1. FC Köln released a remix of Willi Ostermann’s 1936 classic Heimweh nach Köln on Wednesday triggering sharp criticism from supporters on social media.
The club presented the project at the Heumarkt stage alongside club president Jörn Stobbe to mark the start of the new carnival session.
The release pairs Ostermann’s original 1936 vocal track with contemporary electronic beats. The physical release pairs the original recording on the A-side with the new remix on the B-side, following a special jersey release honoring the late artist earlier in the year.
“Aus dem Klassiker wird ein Stück, das auf der Tanzfläche genauso funktioniert wie in der Kneipe und zu Hause auf dem Plattenspieler,” the club stated of the track.
Supporters immediately took to online platforms to voice their disapproval of the modernized tribute. Commenters labeled the project a disaster and claimed the historic artist would be turning in his grave.
“Das kann nur ein Aprilscherz im November sein,” one fan wrote in an online comment.
“Das ist einfach nur grausam!” another user posted.
Other supporters welcomed the updated arrangement. Positive reactions included messages thanking the creators for the fresh spin on the traditional anthem.
Ralf Schlegelmilch, president of the Willi-Ostermann-Gesellschaft, defended the project and urged fans to accept artistic experimentation. He said that he avoids social media but was briefed on the public debate.
“Ein Remix ist es meiner Meinung nach nicht, denn wir hören ja die originale Stimme Ostermanns, die mit Beats nur unterlegt ist,” Schlegelmilch said.
Schlegelmilch emphasized that creative engagement with historical cultural figures keeps their memory alive for younger generations. He also referenced past censorship attempts by Carnival committee leaders against artists like Brings to highlight his opposition to banning creative works.
“Das Publikum entscheidet letztlich, ob er sich durchsetzt oder nicht,” Schlegelmilch said.
The seven-hour opening program featured additional modern interpretations, including a Kölsch version of Gut genug performed by Blumengarten right after the FC presentation. Organizers maintained that traditional elements remained the core focus of the sessions opening.
“Wir als Ostermann-Gesellschaft bleiben bei unserer bewährten Hymne, die wir nach jeder Veranstaltung am Ende auch singen. Und weiterhin so singen werden,” Schlegelmilch said.
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