Ton Steine Scherben: A Unique Hybrid of Psychedelic Rock and Battle Song

Abstract

This article will examine the relationship of the anarchist rock group Ton Steine Scherben to the tradition of the German battle song. After setting the group in the context of the countercultural scene of West Berlin of the 1970s, the article will identify a key battle song trait in the group's militant lyrics that, combined with the music, are geared towards inspiring direct political action rather than mere critical contemplation. In this respect parallels will be drawn with approaches to radical political song from the 1848 Revolution and the Weimar Republic.