demusic1-9, Exercise 1: Choosing a language

Model answer (check the details):

Scorpions sang largely in English, which was the language of the world rock market, and so were able to reach audiences in the United States and elsewhere. This fits the long-standing assumption that rock was an Anglo-American form.

Rammstein sing mostly in German, with the sound of the language itself part of the band's identity, and still sell widely abroad, including to listeners who do not understand the words. Their success suggests that a strong sound and spectacular live shows can carry a band across languages.

What it tells us: a German rock act no longer has to choose English to reach a world audience, though the choice still matters to the band's image. Language is an artistic and commercial decision, not a fixed rule.