The Kölschrock band Kasalla has announced the cancellation of their concert scheduled for Saturday evening, May 3, 2025, in Wuppertal, following the tragic death of their long-time technician, Tom. The band shared the heartbreaking news via their Facebook page, stating, "We are not able to play a concert tonight." This announcement came after a devastating motorcycle accident that claimed Tom's life.
According to reports from the Cologne police, the accident occurred around 0:40 AM on the A3 highway near Cologne. Tom, aged 55, was riding his motorcycle home after a concert in Düren when he collided with a car that had broken down on the road. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts at the scene, he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
In their emotional tribute posted on Instagram, Kasalla expressed their deep sorrow, stating, "We are torn. We are broken. We are destroyed." The band described Tom as a family member, highlighting his unwavering support and reliability over the years. They reminisced about how he was always there for them, saying, "When we called you at three in the morning, you were there, no matter what." The band emphasized that Tom would remain an inseparable part of their family.
The news of Tom's passing has sent shockwaves through the Cologne music scene, with many artists and friends expressing their condolences on social media. The well-known local band Bläck Fööss commented, "Unbelievable! Our deepest condolences and sympathy!" Other artists, including Cat Ballou, Querbeat, and comedian Carolin Kebekus, also shared their grief, reflecting on the loss of someone who played a crucial role behind the scenes.
Tom was not just a technician; he was a beloved figure in the community, known for his helpfulness and kindness. As the band stated, "The gap you leave cannot be measured in kilometers." His absence will be felt not only by Kasalla but also by the many who knew him in the vibrant Cologne music and carnival scene.
The band had been gearing up for their performance in Wuppertal as part of their "Nit esu laut" tour, which aimed to bring joy and celebration to their fans. However, in light of this tragedy, the group has been left in disbelief and mourning. They communicated their decision to cancel the concert with heavy hearts, stating, "We are sitting here in disbelief over the loss of our Kasalla family member Tom together. And we have been honest: We cannot play a concert tonight." They also expressed their hope for understanding from their fans during this difficult time.
As investigations into the accident continue, the music community mourns the loss of Tom, a man who was dedicated to his craft and to the people he worked with. The outpouring of grief from fellow musicians and fans alike underscores the significant impact he had on those around him.
In their farewell message, Kasalla quoted a line from their song "Mer sinn uns widder" (We will see each other again), which speaks to the hope of reuniting with loved ones after death. They wrote, "Mer sin uns widder. Op dä andre Sick. Bitte, Tom, waad op uns" (We will see each other again, on the other side, please, Tom, wait for us). This poignant sentiment encapsulates the love and respect the band and the community have for Tom.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Tom's death serve as a reminder of how quickly life can change. What began as a routine journey home turned into a nightmare, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. The band, along with the entire Cologne music scene, will undoubtedly carry Tom's memory forward, cherishing the moments they shared with him.
As fans await further announcements regarding the future of Kasalla's tour, the focus remains on honoring Tom's legacy and supporting his family during this challenging time. The band has assured their fans that they will keep them informed about any rescheduled performances or arrangements made in light of this loss.
In the face of such sorrow, the spirit of community shines through, as friends, family, and fans come together to celebrate the life of a man who was genuinely one of the good ones. The band Kasalla, while devastated, stands united in their grief and commitment to remembering their beloved technician, Tom.
