30 Facts About Can (German Band)

Who is Can?

Can, a German experimental rock band, formed in 1968 in Cologne. Known for their unique sound, they blended rock, jazz, and electronic music. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this influential band.

1. Can's founding members included Holger Czukay, Irmin Schmidt, Michael Karoli, and Jaki Liebezeit. Each brought a unique musical background to the group.

2. The band’s name, Can, stands for "Communism, Anarchism, Nihilism." This reflected their avant-garde approach to music and society.

3. Can's music often featured improvisation. They would record long jam sessions and later edit them into coherent tracks.

4. Their debut album, "Monster Movie," was released in 1969. It showcased their early psychedelic rock influences.

5. Can's second album, "Soundtracks," included music they composed for various films. This album marked a transition to a more experimental sound.

Can's Unique Sound

Can's music is often described as "Krautrock," a genre that emerged in Germany in the late 1960s. Their sound was innovative and ahead of its time.

6. Jaki Liebezeit, the drummer, was known for his "motorik" beat. This steady, repetitive rhythm became a hallmark of Can's music.

7. Holger Czukay, the bassist, also played a significant role in the band's sound. He used tape loops and other electronic effects to create unique textures.

8. Irmin Schmidt, the keyboardist, had a background in classical music. His training added a sophisticated layer to Can's compositions.

9. Michael Karoli, the guitarist, was influenced by both rock and classical music. His versatile playing style helped shape Can's sound.

10. Can's music often featured unconventional song structures. They preferred to let the music evolve organically rather than following traditional verse-chorus patterns.

Albums and Notable Tracks

Can released several albums that have since become classics. Each album showcased their evolving sound and experimentation.

11. "Tago Mago," released in 1971, is considered one of their masterpieces. It featured the epic track "Halleluhwah," which is over 18 minutes long.

12. "Ege Bamyasi," released in 1972, included the hit single "Spoon." This song became popular after being used as the theme for a German TV show.

13. "Future Days," released in 1973, marked a shift towards a more ambient sound. The title track is a beautiful example of their more mellow, atmospheric style.

14. "Soon Over Babaluma," released in 1974, was the first album after vocalist Damo Suzuki left the band. The band continued to innovate with tracks like "Dizzy Dizzy."

15. "Landed," released in 1975, saw the band experimenting with more conventional rock sounds. The track "Hunters and Collectors" is a standout.

Influence and Legacy

Can's influence extends far beyond their active years. Many modern artists cite them as a major inspiration.

16. David Bowie was a fan of Can and their innovative approach to music. He even named their album "Tago Mago" as one of his favorites.

17. Radiohead has often mentioned Can as an influence. Their experimental approach to music echoes Can's pioneering spirit.

18. The band Sonic Youth covered Can's song "I’m So Green" on their album "The Whitey Album."

19. Can's music has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, including Kanye West and A Tribe Called Quest.

20. The band's innovative use of tape loops and electronic effects paved the way for future electronic music genres.

Live Performances and Tours

Can was known for their energetic and unpredictable live performances. They often improvised on stage, making each concert a unique experience.

21. Can rarely played the same setlist twice. Their live shows were a mix of structured songs and spontaneous jams.

22. The band toured extensively throughout Europe in the 1970s. They built a loyal fanbase with their dynamic performances.

23. Can's live album, "Live 1971-77," captures the raw energy of their concerts. It includes recordings from various shows during their peak years.

24. Damo Suzuki, the band's second vocalist, was known for his charismatic stage presence. His improvised lyrics added an element of unpredictability to their shows.

25. Can's concerts often featured elaborate light shows and visual effects. This added to the immersive experience for the audience.

Post-Can Projects

After Can disbanded in 1979, the members pursued various solo projects and collaborations. Their influence continued to be felt in the music world.

26. Holger Czukay released several solo albums that continued his exploration of electronic music. His album "Movies" is considered a classic.

27. Irmin Schmidt composed music for films and television. He also released solo albums that showcased his classical training.

28. Jaki Liebezeit collaborated with numerous artists, including Brian Eno and Depeche Mode. His drumming style remained influential.

29. Michael Karoli continued to make music until his death in 2001. He worked on various projects that reflected his diverse musical interests.

30. In 1999, Can reunited for a one-off concert in Cologne. This performance was a celebration of their enduring legacy and influence.

The Legacy of Can

Can's influence on music is undeniable. Their experimental approach, blending rock, jazz, and electronic elements, paved the way for countless genres. Bands like Radiohead and Sonic Youth have cited them as inspirations. Their improvisational style and innovative use of technology set them apart. Albums like "Tago Mago" and "Ege Bamyasi" remain classics, showcasing their unique sound. Despite lineup changes, their core members—Holger Czukay, Irmin Schmidt, Jaki Liebezeit, and Michael Karoli—left an indelible mark. Their music continues to be discovered by new generations, proving its timeless appeal. Can's legacy is a testament to the power of creativity and experimentation in music. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their work, diving into Can's discography offers a rich, rewarding experience. Their pioneering spirit ensures they'll be remembered as one of the most innovative bands in music history.