Gabriele Susanne Kerner, also known as Nena, was born in 1960 and rose to fame as one of the most successful German singers in the early 1980s. She was one of the few musicians from Germany who achieved international success.
Despite her early hits like “Leuchtturm” and “Nur geträumt” bringing smiles to the faces of her diverse audience, Nena’s concert in Nuremberg showcased her newer and current songs, proving that she is not solely reliant on her past successes. Over the decades, Nena has continuously reinvented herself musically and remained active in the music industry, even participating as a judge in the SAT1 casting show “The Voice of Germany.”
At the concert, Nena’s energy and passion on stage displayed her unwavering dedication to her craft. Unlike some of her peers who cling to the past, Nena continues to create music that resonates with audiences of all ages, fostering a sense of unity and connection that is unique to a pop concert experience.
Moreover, Nena’s concert was a family affair, with her son Sakias serving as a background singer and even performing a solo piece. Her other son, Simeon, played the keyboard alongside the talented band, while her daughter Larissa showcased her impressive vocal abilities and inherited entertainer qualities on stage. Larissa, along with her partner Janick, opened the evening with techno beats under the duo “Issa Bloch.”
Throughout her career, Nena has been a seeker, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and connection. Despite facing criticism for her stance on governmental measures during the early 2020s to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, Nena has managed to move past the controversies and shed the “Querdenker” label that plagued her reputation.
While some may find comfort in nostalgic hits like “Irgendwie, irgendwo, irgendwann,” Nena’s music continues to evolve, offering a diverse and engaging concert experience. Her enduring optimism, highlighted by lyrics like “seh die Welt in Trümmern liegen” from her Cold War-era hit “99 Luftballons,” reflects her belief that the world is not yet in ruins. Nena’s concert in Nuremberg was a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her artistry.