Sebastian Krumbiegel calls for empathy toward AfD voters and warns of rising nationalism

Sebastian Krumbiegel, the 60‑year‑old frontman of the German pop group Die Prinzen, told Playboy that voters for the far‑right AfD should not be dismissed as “zombies”. He urged understanding of the fears and dissatisfaction that drive some people to the party, noting that many feel abandoned by a lack of services in rural areas.

Krumbiegel condemned any racist or antisemitic rhetoric, saying it must be stopped at the line “bis hierhin und nicht weiter”. He warned of a global “back‑sliding into nationalist and völkisch ideas”, describing the trend as “quite frightening”. The singer also highlighted music as a “real magic weapon” to reach people emotionally without preaching.

The artist is currently touring with the Thüringen Philharmonic Orchestra to mark Die Prinzen’s 35th anniversary and plans a farewell tour of about 20 open‑air concerts starting in October 2027.