Moses Pelham, the German rap pioneer, is making headlines as he celebrates the release of his final solo album, titled Letzte Worte. This ninth installment marks the culmination of a three-decade-long musical career defined by innovation and controversy.
Set to release on January 24, 2024, Letzte Worte features the distinctive vocals of Xavier Naidoo, returning to the music scene after more than six years of silence. Pelham's connection with Naidoo runs deep, as he considers him “like a brother” (Reported by FAZ), reflecting the closeness forged through their collaborations over the years.
Pelham, who first rose to prominence with the group Rödelheim Hartreim Projekt, has not only been instrumental in shaping the German hip-hop scene but also played a significant role in Naidoo's ascent to stardom. Naidoo's debut album, Nicht von dieser Welt, released in 1998, sold over 1.5 million copies, establishing him as one of Germany's most notable artists.
Despite their artistic bond, Naidoo's recent controversies have cast shadows over his return. Known for his outspoken views, which have included conspiracy theories and anti-Semitic remarks, Naidoo faced public backlash and legal challenges. He was charged with inciting hatred due to past comments, leading to questions about his suitability as Pelham's collaborator. Addressing these concerns, Pelham acknowledges Naidoo’s controversial past but emphasizes his appreciation for their musical synergy, stating, “When I make my last album, I want him to be involved: I don't care what you've done, brother, just sit down.”
The tracklist of Letzte Worte comprises twelve songs, many showcasing Pelham's signature style—blending deep emotion with playful tracks, including notable pieces like “Der Anfang vom Ende” and “Alles verschwimmt.” Pelham's decision to include Naidoo on three of the songs signifies not only their friendship but also the importance of their shared artistic history.
Pelham's farewell concert tour, which spanned 15 dates across seven cities, served as both celebration and reflection. He described the experiences as “fantastic,” expressing gratitude for the support he received from fans throughout his career. “This was balm for my battered soul,” he noted, encapsulating the emotional weight of his final performances.
Among the album's collaborators are not only Naidoo but also notable names like the band Böhse Onkelz, which has faced its own share of controversies related to right-wing affiliations. When Pelham was questioned about these associations, he indicated uncertainty about the accusations but clarified his decision to remain focused on the artistic contributions rather than the artists' pasts, particularly when it came to Naidoo.
Xavier Naidoo's return to the public eye has not gone unnoticed. He had previously confessed to having been swept away by conspiracy theories and expressed remorse for “things I’ve said and done” which he now regrets. His recent video apology underscored his desire to reconnect with fans and move beyond earlier transgressions. Moving forward with Pelham’s final project, he has the chance to rehabilitate his image through art.
Pelhams' career spans numerous impactful moments—from breaking hip-hop barriers to creating platforms for rising talent, including Cassandra Steen and Sabrina Setlur. Yet, it hasn't been without its challenges. After gaining mainstream success, he fell prey to various scandals, including the infamous altercation with Stefan Raab, which saw physical violence disrupt his personal and professional image.
Despite these setbacks, Pelham emerged resilient, culminating his career with Letzte Worte. His return to the industry is marked both by nostalgia and anticipation—how will fans respond to his closing statement?
While Pelham reflects on his legacy and what’s next, he expressed uncertainty about his future activities outside of music. “Honestly, I don’t know the answer to what will come next,” he shared. With his career concluding, he’s left open possibilities—traveling, learning to fly, or even exploring new hobbies. For Pelham, the next chapter remains unwritten, but his contributions to German music endure.