Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters, who was confronted with allegations of anti-Semitism, was cheered at the German start of his “This Is Not A Drill” tour in Hamburg.
About 6500 spectators came to the Barclays Arena. Waters received applause not only for big hits from the Pink Floyd era and from his career as a solo artist, but also when he addressed the anti-Semitism allegations.
“A court in Frankfurt has decided that I’m not an anti-Semite. Excellent,” Waters’ voice sounded in English from the loudspeakers shortly before the concert began. The corresponding text appeared on the screen above the stage. The 79-year-old said he condemned anti-Semitism unreservedly and couldn’t say how much he was looking forward to the performance in Frankfurt.
Recently there had been nationwide criticism of the British musician’s performances (“Wish You Were Here”), which are also due in Cologne, Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt am Main in May. The concert in Frankfurt should initially be canceled. However, Waters had appealed against the decision and was right. In its decision, the Frankfurt administrative court referred, among other things, to artistic freedom.
Among other things, Waters has been criticized for his proximity to the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) campaign, which calls for a comprehensive boycott of the State of Israel. At previous concerts, the singer also released pig-shaped balloons with a Star of David.
