Scoreload

German singer and songwriter who achieved international fame in the 1980s with her band Nena and the anti-war anthem "99 Luftballons".Born in Hagen, West Germany; formed band Nena in 1982; released global hit "99 Luftballons" in 1983; disbanded group in 1987 to pursue solo career; continues recording and performing into the 21st century.

• The iconic song "99 Luftballons" was inspired by a Rolling Stones concert where released balloons drifted toward the Berlin Wall during Cold War tensions.
• Nena temporarily retired from music after the band's breakup to raise her four children, returning as a solo artist in the 1990s.
• She founded the alternative school "Neue Schule Hamburg" in 2007, reflecting her interest in educational reform.
• In 2003, she sparked controversy in Germany by questioning official COVID-19 policies during the pandemic.
• Her 2002 remake "99 Red Balloons" (English version) reignited international interest, charting in multiple countries decades after the original.