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Negative White
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Music is better when shared. — A music newsletter for curious minds.

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The first single since their 2024 album, „Songs of Homecoming“, finds The Beauty of Gemina returning to their sonic roots. A song that captures a seemingly futile feeling perfectly.
The Beauty of Gemina – Endless Ever
Scheduled for release on February 13, _Endless Ever_ , a 6-minute-long single, marks the first new material since they released their 10th studio album, _Songs of Homecoming_ , in 2024. Those are merely the bare technical facts. However, much more intriguing is the sonic signature of _Endless Ever_. It hearkens back, way back, to the very sombre and darkened roots of The Beauty of Gemina, when the so-called „Gemina Sound“ was coined and represented a dense, sinister ambience with repetitive lyrics that paved the way to an almost psychedelic state of mind. Although the album _Songs of Homecoming_ often paid tribute to this early sound, you couldn’t be sure that Michael Sele, the band’s creative mind, would go further in this direction. But as _Endless Ever_ impressively demonstrates, it’s truly a giant step back in time. «Never before has an album been as self-contained as ‹Songs of Homecoming›»The Beauty of Gemina’s Michael Sele about the new album, closing a circle, and how illness and the pandemic fuelled his confidence as an artist.Negative WhiteJanosch Troehler Therefore, _Endless Ever_ is full of sonic references to previous pieces. Within the subtle rhythm, you’ll hear a subdued synth line that echoes the more aggressive and highlighted one in _June 2nd_ (2012) or the one in _Veil of Rain_ (2024). Front and centre, there’s a sharp and clean guitar meandering in a mysterious, almost Middle Eastern melody. The guitar’s enourmous presences is probably only matched by _Colours of Mind_ (2008). > I’m waiting for you > Till the dawn is coming > Till the dawn is coming > While the night is still here > Endless ever > Endless ever Layer by layer, the composition gains drama and complexity as Michael Sele’s voice preaches into the darkness. Like multiplying tentacles, the song wraps around you, pulls you further down into a total sound, compiled from so many elements working together that decoding becomes almost an impossibility. ## Join Negative White We believe music is better when shared with others. Subscribe Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup. No spam, only music. Unsubscribe anytime. „ _Endless Ever_ is about waiting as a state of being—about a love or hope that is greater than time,“ Sele reveals. „I wanted to capture that feeling when seconds hurt because you miss someone, time loses its meaning, and in the end, all that remains is the endless clinging to hope.“ > Endless ever > Endless ever > I’m losing the time > And every second aching Every second And _Endless Ever_ succeeds excellently in this regard. The countless repetitions in the lyrics, the longingly roaming guitar, and the dark rumbling of rhythm stretch the objectively long runtime of _Endless Ever_ into a sense of nerve-wracking infinity. Seconds become minutes, become hours. It leaves you in an eerie tension between hope and desperation. The idea that a song embraces this very desperate idea of infinity might seem odd, even destructive. Who would want to endure this anyway? But no, _Endless Ever_ equips you with just the right amount of resilience that keeps you from drowning. With confidence, you can dive into this hypnotic epos and melt in the beauty of its pain and despair. #### The Beauty of Gemina on tour 26.02.2026 – Augsburg (DE) – Spectrum 27.02.2026 – Köln (DE) – Groove Bar 28.02.2026 – Frankfurt (DE) – Das Bett 06.03.2026 – Stuttgart (DE) – Im Wizemann Studio 07.03.2026 – Oberhausen (DE) – Kulttempel 20.03.2026 – Hannover (DE) – LUX 21.03.2026 – Hamburg (DE) – Bahnhof Pauli 22.03.2026 – Berlin (DE) – Badehaus 27.03.2026 – Leipzig (DE) – Moritzbastei 28.03.2026 – Tuttlingen (DE) – Stadthalle Tuttlingen
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February 12, 2026 at 2:42 PM
US rapper Earl Sweatshirt played at Rote Fabrik in Zurich—with Sideshow as an opening act. Here are our photos.
Gallery: Earl Sweatshirt
## Join Negative White We believe music is better when shared with others. Subscribe Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup. No spam, only music. Unsubscribe anytime. ### **Sideshow**
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February 8, 2026 at 8:14 PM
This week, we recommend the new songs by DEADLETTER, Vundabar, Yet No Yokai, Meimuna, and Echo Veins.
Edition #179
Today, we embark on a short, transformative journey from dangerous post-punk sounds to rugged psychedelic rock and velvety smooth compositions. ### This post is for subscribers only Become a member to get access to all content Subscribe now
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February 8, 2026 at 5:31 AM
A violent thunderstorm broke out on Tuesday evening in The Hall on the outskirts of Zurich. But it had been brewing rather slowly.
The Spark Came Late
<p>The Hall. A building designed from the ground up for events and live music. You would expect the sound to be outstanding. But when you ask people about it, they usually shake their heads. Too quiet, and the further back you are, the worse it gets.</p><p>I couldn’t really judge that before this evening, because after the opening ceremony in 2017, I miraculously never found myself there again.</p><p>This evening, a proper thrashing was on the cards: Humanity’s Last Breath. Shadow of Intent. Whitechapel. Lorna Shore. Four times deathcore in all its dystopian facets. A line-up that promised total escalation from the very first note.</p><p>But that’s not how it turned out—quite the opposite, in fact. Humanity’s Last Breath gave it their all; they were a hellish machine that briefly went full throttle, only to slam on the handbrake and veer into the next breakdown. A technical staccato. But the audience remained almost apathetic.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7210.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="" loading="lazy" width="2000" height="1335" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7210.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7210.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7210.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7210.jpg 2000w" /><figcaption><b><strong style="white-space:pre-wrap">Ben Duerr of Shadow of Intent. </strong></b><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></figcaption></figure><p>Maybe people just aren’t really in the mood at 6 p.m. And less than an hour later, the more melodic Shadow of Intent didn’t have it much easier. Hardly any mosh pits formed to their fast hammering. Or was it the sound? It seemed as if the energy wasn’t coming across properly. No spark flew. It was as if there was an invisible filter between the stage and the audience, sucking out all the emotion. Clean sound is great, but maybe sometimes it’s okay to let it rattle when conveying emotion.</p><p>I felt sorry for Ben Duerr and his fellow musicians as they struggled and looked at the unmoved crowd, half in despair, half in disbelief.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6682.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6682.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6682.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6682.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6682.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6710.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6710.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6710.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6710.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6710.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7255.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7255.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7255.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7255.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7255.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7248.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7248.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7248.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7248.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7248.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7243.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7243.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7243.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7243.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7243.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7212.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7212.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7212.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7212.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7212.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><b><strong style="white-space:pre-wrap">Shadow of Intent. </strong></b><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6675-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="" loading="lazy" width="2000" height="1335" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6675-1.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6675-1.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6675-1.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6675-1.jpg 2000w" /><figcaption><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></figcaption></figure><p>With Whitechapel, you could feel that the thankless slots were a thing of the past. The Swiss slowly thawed. And finally, you could feel your own body vibrating with the bass from time to time. But for my taste, it was a bit too much dull stomping in a flurry of flashbulbs.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6875.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6875.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6875.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6875.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6875.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6770.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6770.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6770.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6770.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6770.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7442.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7442.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7442.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7442.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7442.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7385.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7385.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7385.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7385.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7385.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6790.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6790.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6790.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6790.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6790.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7369.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7369.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7369.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7369.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7369.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><b><strong style="white-space:pre-wrap">Whitechapel. </strong></b><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure><p>Shortly before 9 p.m., the mood shifted into euphoria. Bonnie Tyler’s <em>Total Eclipse of the Heart</em> heralded the climax. With a bang, the banner in front of the stage fell, and there stood Lorna Shore on a multi-storey stage made of LED walls, immediately launching into <em>Oblivion</em>.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7478.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7478.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7478.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7478.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7478.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7482.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7482.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7482.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7482.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7482.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7505.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7505.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7505.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7505.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7505.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><b><strong style="white-space:pre-wrap">Will Ramos. </strong></b><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure><p>Since signing singer Will Ramos and releasing the single <em>To The Hellfire</em>, the New Jersey band, founded in 2010, has enjoyed an unprecedented triumphant march to the top of the metal world. Ramos’ guttural antics in the epically long hell hymns are always in the spotlight.</p><p>With hot pyrotechnics and gripping visuals on the screens, they demonstrated that even in oh-so-true metal, it’s all about good entertainment. Or in their case: grandiose entertainment.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7518.jpg" width="1335" height="2000" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7518.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7518.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7518.jpg 1335w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7521.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7521.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7521.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7521.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7521.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7540.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC7540.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC7540.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC7540.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC7540.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6890.jpg" width="1335" height="2000" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6890.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6890.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6890.jpg 1335w" /></div></div></div></figure><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6927.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6927.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6927.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6927.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6927.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6910.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6910.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6910.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6910.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6910.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6888.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6888.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6888.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6888.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6888.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6882.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6882.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6882.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6882.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6882.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure>
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February 6, 2026 at 7:15 AM
Sivert Høyem is one of Scandinavia's most distinctive voices. As the charismatic frontman of Madrugada, he made music history. We are giving away 2x2 spots on the guest list for his concert on February 26, in Zurich.
Win 2x2 Tickets for Sivert Høyem
<p>2026 is a year full of anniversaries for Sivert Høyem: two of his solo works are celebrating milestone birthdays: <em>Exiles</em> is turning twenty and <em>Lioness</em> is turning ten. Høyem himself is celebrating his 50th birthday. But beyond these numbers, the tour is a tribute to a life dedicated to music, and to an artist who can fill an entire room with a single note.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-video-card kg-width-regular"> <div class="kg-video-container"> <video src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/media/2026/02/sivert_teaser_giveitawhirl.mp4" poster="https://img.spacergif.org/v1/1920x1080/0a/spacer.png" width="1920" height="1080" preload="metadata" style="background:transparent url('https://www.negativewhite.com/content/media/2026/02/sivert_teaser_giveitawhirl_thumb.jpg') 50% 50% / cover no-repeat"></video> <div class="kg-video-overlay"> <button class="kg-video-large-play-icon"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewbox="0 0 24 24"> <path d="M23.14 10.608 2.253.164A1.559 1.559 0 0 0 0 1.557v20.887a1.558 1.558 0 0 0 2.253 1.392L23.14 13.393a1.557 1.557 0 0 0 0-2.785Z"></path> </svg> </button> </div> <div class="kg-video-player-container"> <div class="kg-video-player"> <button class="kg-video-play-icon"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewbox="0 0 24 24"> <path d="M23.14 10.608 2.253.164A1.559 1.559 0 0 0 0 1.557v20.887a1.558 1.558 0 0 0 2.253 1.392L23.14 13.393a1.557 1.557 0 0 0 0-2.785Z"></path> </svg> </button> <button class="kg-video-pause-icon kg-video-hide"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewbox="0 0 24 24"> <rect x="3" y="1" width="7" height="22" rx="1.5" ry="1.5"></rect> <rect x="14" y="1" width="7" height="22" rx="1.5" ry="1.5"></rect> </svg> </button> <span class="kg-video-current-time">0:00</span> <div class="kg-video-time"> /<span class="kg-video-duration">0:26</span> </div> <input type="range" class="kg-video-seek-slider" max="100" value="0" /> <button class="kg-video-playback-rate">1×</button> <button class="kg-video-unmute-icon"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewbox="0 0 24 24"> <path d="M15.189 2.021a9.728 9.728 0 0 0-7.924 4.85.249.249 0 0 1-.221.133H5.25a3 3 0 0 0-3 3v2a3 3 0 0 0 3 3h1.794a.249.249 0 0 1 .221.133 9.73 9.73 0 0 0 7.924 4.85h.06a1 1 0 0 0 1-1V3.02a1 1 0 0 0-1.06-.998Z"></path> </svg> </button> <button class="kg-video-mute-icon kg-video-hide"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewbox="0 0 24 24"> <path d="M16.177 4.3a.248.248 0 0 0 .073-.176v-1.1a1 1 0 0 0-1.061-1 9.728 9.728 0 0 0-7.924 4.85.249.249 0 0 1-.221.133H5.25a3 3 0 0 0-3 3v2a3 3 0 0 0 3 3h.114a.251.251 0 0 0 .177-.073ZM23.707 1.706A1 1 0 0 0 22.293.292l-22 22a1 1 0 0 0 0 1.414l.009.009a1 1 0 0 0 1.405-.009l6.63-6.631A.251.251 0 0 1 8.515 17a.245.245 0 0 1 .177.075 10.081 10.081 0 0 0 6.5 2.92 1 1 0 0 0 1.061-1V9.266a.247.247 0 0 1 .073-.176Z"></path> </svg> </button> <input type="range" class="kg-video-volume-slider" max="100" value="100" /> </div> </div> </div> </figure><p><a href="https://www.negativewhite.com/events/negative-w/" rel="noreferrer">On February 26</a>, together with his well-rehearsed band, Høyem takes the audience at X-Tra Zurich on a journey: from brand new songs to timeless classics such as <em>Prisoner of the Road</em>, <em>Moon Landing, Into the Sea</em> and Madrugadas' immortal <em>Majesty</em>. Every show is unique, full of surprises and intimate moments.</p><p>This is no ordinary celebration: it's a chance to experience one of Norway's most distinctive voices live: authentic, emotional and unforgettable.</p><h3 id="win-2x2-tickets-for-the-show">Win 2x2 Tickets for the Show</h3><div class="gh-paid-content-notice"><h3>This post is for subscribers only</h3><p>Become a member to get access to all content</p><a class="gh-paid-content-cta" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/win-2x2-tickets-for-sivert-hoyem/#/portal/signup">Subscribe now</a></div>
www.negativewhite.com
February 5, 2026 at 3:46 PM
In 2012, I had the opportunity to interview Paul McCartney on the phone. When I formatted my hard drive a few years later, I thought I lost the recording forever. Until today.
The Lost Paul McCartney Interview
<p>When Negative White turned ten years old in 2020, <a href="https://archiv.negativewhite.com/scheitern-fails-negative-white/">I wrote about our biggest failures</a>. The centre-piece was my interview with Paul McCartney 14 years ago—for more than one reason.</p><p>First, I was only 21, highly inexperienced in interviews and journalism, and had no idea how to properly record a phone call. My setup: Connect the phone to a speaker and place a recording device nearby. But back then, technology wasn’t as sophisticated, and it resulted in a terrible echo, which McCartney complained about. Only realising it midway through, I disconnected the speakers.</p><p>The second failure came a couple of years later when I formatted my computer’s hard drive. Confident I had saved all critical data, I went ahead only to realise the recordings were gone. Only a small snippet and <a href="https://archiv.negativewhite.com/paul-mccartney-im-gesprach/">the published article</a> seemingly remained. And as tragically as it was, it was frankly also a good story to tell.</p><p>But then, yesterday, a series of events began to unfold.</p><div class="gh-paid-content-notice"><h3>This post is for subscribers only</h3><p>Become a member to get access to all content</p><a class="gh-paid-content-cta" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/the-lost-paul-mccartney-interview/#/portal/signup">Subscribe now</a></div>
www.negativewhite.com
February 4, 2026 at 12:38 PM
The 69 Eyes proved in Zurich that they still got it even after more than 30 years.
Cowpunks and Glampires at Komplex 457
<p>The Helsinki Vampires’ presence is undeniable. Even after more than 30 years of performing, they still give their fans exactly what they want. Their show feels like a spell—like a kind of vampiric hypnosis cast over everyone watching and listening. With singer Jyrki 69’s slow, enticing hand movements and his operatic bass-baritone voice, it’s impossible not to get swept up in a trance. That spell is only strengthened by lead guitarist Bazie and rhythm guitarist Timo-Timo, whose playing is nothing short of incredible.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6789.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6789.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6789.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6789.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6789.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6270.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6270.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6270.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6270.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6270.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6271.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6271.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6271.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6271.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6271.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure><p>Their sound moves effortlessly between dark, melancholic moments like <em>The Chair </em>and high-energy glam-metal anthems such as <em>Lost Boys.</em> Bassist Archzie anchors the band with steady, powerful basslines, while Jussi 69 drives the show forward on drums, never letting the energy drop for a second.</p><p>The band seemed noticeably more energised than at their last concert in October 2024 at Dynamo and engaged with the crowd much more this time around. Long live Goth’n’Roll!</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6280.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6280.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6280.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6280.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6280.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6315.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6315.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6315.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6315.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6315.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6291.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6291.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6291.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6291.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6291.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6342.jpg" width="1335" height="2000" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6342.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6342.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6342.jpg 1335w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6348.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6348.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6348.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6348.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6348.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure><p>That same evening, I saw the Danish cowpunk band D-A-D (Disneyland After Dark) live for the first time. A little after 9 p.m., they stepped onto the stage and instantly made an impression. </p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card kg-card-hascaption"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6841-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt="" loading="lazy" width="2000" height="1335" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6841-1.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6841-1.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6841-1.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6841-1.jpg 2000w" /><figcaption><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jacob Binzer on guitar looked like a magician in his red shirt, vest, and top hat; Laust Sonne appeared behind the drums in a glam-rock overall; singer Jesper Binzer embodied a modern cowboy in a denim jacket; and most striking of all was bassist Stig Pedersen, who looked like a ’70s star man in a shiny silver top, short shorts, and massive boots. I was genuinely surprised when Jesper spoke almost fluent German between songs, which added to the band’s easy charm and connection with the crowd.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6810.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6810.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6810.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6810.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6810.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6849.jpg" width="1335" height="2000" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6849.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6849.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6849.jpg 1335w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6895.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6895.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6895.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6895.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6895.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6914.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6914.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6914.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6914.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6914.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6929.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6929.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6929.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6929.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6929.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div></figure><p>Their sound was strong and instantly transported me straight back to the ’80s - not that I ever experienced the ’80s. The set featured plenty of instrumental sections, giving every musician their moment to shine. Definitely worth mentioning were the many different two-string basses Stig used throughout the show. They were unlike anything I’ve ever seen and never failed to make me smile, especially when he was handed an even more absurd-looking one than before. Among them were a reversed bass, a rocket bass, an iron cross bass, a car bass, and even an “olive on a pick” bass.</p><p>One of the most beautiful moments of the night came when the singer stepped into the crowd and sang directly to and with the fans. They wrapped up the encore with the perfectly fitting <em>It’s After Dark,</em> rounding off a fantastic show.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-gallery-card kg-width-wide kg-card-hascaption"><div class="kg-gallery-container"><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6938.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6938.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6938.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6938.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6938.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6955.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6955.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6955.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6955.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6955.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6974.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_DSC6974.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_DSC6974.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_DSC6974.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_DSC6974.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6435.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6435.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6435.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6435.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6435.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6489.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6489.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6489.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6489.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6489.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6498.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6498.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6498.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6498.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6498.jpg 2000w" /></div></div><div class="kg-gallery-row"><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6524.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6524.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6524.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6524.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6524.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6578.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6578.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6578.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6578.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6578.jpg 2000w" /></div><div class="kg-gallery-image"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6640.jpg" width="2000" height="1335" loading="lazy" alt="" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2026/02/_NIK6640.jpg 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2026/02/_NIK6640.jpg 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2026/02/_NIK6640.jpg 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2026/02/_NIK6640.jpg 2000w" /></div></div></div><figcaption><p dir="ltr"><span style="white-space:pre-wrap">Credits: Evelyn Kutschera</span></p></figcaption></figure>
www.negativewhite.com
February 2, 2026 at 6:56 AM
The Sound Business #8 • Halving Referendum, WEKO fines, and an AI-generated song hits the charts.
Where is the Popstars' Resistance?
<p><em>„What a year, huh?“ – „Captain, it’s January.“</em></p><p>Anyone who thought that things could only get better after 2025 had a rude awakening on 1 January and beyond. An incomprehensible tragedy in Crans-Montana, murders of protesting civilians from the USA to Iran. A world that feels like it is teetering on the brink of disaster. And basically, we can consider ourselves incredibly lucky for all the problems that aren’t a matter of life and death.</p><p>Nevertheless, dark clouds are gathering over the Swiss music industry. Specifically, the Halving Referendum, which would have fatal consequences far beyond the industry if accepted. I already warned about this in 2024:</p><figure class="kg-card kg-bookmark-card"><a class="kg-bookmark-container" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/far-right-referendum-threatens-swiss-music-halbierungsinitiative/"><div class="kg-bookmark-content"><div class="kg-bookmark-title">Far-Right Referendum Threatens Swiss Music Scene</div><div class="kg-bookmark-description">A referendum seeks to cut the public broadcasting fee in half. It not only threatens independent journalism but also the opportunities for Swiss musicians.</div><div class="kg-bookmark-metadata"><img class="kg-bookmark-icon" src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/icon/Negative-White-2014---Logo-122.png" alt="" /><span class="kg-bookmark-author">Negative White</span><span class="kg-bookmark-publisher">Janosch Troehler</span></div></div><div class="kg-bookmark-thumbnail"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/thumbnail/5980359-1.jpg" alt="" /></div></a></figure><p>Last December, I had dinner with some journalist friends. Naturally, the initiative was a topic of conversation, and most were optimistic. I was rather pessimistic. And sure enough, the <a href="https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/halbierungsinitiative-zuspruch-sinkt-562645540007" rel="noreferrer">first Tamedia/Leewas poll</a> shows that support stands at 50% (margin of error: 1.4 percentage points). Even though there is still time, it could be a close call. It seems illusory that there will be a resounding no (71.6%) as there was with the No Billag initiative in 2018.</p><p>It was not until 26 January that the <a href="https://www.suisseculture.ch/aktuellesundinfo/200-chf-sind-nicht-genug/">Swiss cultural scene officially launched its resistance</a>, with the music industry specifically using the slogan „<a href="https://www.wodiemusikspielt.ch/">Wo die Musik spielt</a>“. Various organisations, including SUISA, SONART, and IFPI Switzerland, are joining forces to mobilise voters against the initiative. That’s good, and better late than never.</p><p>But so far, the biggest beneficiaries of the SRG platforms in the pop music scene have remained silent. Where are the figureheads of the local music scene in this fight? Where are Lo &amp; Leduc, Stefanie Heinzmann, Nemo, Hecht and Dodo, who owe much of their careers to the SRG? I very much hope the music will start playing there as well—especially given the fact that even "national heroes" such as skier Marco Odermatt, who certainly has many fans in the conservative camp, <a href="https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/marco-odermatt-gegen-srg-halbierungsinitiative-sportler-vereint-264206507846" rel="noreferrer">are opposing the initiative</a>.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/2025/12/Trennbalken_Orange-02-1.png" class="kg-image" alt="" loading="lazy" width="2000" height="84" srcset="https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w600/2025/12/Trennbalken_Orange-02-1.png 600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1000/2025/12/Trennbalken_Orange-02-1.png 1000w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w1600/2025/12/Trennbalken_Orange-02-1.png 1600w, https://www.negativewhite.com/content/images/size/w2400/2025/12/Trennbalken_Orange-02-1.png 2400w" /></figure><h2 id="headlines"><strong>Headlines</strong></h2><h3 id="srf-refuses-to-play-ai-generated-papaoutai-%E2%80%93-afro-soul-despite-chart-position">SRF refuses to play AI-generated <em>Papaoutai – Afro Soul</em> despite chart position</h3><p><a href="https://www.tagesanzeiger.ch/ki-song-erobert-schweizer-charts-srf-spielt-papaoutai-nicht-591279198466">As Tages-Anzeiger reported</a>, Swiss broadcaster SRF refuses to play the AI-generated track <em>Papaoutai – Afro Soul</em> in its rotation as it would violate internal guidelines. At the time of writing, the song <a href="https://hitparade.ch/charts/singles">ranks 8th in Switzerland’s charts</a> and has achieved similar rankings internationally. GfK Entertainment, responsible for the Swiss charts, stated that an AI regulation will be introduced in the future. Currently, the charts simply reflect streams and sales without any sort of curation or restrictions.<br />SRF’s decision is certainly the right call; not only for ethical but also political reasons. With the critical Halving Referendum on the doorstep, they need to count on the creative industry to back them up. Meanwhile, private radio stations are shamelessly experimenting with AI-generated songs, <a href="https://www.negativewhite.com/swiss-radio-stations-experiment-with-ai-generated-music/">as we reported last year</a>.</p><h3 id="competition-commission-of-switzerland-weko-fines-ticketcorner-and-hallenstadion">Competition Commission of Switzerland (WEKO) fines Ticketcorner and Hallenstadion</h3><p>WEKO announced fines for Ticketcorner AG (CHF 50,000) and Hallenstadion (CHF 65’000) after the federal court uncovered in 2020 that a contract between the two companies violated cartel law.<br />At the end of 2008, Hallenstadion and Ticketcorner AG agreed that the Hallenstadion would only be rented to event organisers if at least 50% of tickets were sold through Ticketcorner. This hindered competition from other ticketing providers, who found it more difficult to sell tickets for events at the Hallenstadion, <a href="https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/G8i5gMqMRa4MTZzM9jkOF">writes WEKO in its statement</a>. Since WEKO found that Hallenstadion and Ticketcorner had dominant market positions between 2009 and 2011, both companies were fined. The decision may be appealed to the Federal Administrative Court.</p><h3 id="one-indie-label-continues-another-one-says-goodbye">One indie label continues, another one says goodbye</h3><p><a href="https://www.negativewhite.com/watered-down-ai-regulation/">After announcing a reflective break last September</a>, queer-feminist label Forcefield Records continues in 2026 with newfound dedication. The collective is now looking for talent (see job offers below).<br />Meanwhile, Ikarus Records announced on December 31, 2025, that they’re closing up shop. „With pride, we look back on more than 20 years of label history and an impressive catalogue that helped shape the Swiss independent music scene, especially in the 2000s but also throughout the 2010s. […] Major success never materialised—nor was it ever explicitly sought. A larger audience would have been nice, but it never opened to us. Ikrec were ‚indie as fuck‘—right until the very end,“ <a href="https://ikarusrecords.ch/">they state on their website</a>. The label featured releases by artists such as Lord Kesseli and the Drums, Naked in English Class, or Elie Zoé.</p><div class="gh-paid-content-notice"><h3>This post is for subscribers only</h3><p>Become a member to get access to all content</p><a class="gh-paid-content-cta" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/sound-business-where-is-the-popstars-resistance/#/portal/signup">Subscribe now</a></div>
www.negativewhite.com
January 29, 2026 at 8:00 AM
In a four-part series, American educator, author, and former staff songwriter Andrea Stolpe shares routines, examples, and advice to maintain your creativity as a songwriter.
Maintaining Creativity as a Songwriter — Part 4: Rhythm & Chords
<p>One of the most powerful tools of songwriting we all have at our disposal lies within chords and rhythm. Lyric and melody gain dimension through this essential pillar of a song, working in tandem with chords and groove to complete a song’s personality or character. Lyric, and often melody, will never “override” the character inherent in the chords and rhythm. Rather, the personality of a lyric and melody is completed by them.</p><p>Imagine a Latin rhythm played at a particular tempo. Those same chords, played in a country waltz style, will carry a very different rhythm, and the character we imagine singing will shift dramatically. It’s not the chord names that cause the change in character, but the rhythm. In some cases, we might call this the “groove” of the song. Songs that groove capture the essential character of the genre, potently and usually quite succinctly. Strong instrumentalists practice groove regularly. It’s part of the job description if you’re going to get hired.</p><div class="gh-paid-content-notice"><h3>This post is for subscribers only</h3><p>Become a member to get access to all content</p><a class="gh-paid-content-cta" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/maintaining-creativity-as-a-songwriter-part-4-rhythm-chords/#/portal/signup">Subscribe now</a></div>
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January 28, 2026 at 8:01 AM
With his raw voice, genuine passion and impressive range, Shawn James will be playing at the Plaza Zurich on Thursday, 5 February 2026. We are giving away 2x2 tickets for the show.
Win 2x2 Tickets for Shawn James
<p>Chicago-based musician Shawn James has become a real insider tip in recent years. His songs tell of strength and fragility, of faith and doubt, and the constant struggle with oneself. Anyone who experiences Shawn James live immediately senses that this is not a slick performer, but an artist who lives his music—intensely, honestly and with a soul that resonates in every note.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-embed-card"><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xXcKSLijghs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen title="Shawn James - &quot;Through the Valley&quot; - Official Music Video"></iframe></figure><p>Since his debut in 2012, Shawn James has tirelessly honed his sound and built up a loyal fan base without the backing of any major labels. His independence is his trademark: every album, every performance is a commitment to artistic freedom and authenticity.</p><p>If you want to listen to an artist who is authentic and original, this is the place to be. So, on the evening of February 5, you can expect emotional stories full of darkness and light at Plaza Club in Zurich, precisely the contrasts that define Shawn James’ music.</p><div class="gh-paid-content-notice"><h3>This post is for subscribers only</h3><p>Become a member to get access to all content</p><a class="gh-paid-content-cta" href="https://www.negativewhite.com/win-2x2-tickets-for-shawn-james/#/portal/signup">Subscribe now</a></div>
www.negativewhite.com
January 27, 2026 at 8:00 AM
The Roundup °11
In this week's roundup: AI-music on the radio and our top stories in 2025.
www.negativewhite.com
December 19, 2025 at 4:01 PM