Born In Xixax

Nina Hagen's 'Born In Xixax' is a whirlwind of surreal imagery, political commentary, and personal anecdotes, all wrapped in her signature avant-garde style. The song opens with a mock radio broadcast, setting a tone of absurdity and satire. This introduction, filled with laughter and broken sentences, immediately signals that the listener is in for an unconventional experience. Hagen's use of multiple languages and abrupt shifts in tone further emphasize the chaotic nature of the world she describes.

The lyrics paint a fragmented picture of Hagen's fictional birthplace, 'Xixax,' a place that seems to symbolize a world in turmoil. She references her family's struggles, with a junkie father and a soldier brother, highlighting the personal impact of broader socio-political issues. The mention of her uncle being a spy in the Soviet Union and the repeated line about Mr. Brezhnev planning a reunion suggest a Cold War backdrop, filled with espionage and political tension. This chaotic environment is further underscored by the ominous prediction of a 'big disaster' and the possibility of World War III.

Despite the bleakness, Hagen injects a note of hope with the recurring line, 'One day we will be free.' This refrain serves as a beacon of optimism amidst the chaos, suggesting a belief in eventual liberation and peace. The song's erratic structure and eclectic mix of sounds mirror the unpredictability of the world Hagen describes, making 'Born In Xixax' a compelling commentary on the human condition during times of political and social upheaval. Through her unique blend of humor, satire, and earnestness, Hagen captures the essence of a world on the brink, yet still clinging to the hope of freedom.