Nazis Auf Speed

Die Krupps' song 'Nazis Auf Speed' delves into the harrowing and often overlooked aspects of warfare, particularly focusing on the use of drugs to enhance soldier performance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of soldiers being given a mysterious powder, which is a metaphor for methamphetamine, known as Pervitin, used by Nazi soldiers during World War II. This drug was intended to keep soldiers awake and alert, allowing them to fight tirelessly and fearlessly, often at the cost of their health and sanity.

The song's repetitive and aggressive chorus, 'Rammt sie' (which translates to 'Ram them'), underscores the relentless and brutal nature of war. It reflects the dehumanizing effect of the drug, turning soldiers into unfeeling machines driven solely by the objective of victory. The lyrics also highlight the disregard for the soldiers' well-being, emphasizing that the military goal takes precedence over their health. This is a stark commentary on the exploitation and manipulation of individuals in the name of war.

Furthermore, the song captures the psychological toll on soldiers, who are depicted as being caught in a cycle of violence and addiction. The reference to 'no sleep and no tomorrow' illustrates the endless and exhausting nature of their existence, driven by the need to continue fighting. The mention of 'orders waiting' and 'masses cheering below' adds a layer of societal pressure and propaganda, showing how soldiers were celebrated as heroes while being pushed to their limits. Die Krupps uses this song to critique the glorification of war and the inhumane practices that often accompany it, making a powerful statement about the true cost of conflict.