Definitive Collection cover

Definitive Collection

Nina Hagen

74 min · 17 tracks · punk rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of punk, new wave, and theatrical flair that challenges conventions with audacious energy.

Top tracks — play these first

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    TV-Glotzer (White Punks on Dope) — This track stands out for its sharp critique of consumerism and media obsession, blending punk rock energy with pop sensibilities. Its irreverent lyrics and catchy hooks exemplify Hagen's unique ability to merge social commentary with infectious melodies.
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    African Reggae — Incorporating reggae rhythms and African musical influences, this track showcases Hagen's versatility and commitment to cross-cultural experimentation. It highlights her ability to transcend genre boundaries while maintaining a distinctively provocative message.
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    My Way — Hagen's rendition of this classic song transforms it into a powerful anthem of individuality and defiance. Her theatrical vocal delivery adds layers of emotion, making it a standout moment that captures her artistic spirit.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with peaks
  • theatrical rebellion and chaos
  • engaging sing-along moments
  • for lively gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer predictable, steady pacing
  • seek minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Starting Point — A comprehensive overview of Hagen's career, accessible for new listeners.
Career context
Released in 1999, 'Definitive Collection' encapsulates Nina Hagen's eclectic career trajectory, showcasing her evolution from a punk icon in East Germany to an international avant-garde artist. This compilation comes after her diverse experiments in various genres throughout the 1980s and 90s, reflecting her status as a cultural provocateur.
Stylistic neighbors
Lene Lovich· Kraftwerk· The B-52's

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Unbeschreiblich weiblich 3:33
  • 2 Naturträne 4:09
  • 3 TV-Glotzer (White Punks on Dope) 5:15
  • 4 Heiß 4:11
  • 5 Rangehen 3:28
  • 6 African Reggae 6:20
  • 7 Auf'm Rummel 4:35
  • 8 Smack Jack 5:18
  • 9 Cosma Shiva 3:19
  • 10 Zarah (Ich weiß, es wird einmal ein Wunder geschehn) 5:04
  • 11 New York/N.Y. 5:01
  • 12 Was es ist 4:20
  • 13 The Change 4:42
  • 14 My Way 4:29
  • 15 Universelles Radio 3:36
  • 16 Vater unser 3:23
  • 17 World Now (short version) 3:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata