G.O.A.T.: 99 Luftballons by Nena (1983)


THE GREATEST OF ALL TUNES (G.O.A.T.) is a series of posts, producing my 100 favorite songs of all time.  The master list is here, and I update it about every two weeks or when I have another 10 songs or so.

Better known in the U.S. as “99 Red Balloons,” this is the silliest anti-nuke song ever made, complete with a handclapped break and funky musical interlude, the song tells the story of how 99 red balloons are mistaken for an alien invastion by the “war machines” who “spring to life” and … Well, let’s just say hilarity ensues.

Still, the hooks are tremendous.

Fun side note: Nena was famous for two things: This song, and not shaving her armpits.

Further listening: None.  Nena had some other hits, but this is the only one worth hearing.

Covers:






https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9Lt1rwj6R8

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