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«We have, uh, lied»: The audacious return of the stars
🇨🇭 Switzerland /Culture & Society

«We have, uh, lied»: The audacious return of the stars

From Neue Zürcher Zeitung · (7m ago) German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • German pop singer Peter Kraus is embarking on his eighth farewell tour at the age of 87, a move that highlights a common, often criticized, practice in the entertainment industry.
  • Kraus admits the first three farewell tours were marketing ploys to boost ticket sales, while later ones were more sincere, coinciding with personal ventures like owning a vineyard.
  • The article draws parallels to other artists like Cher and Ozzy Osbourne who have had multiple farewell tours, questioning the necessity and authenticity of such prolonged goodbyes in show business.

The NZZ observes a peculiar phenomenon in the entertainment world: the seemingly endless farewell tour. Peter Kraus, a German pop icon, is embarking on his eighth such tour, a testament to a show business trope that has become almost a running gag.

We have, uh, lied.

— Peter KrausPeter Kraus admits that his early farewell tours were marketing ploys.

Kraus himself admits that the initial farewell tours were mere marketing stunts, designed to boost ticket sales. This candid admission sheds light on the often cynical strategies employed to keep artists in the spotlight and capitalize on their legacy. It raises questions about authenticity and the audience's willingness to accept these repeated goodbyes.

The first three were a PR gag.

— Peter KrausPeter Kraus confesses the initial purpose of his farewell tours.

The article contrasts Kraus's situation with other artists like Cher and Ozzy Osbourne, whose own protracted farewells have become legendary. It prompts reflection on why artists feel compelled to continue touring, whether it's financial necessity, a genuine inability to let go of the stage, or a calculated strategy to maintain relevance. The NZZ suggests that perhaps, in an era of constant digital connection, the traditional 'final' performance might be losing its impact.

From the fourth one onwards, I meant it more seriously.

— Peter KrausPeter Kraus explains his evolving intentions with his farewell tours.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Neue Zürcher Zeitung in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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