This paper studies linguistic interpretation of value orientations by German and Russian rock musicians based on song lyrics by West German rock musician Rio Reiser and his Soviet counterpart Alexander Bashlachev. A comparative study comprising descriptive, component and contextual analysis is undertaken. It is argued that the mere fact of addressing a theme by song writers signifies the importance of values relevant to musicians. The author identifies principal subjects in song writing as rejection of power, dissatisfaction with current situation (lack of principle, passivity, indifference) which reflect the main values and anti-values held by rock musicians, i.e. issues of freedom and lack thereof. It is concluded that ethical values tend to dominate over aesthetic, utilitarian and hedonistic ones. Alongside morphological analysis of song lyrics, the author examines precedent phenomena (names and statements), culturemes and evaluative vocabulary widely used by both musicians. Common and distinguishing features are identified in the song material studied. While both Reiser and Bashlachev demonstrate values of similar orientation (longing for liberty), the Soviet artist concentrates on the poet's destination and freedom of art — unlike his German colleague. Reference points also appear different: Bashlachev tends to draw on Russia's historic past and allegories, while Reiser's texts feature direct appeals to resistance, straightforwardness and unambiguity. Reiser appears to get his inspiration from reality and musical texts whereas Bashlachev tends to draw on literature and folk art. Lyrics by both musicians feature predominantly negative assessment. Reiser makes a wide use of more explicit vocabulary; Bashlachev, on the contrary, adheres to stylistically neutral language. The novelty of the research lies in a comparative approach to the selected material.