Michael von Zalejski "Merci Udo – A Tribute to Udo Jürgens" by Kulturbesen in Scene 64

Anyone who has experienced Udo Jürgens in concert knows that his songs, performed live and solely at the piano, create a very special atmosphere. This intense ambiance is also brought to the stage by Michael von Zalejski with his tribute. Since 2013, the powerful-voiced artist from Hanover has been presenting gems from Udo Jürgens' work—alone, just at the piano, and without playback or recordings. He comes remarkably close to his musical idol. In particular, the songs "that stand in the shadows" (Udo Jürgens) create a unique blend of chanson evening and pop concert when combined with the ubiquitous hits. Just four weeks before his death, Udo Jürgens expressed his joy about the program and wished Michael much success in a personal conversation. In this spirit, Michael von Zalejski also avoids offering the audience an imitation show (as is so common these days) and consciously focuses on the tribute. His success is evident in the concerts he has given in cities such as Leipzig, Dortmund, Saarbrücken, and Munich. "I expected a 'good Udo Jürgens,' but I got to know a fantastic Michael von Zalejski. I will come back!" said one of about four hundred enthusiastic visitors at his open-air concert in Munich's Residenzhof.