The German newcomer is asking the questions of his generation, putting the finger where it hurts. But also connecting with his audience on a level that very few in the genre manage to do these days.
His debut single ‘Liebe > Hass’ (Love is bigger than hate) was a harsh contrast to recent releases in the industry. The hip-hop and rap scene, that has shifted its focus on show-boating and artificial streaming numbers, is in desperate need of a fresh breeze of air. The 20-year old couldn’t have picked a better time to put his name on the map. Refreshing also, that the young talent doesn’t try to please another generation’s nostalgia or retro aspirations. Within a contemporary sound, Poldi addresses the topics and issues he faces in his daily life. And builds a foundation for millions of others to identify with.
A young generation, that against all prejudice is taking more responsibility of society’s urgent tasks and discussions than it probably should have to. Which is why Leopold Karrer is asking the right questions when he raps “why do we, the youngest, have to take care of the aftermath of your past irresponsibilities?”
With nations being split in half by egoistic interests, extremist regimes, and the harmful power of social media all over the world, the newcomer makes a pledge for peace and unity. Poldi knows his craft very well, and knows how to break down complex thoughts in his bars. Why do likes and reactions to online content define validations and replace the feeling of love these days, why do we allow these things to take over our irreplaceable values?
These questions don’t miss their point aiming at the current music industry either. The artists that Poldi grew up with represented something very different, than the landscape shaped by the commercial position of the genre today.
Authenticity and values
Rapping about money and showing off has always been a part of rap. But artists used to live up to what they represented. These days, most newcomers chase an image that is far from their actual identity. Does it take it more or less art? Hard to tell. But it makes it much less likely that a listener fully identifies with his favourite artist. Something that Poldi could never pursue, the genuine connection between his audience and himself is one of the main drives.
“It’s not about showing off. I want people to feel as if we’re on the same level and have similar issues. There wouldn’t be a point in talking about a lifestyle I don’t care about. I want people to know that I actually care about my listeners and the subjects I speak upon. This provides a special connection between the listener and the artist, which bragging about my wealth just won’t cut.”.
The national music scene in Germany has a written a few success stories with similar ingredients, and artists such as RIN or Prinz Pi prove that authenticity pays of – or realness as it once was established.
