Udo Dirkschneider: A Voice That Defies Age

The Strengthening of a Legendary Voice

In a recent interview with Shawn Ratches from Laughingmonkeymusic, Udo Dirkschneider, the esteemed frontman of U.D.O. and DIRKSCHNEIDER, made an intriguing revelation about his vocal prowess. At 73 years old, Dirkschneider asserted that his voice has only grown stronger with time. He shared his experience while discussing the upcoming European tour, stating, “When we had our new booking agency… I said, ‘Yeah, five, six in a row, no problem.’” The astonishment from the agency was palpable, yet Udo remained confident, emphasizing that such a schedule would not only be feasible but also economical.

The Benefits of Continuous Performance

Dirkschneider elaborated on his preference for consecutive shows, noting, “For me, it’s better to have more shows in a row instead of having two, a day off, three, a day off.” He likened his voice to a muscle that benefits from regular exercise, stating, “You’re getting really into that,” suggesting that the more he performs, the better he feels vocally. This approach has not only energized him but has also created a positive atmosphere within his band.

Evolving as an Artist

During a May 2023 press conference for U.D.O.’s latest album, “Touchdown,” Dirkschneider discussed the evolution of his singing voice. He emphasized the importance of being open-minded about music, stating, “For me, the most important thing is that you are open-minded with music.” This adaptability has allowed him to explore new vocal ranges and styles, further enhancing his capabilities. He mentioned his experience with the cover album “My Way,” which helped him discover the breadth of his vocal range. “It’s like an old wine; the taste is getting much better,” he remarked, reflecting his belief in continuous growth as an artist.

Maintaining Vocal Health

In an earlier interview from October 2021, Udo credited his vocal longevity to a mix of luck and healthy choices. “I go every year to check everything, and the doctor always says, ‘Everything’s perfect. No problems,’” he shared. Unlike many contemporaries who face vocal challenges, Udo has never had to cancel a concert due to voice issues. His only significant lifestyle change was quitting smoking 17 years ago.

The Miracle of His Voice

Udo described his vocal maintenance routine as simple, stating, “I never warm up when I go onstage. I never warm up in the studio. It’s a miracle.” His long-time collaborator, Stefan Kaufmann, remarked on the continued excellence of Udo’s voice, noting that it remains at the same level as it was during the recording of ACCEPT’s album “Breaker.” This affirmation from a fellow musician only underscores the uniqueness of Udo’s vocal abilities.

DIRKSCHNEIDER: A Tribute to ACCEPT

While Udo originally announced that his DIRKSCHNEIDER tour would be his last performance of ACCEPT songs, he has continued to honor the legacy of his past by performing select shows under the DIRKSCHNEIDER banner. This commitment to his roots showcases his enduring passion for music and connection to his fans.

Conclusion

Udo Dirkschneider stands as a testament to the idea that age is just a number, especially when it comes to artistry and vocal strength. His journey reflects not only a commitment to music but also a dedication to personal growth and health. As he continues to defy expectations with his powerful voice, fans can look forward to more incredible performances in the years to come.

FAQs

How has Udo Dirkschneider maintained his vocal health over the years?

Udo Dirkschneider attributes his vocal health to regular check-ups with his doctor and a significant lifestyle change of quitting smoking 17 years ago. He also emphasizes the importance of continuous performance for his voice.

What is the DIRKSCHNEIDER project?

DIRKSCHNEIDER is a musical project led by Udo Dirkschneider that focuses exclusively on performing songs from his time with the band ACCEPT.

What are Udo’s views on evolving as a musician?

Udo believes in being open-minded in music, stating that it is essential to adapt and explore new styles and ranges, which has contributed to the growth of his vocal abilities over the years.

How does Udo feel about performing consecutive shows?

Udo prefers performing multiple shows in a row, stating that it helps him maintain and strengthen his voice, likening it to a muscle that benefits from regular exercise.