Radrennbahn Weissensee

Radrennbahn Weissensee is a large cycling track located in the Weissensee district of Berlin.[1] It is north of the park containing the Weisser See.[2] It is also popular for inline skating and skateboarding.

During the time Radrennbahn Weissensee was part of East Berlin, it was also used as a concert venue.[2] Acts such as James Brown and ZZ Top played there, in an attempt to satisfy the musical desires of East German youth.[2] The most known concert held there, and the biggest concert in East German history, was the July 19, 1988 performance of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band on their Tunnel of Love Express.[1] It attracted 160,000 fans and featured Springsteen introducing Bob Dylan's "Chimes of Freedom" by saying, "It's great to be in East Berlin. I want to tell you, I'm not here for or against any government. I came here to play rock-and-roll for you East Berliners in the hope that one day all the barriers will be torn down."[1] It subsequently hosted The Rolling Stones' Urban Jungle Tour in August 1990.

References

  1. ^ a b c Kirschbaum, Erik (18 July 2008). "The Boss at the Wall". Northjersey.com. http://www.northjersey.com/opinion/moreviews/25607384.html. 
  2. ^ a b c Holland, Jack (et al.) (2001). The Rough Guide to Berlin. Rough Guides. ISBN 1858286824.  p. 192.