 17 at the Humboldt Forum.