A short Alphaville interview from a German magazine about the arrival of Rick in spring 1985

The 14th of March 1985 was a magical moment for all Alphaville fans. In the German TV show "Känguru", the brand new Alphaville crew had a big test to overcome. In a matter of seconds the picture was clear: The new crew member, the 24-year-old multi-talented Rick Echolette (from Berlin) was a direct hit for the Münster band.

Int: Rick, you came in from nowhere, and are now standing as the member of the best known German pop band. Has this been a good experience?

Rick: Actually, it's a bit like a dream. You have to consider, that up until now I have never been standing in the spotlight, and the "Känguru-show" is my very first television appearence ever. Of course, I have been very nervous, but Marian and Bernhard are all professionals, and have calmed me down, so this has taken my first nervousness.

Int: What has changed definite with the new member?

Marian: First of all, Alphaville is a band for friends. We put great effort in a good working environment. Besides, it was very important for us that the "new" is coming from our circle of friends. Musically we have, with the help from Rick, as far as possible expanded even more. The "new" does not just play great keyboards, but he also handles guitar and bass.

Int: In January you've completely re-recorded the forthcoming single "Jet Set" wih the new crew, and written a song for the film Der Bulle und Das Mädchen.

Rick: I've been practicing as a maniac, so I wouldn't disappoint the others. Together we have new-arranged "Jet Set". The album track was recorded and co-written by my predecessor, Frank Mertens. "Golden Feeling" - the title song for the Bulle film, is soon to be my very first composition for and with Alphaville.

Int: Are you moving to Münster now to live with the band?

Rick: Yes, I live in Marian's room in the famous apartment, but I'm keeping my place in Berlin. As soon as things are working out somehow, the whole "Nelson Project" will move to Berlin.

Int: Do you, without argument, agree with the Alphaville philosophy, the outfit and band name?

Rick: I'm an old friend of Marian, and we have previously worked together. We are on the same wavelength. As a film freak, I've always from time to time been working for film creators, so I stand for the futuristic concept. I have also, together with Marian and Bernhard written the screenplay for our video "Jet Set". As to our "outfit", I have no problems. I wear modern clothes.

Int: Who came up with your name?

Rick: All three of us. As a citizen of Alphaville, my first name was Kit Nova, then it became Rick Casanova. Then sometime into the night, we found Rick Echolette an appropriate name. That's how the name came to life.