Today marks the 90th birthday of the singer Udo Jürgens. What does he have to do with the spa town of Meran and why was he terrified of the FPÖ?
Udo Jürgens, a renowned songwriter with almost 1000 song titles to his name, was born 90 years ago in a city where he struggled to address the dark history of his grandfather’s generation. Yesterday’s election results once again highlighted this struggle, showing the impact of right-wing sentiments in Klagenfurt, Carinthia, and Austria. How can one resist against the far-right and their revisionist statements? Perhaps through music, like that of a Carinthian artist on this commemorative day?
Manfred Bockelmann, an artist known for bringing the youngest victims of the Nazi regime to light, shared that Udo Jürgens was also politically engaged. Despite his popular hits, Jürgens expressed political views in many of his songs. Bockelmann emphasized the importance of finding the right path to express such sentiments.
Jürgens‘ political views were shaped by his love for his homeland of Carinthia and Austria, but he found it challenging due to the political climate. He openly criticized Jörg Haider for fueling fascist tendencies and faced uncomfortable situations when Haider sought proximity to his art and persona. Bockelmann, like his brother Udo Jürgens, was born in Klagenfurt, and both shared a connection to Meran through their grandfather’s burial site. The family’s visits to Meran were bittersweet, tinged with the complexities of their familial history.
Carinthia’s political landscape, particularly its approach to minority issues, has been contentious. Unlike other Austrian states, Carinthia did not financially support South Tyrol after World War II due to its unique minority politics. This approach reflected a reluctance to support Carinthian Slovenes within the region, showcasing a history of neglect for minority rights. These tensions have been further highlighted by discussions led by journalist Claus Gatterer in the 1970s, who faced backlash for shedding light on these issues.
The rise of politicians like Herbert Kickl, known for his controversial statements and rapid ascent within the political sphere, raises concerns about the future of Austrian politics. Kickl’s views on South Tyrol and his potential role as Chancellor pose questions about the country’s direction. Despite these challenges, Udo Jürgens‘ legacy remains celebrated, as evidenced by the belated but significant recognition of a square named after him in Villach in 2019.
As Udo Jürgens once sang, „Beloved fatherland, what should I thank you for?“ This sentiment resonates with many in and around Austria, reflecting on the complexities of patriotism and national identity. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, Udo Jürgens‘ legacy endures, reminding us to reflect on history and strive for a more inclusive future.