That's right. Who would you rather
get stuck in the elevator with: Roger Federer or Cristiano Ronaldo?
Cristiano Ronaldo. But I can't say why. I'm more interested in talking about football than - I don't even know if Federer plays tennis or golf. Which is it? Tennis or golf?
Tennis!
Ah yes. But he also plays golf, doesn't he? But no, rather Cristiano Ronaldo.
Meeting up for a beer with Angela Merkel or Donald Trump?
Nah (laughs). Mrs. Merkel.
You're Hanseatic, you speak and rap incredibly fast. We Swiss are a bit more relaxed. Do you rap slower today?
Nope (laughs). Then the music would have to be slower too. That would be stupid.
You're at various festivals in the summer. Do you like our country?
Yes of course, I like Switzerland, otherwise I wouldn't come here.
Do you know Rapperswil? You've been to a festival there before.
Ah, Rapperswil, yes, I've been there before. As a rapper, you don't forget that name (grins broadly). I don't know whether I was there with the Beginners or Jan Delay. But I've definitely been there before.
You have a broad musical background. Are there genres that you would never play?
Classical music. And pop. And jazz. And Nazi rock (laughs). Those are the things I don't do - can't do.
Your lyrics often have a political background. You also name the grievances. Do you think other artists should also make more statements?
Nope, I don't think so. Art is art. It's free and anarchic. Everyone should do what they feel like doing and how they want to express themselves.
Interesting thought ...
I think it's terrible when you want to dictate to people that they have to convey certain content. Art must always be free. On the other hand, I'm also thrilled and really happy when others like Rihanna say political things, demonstrate against Trump and tweet.
"Nope, I don't think artists have to make political statements. Art is art. It's free and anarchic."
Are you active on social media yourself?
Yes.
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: are these platforms a curse or a blessing for you artists?
I don't always think it's great, but it also has huge advantages. And it's a bit part of our time, which is why I play the game. I'm a fan myself and follow certain things via music, films or graffiti on trains. Then I think, I could do that too. But I would never post pictures of my children. Or show me brushing my teeth, I find all that shit embarrassing.
Does it feel different when you perform solo or with the Beginners, for example?
Nah, it's the same. In both cases, I have a microphone in my hand and speak to the people. If I was playing drums or keyboards in a band, it would be different. But as a singer it's the same. It's easier with the Beginners than when I'm alone on tour and have to do everything on my own.
Can you be more relaxed today?
Yes, definitely.
But the adrenaline remains high?
Yes, it stays the same.
Isn't it difficult when you come off stage, you're excited and then you're sitting alone in a room in absolute silence?
The best thing is to go home as quickly as possible and buy normal toilet paper and mop the kitchen floor. Then everything is clear again and brought back to a level.
What's the nicest compliment you've ever heard after a concert?
They're all nice, there's no gradation.
JAN DELAY - BLUES'N'JAZZ
29.6.17 - 1.7.17, Rapperswil-Jona
TICKETS
