The German band Rammstein is known for their sometimes controversial lyrics, yet they have consistently climbed the chart peaks with their songs. Today, coinciding with the release of their new album ZEIT, we present you with five of the best Rammstein songs and provide an interpretation of the often quite intense lyrics!
1. Du riechst so gut – HERZELEID (1995)
The lyrics of the debut single "Du riechst so gut" might trigger an uneasy feeling in some. With passages like "Die Ufer sind Vernunft und Trieb, Ich steig dir nach" or "Ich finde dich," the song directly conveys a feeling of being pursued, perhaps even evoking thoughts of stalking.
Also, the line "Ich warte bis es dunkel ist, dann fass ich an die nasse Haut" strongly suggests that the lyrical I in the song is stalking someone. But what is the song really about?
There is no official interpretation or meaning, but many fans suspect that the song may allude to Patrick Süskind's book Perfume. The book deals with a man with an exceptional sense of smell who stalks women to kill them and then create perfume from their scent. Till Lindemann has also drawn inspiration from German literature in many other lyrics, which makes this conclusion quite plausible. However, this theory is not officially confirmed.
2. Keine Lust – REISE, REISE (2004)
The music video for the song "Keine Lust" is definitely one of the band's most successful videos! But what exactly are the lyrics about? They strongly play on the theme of sexuality but are also very contradictory.
For instance, Lindemann sings in one verse "Ich hätte Lust zu onanieren," while the next verse states "Hab keine Lust es zu probieren." But what exactly is meant by "Ich hätte Lust mit großen Tieren, hab keine Lust es zu riskieren"?
Thematically, the text addresses a much broader theme. It's about not wanting to engage in repetitive and everyday activities. So, the theme of sex is not actually the main subject of the song. Instead, it focuses on themes such as lack of motivation, lack of drive, and complacency.
3. Ich tu dir weh – LIEBE IST FÜR ALLE DA (2009)
Just the title alone suggests that this song is probably not about love. However, it definitely involves sex, specifically sadomasochistic practices. For instance, Lindemann sings lines like "Ein kleiner Schnitt und du wirst geil" and "Ich tu’ dir weh, tut mir nicht Leid."
Due to its lyrics, the song was initially indexed by the Federal Department for Media Harmful to Young Persons. It was not allowed to be played at concerts, for example. However, a legal challenge was successful, and today the song no longer faces any restrictions.
Ultimately, the lyrics are intense because they deal with sadomasochism and the associated fantasies. This isn't for everyone, but as tastes vary, opinions will differ.
4. Spiel mit mir – SEHNSUCHT (1997)
The lyrics of "Spiel mit mir" might initially suggest that the song deals with abuse. More specifically, the lyrics describe an incestuous relationship between two brothers as merely a game.
This song brought considerable criticism to the band members, as it tackles a significant taboo and also focuses on sexual acts between children. While the band has stated that the lyrics are meant to criticize toxic family relationships, primarily criticizing parents rather than children, opinions are deeply divided over whether the song condones abuse.
5. Deutschland – RAMMSTEIN (2019)
Our final song once again stirred controversy in the music world. Lines like "Deutschland über allen" or video clips showing band members hanging in concentration camp prisoner uniforms led to renewed allegations of right-wing political leanings. But what is the song really about?
In short, it is an examination of German history, covering eras such as the Middle Ages, Roman times, and the DDR. The lyrics express mixed feelings about their homeland, Germany. This is also reflected in lines such as "Deutschland, mein Herz in Flammen, will dich lieben und verdammen."
Thus, the band focused the video on Germany's darkest times. Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide what they accept as artistic freedom and what they do not.
Secure the new Rammstein album ZEIT
The new album is finally here! Let's see what intense lyrics we might enjoy this time. Rumors are already circulating online that ZEIT could be the band's last album. Which new Rammstein songs have made it into your playlist?
