The veteran German singer Howard Carpendale has expressed gratitude for having navigated a career where he no longer feels compelled to perform overtly romantic or suggestive material. In a recent interview with the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” (NOZ), Carpendale reflected on his evolving perspective on songwriting and performance, particularly as he approaches his 80th birthday.
“I’m very, very thankful that it’s not expected of me” Carpendale stated, acknowledging that the subject matter he explored earlier in his career felt appropriate within the context of his age and experience at the time. He praised his colleague Roland Kaiser’s success with those types of songs while asserting that his own artistic path has shifted.
Carpendale emphasized his commitment to consistently delivering his most popular hits during live performances. He voiced disapproval of artists who eschew their signature songs, citing Barbra Streisand as an example. “The fans are there because of those hits” he said, adding that he finds joy in incorporating unexpected elements, such as audience members spontaneously adding rap interludes during performances of classics like “Das schöne Mädchen von Seite eins”.
However, Carpendale expressed considerable concern regarding the financial models of contemporary streaming services. He lamented a perceived shift in the entertainment industry towards a profit-driven mindset, suggesting a decline in the presence of the passionate, creative individuals who once defined it.
“Unfortunately, the money from streaming is going to the people who already have it” Carpendale explained. “The creative people who made this industry possible are going away empty-handed. It’s an injustice”. While acknowledging that the changes have less direct impact on him personally, he highlighted the plight of songwriters struggling to earn a living in the current environment. He believes the system has fundamentally altered the landscape for many talented lyricists.