Berlin – Punk rock icon Nina Hagen, 71, is re-evaluating her 1978 song “Unbeschreiblich Weiblich” (“Indescribably Female”), a track that boldly addressed the topic of abortion and female autonomy. Hagen, who recently released her new album “Highway to Heaven,” has stated she now views the song as a product of “youthful exuberance” and a deliberate attempt to provoke a reaction, rather than a true reflection of her values. The song, featured on the album “Nina Hagen Band,” sparked considerable controversy upon its release and became a defining moment in Hagen’s career, particularly following her departure from East Germany.
Speaking to Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (RBB) on March 27, 2026, Hagen explained that the provocative lyrics were intentionally designed to create a scandal. However, she now feels the song doesn’t align with her current identity or the legacy she wishes to leave behind. Instead, Hagen expressed a desire to draw greater attention to the complexities and difficulties surrounding abortion. This shift in perspective comes decades after the song initially contributed to the construction of Hagen’s image as a rebellious and outspoken artist.
Hagen, who was baptized in 2009, described herself as a “solidarity woman” and revealed she was forced to undergo an abortion at the age of 14. She emphasized that the song doesn’t fully capture the depth of her emotions surrounding that experience. “Aborting children is not something to be proud of,” Hagen stated, a sentiment that marks a significant departure from the defiant tone of the original song. It’s a nuanced position, acknowledging the song’s historical context while distancing herself from its potentially celebratory portrayal of the procedure.
“Unbeschreiblich Weiblich” arrived at a time when discussions surrounding abortion were often taboo, particularly in West Germany. The song’s direct and unapologetic lyrics – including the line “I’m not having any little children” – challenged societal norms and sparked debate about women’s reproductive rights. As Songlexikon.de notes, the song played a role in shaping the public perception of Hagen in the years following her move from East Germany.
Hagen’s new album, “Highway to Heaven,” features collaborations with Nana Mouskouri and Gitte Haenning and leans heavily into gospel music. This stylistic shift reflects a broader spiritual journey for the artist, who has often defied categorization throughout her career. The album’s release coincides with this re-evaluation of her earlier work, suggesting a desire to present a more mature and considered perspective on complex social issues.
The singer’s decision to reject a recent interview request from Playboy underscores her commitment to female solidarity. Hagen explained she doesn’t want to support publications that “exploit women” or contribute to the objectification of the female body. She prefers to use her platform to advocate for women’s rights through more meaningful channels, such as open letters and public discussions.
This isn’t the first time Hagen has revisited her past work with a critical eye. Her willingness to engage in self-reflection and challenge her own previous statements demonstrates a commitment to intellectual honesty and a desire to evolve as an artist and a person. The re-evaluation of “Unbeschreiblich Weiblich” adds another layer to the complex and fascinating story of Nina Hagen, a musician who has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventions throughout her career.
Hagen’s next scheduled performance is at the Tempodrom in Berlin on May 15, 2026, where she will be performing songs from “Highway to Heaven” as well as select tracks from her extensive back catalog. Fans can find more information and purchase tickets on her official website. The conversation surrounding “Unbeschreiblich Weiblich” is likely to continue, prompting further discussion about the intersection of art, politics, and personal experience.
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