This year’s Reeperbahn Festival saw the Keychange Inspiration Award go to singer-songwriter and activist, Alli Neumann. Presented by Barbara Gessler (Head of the European Commission Representation, Germany), Alli Neumann is recognised for her committed activism to gender equity, embedded in her music and lyrics, while recognising and navigating the intricacies of cultural identities and heritage.

“With your music and your lyrics, you help people free themselves of predefined roles regarding in particular their gender. All too many don’t dare dealing with this in the open and you, Alli, address such issues in your own way, without fear. Courage is something we all need and you, Alli, lead by example. You don’t just bring us closer to Polish culture but in a much broader way help us, your audience, lead our lives in an emancipated manner. Therefore, this year Keychange Inspiration Award goes to you!”
- Barbara Gessler (Head of the European Commission Representation

Alli Neumann took two years to work on her first studio album ‘Madonna Whore Komplex’ album, all about sexism, identity, integrity while on the journey to her own label, JAGA Entertainment. In the making of the album, the musician felt a sense of emotional independence, where in her 12 powerful songs, she exposes, addresses and sets her own boundaries.

Country, funk, blues and lots of guitars - a classic band line-up plus skilful gimmicks with sounds and treatments influenced her multi-faceted debut album. In terms of content, she bid farewell to all naysayers, doubters and those who deny existence, ability, knowledge and self-determination.

Alli's songs get to the heart of the matter and radiate good vibes with lightness and humour. Full of energy and a furious desire to have value in the importance of her work, she sings on Madonna Whore Komplex for all those who (also) suffer from the miserable system.

Alli has been able to express herself artistically in the live arena in recent years. Whether at Dockville, Fusion or as a support act for bands such as Annenmaykantereit or Years & Years, Alli proves on every stage that she is made to perform. Coldplay also recognised inviting her to be the opening act for the German dates of their world tour in 2022. Alli also goes on tour this November, so make sure to catch her play!

“I'm happy about any platform that draws attention to the fact that there is still a lot of work to be done in the music industry to achieve equity. Keychange helps to create awareness and representation for gender diverse artists.”
-Alli Neumann

Awarded at: Reeperbahn Festival 2024

Expertise: Singer, Songwriter, Actor, Activist

Link: Instagram, Spotify, Website