"Attempt was made to silence the informant, but I refused to remain quiet."

German band vocalist Klaus Meine unveils insights into the formation of their most iconic tune.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 18 . 11:44 PM

2 min read

"attempt was made to remove the whistle, but I objected, refusing verbally"

"Attempt was made to silence the informant, but I refused to remain quiet."

The Scorpions, a renowned German rock band, made history in 1988 when they became the first heavy metal band to perform in the Soviet Union. Klaus Meine, the band's lead vocalist, recounted being watched by the KGB during their initial visit to Leningrad. Despite this, the band's presence was not deterred, and they went on to play ten concerts at the Lenin Sport & Concert Complex between April 17 and 26, 1988.

The audience in the Soviet Union, particularly in Leningrad, became enthusiastic during these concerts. Klaus Meine understood that many young Russians felt the Cold War was ending after these performances. The Scorpions' guitarist, Rudolf Schenker, said they wanted to show Russians that they were coming with love, not weapons.

This concert series was significant in breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of change. The Scorpions' concert at the Moscow Peace Festival the following year further solidified this impact. The KGB's presence did not hinder the band during this concert, as they continued to captivate their audience.

One of the band's most iconic songs, 'Wind of Change', was attributed to Klaus Meine. He wrote it in September 1989, inspired by the feeling of hope after the end of the Cold War. The song was released in 1991 and has since become synonymous with the Scorpions.

Rumours suggesting that 'Wind of Change' was composed by the CIA are considered far-fetched. However, Rudolf Schenker did suggest recording a Russian version of the song due to its popularity in pirate radio in Russia. The whistle sound in 'Wind of Change', which was initially met with criticism from the American record label, remains in the final version.

The sociopolitical impact of 'Wind of Change' was greater than the Scorpions had anticipated. Klaus Meine even changed the lyrics of the song live to support Ukraine during a performance. This new compilation, 'From the first sting', released on September 26, serves as a testament to the band's enduring legacy.

For registered users like Nacho Serrano, the Scorpions' concert series in the Soviet Union and the release of 'Wind of Change' remain significant moments in music history. The Scorpions, with their anthem 'Wind of Change', continue to symbolise a time of hope and change, not just in music, but also in the world.