Le musicien Bibiza: "Je pense que mes fans ne connaissent même pas Falco"

A 27-year-old Austrian musician named Bibiza has stated during an interview with Der Standard that he believes his fans may not even know who Falco is. The statement comes ahead of the release of his new album titled Rocknrollstar, which is set to hit stores on July 31. Bibiza, whose real name is Franz, has carved out a unique niche in Austria’s music scene with his blend of provocative lyrics, references to Vienna's stereotypes, and a style that mixes charm with a touch of rebellion. The new album marks a shift in direction for Bibiza, who has previously been associated with the Viennese pop scene known for its playful and often exaggerated portrayals of city life. While his earlier work leaned heavily on clichés, such as references to drugs, nightlife, and the city's iconic landmarks, his latest project aims to break away from these tropes. According to reports, Rocknrollstar features a more guitar-driven sound and a harder edge than his previous albums, reflecting a desire to redefine his image and artistic identity. In the interview, Bibiza described his approach to being a “Rock’n’Roll Star” as less about adhering strictly to genre conventions and more about attitude and performance. He emphasized the importance of stage presence and how shows should feel spontaneous and authentic. When asked whether he uses his lyrics to poke fun at outdated stereotypes, Bibiza acknowledged that some lines are intentionally exaggerated while others reflect moments from his personal experiences. However, he clarified that they do not represent him personally. Bibiza also addressed the role of his alter ego, Bibiza, noting that it is not a character but rather a condensed version of himself. He explained that while parts of his public persona are derived from his true self, much of what audiences see is a stylized interpretation. This duality has become a hallmark of his career, allowing him to navigate the fine line between irony and sincerity. He touched upon the challenges of maintaining privacy in his profession, admitting that there is little separation between his private life and his public image. His songwriting often blurs the boundaries between reality and fiction, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. In particular, he discussed his collaboration with Ikkimel, a fellow artist known for her bold and controversial stance. Bibiza praised their partnership, calling Ikkimel a “legend” and expressing mutual respect for their creative endeavors. When questioned about the broader implications of his music, especially in relation to gender dynamics within the industry, Bibiza expressed a nuanced view. He acknowledged the intent behind songs such as Tanzen, which addresses issues faced by men in nightlife settings, but cautioned against overgeneralization. He admitted that while he sees value in using his platform to speak out, he does not believe it is necessary to take on a messianic role. Instead, he prefers to focus on expressing himself through his art. The production of Rocknrollstar reportedly came about under unusual circumstances, according to the interview. Details remain sparse, but it appears that the album represents a deliberate departure from past projects, signaling a new phase in Bibiza’s career. As the release date approaches, anticipation grows among fans eager to see how this evolution plays out.