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Nena's "Songs & Photos" is a unique 1980s release combining a handful of hit songs with a photo book by famed photographer Jim Rakete. It showcases Nena's pop appeal and the importance of image within the New Wave era. While musically limited, it highlights Nena's status as a pop star and style icon.
Nena's "Songs & Photos" stands out in her discography as an experiment in combining music and visuals. While listed as an album, this 1984 release included a photo book alongside a vinyl record featuring a limited number of tracks.
A New Wave Snapshot
Musically, "Songs & Photos" features a mix of existing Nena hits, including "? (Fragezeichen)" and an English version of "99 Luftballons." There's a strong emphasis on showcasing Nena's pop sensibility, offering a more accessible side to her sound than some later releases.
Focus on Image
The accompanying photo book, shot by iconic German rock photographer Jim Rakete, was the centerpiece of this project. It offered candid and stylized images of Nena and her band, cementing her image as a dynamic New Wave star with a playful edge.
Behind the Concept
The idea for "Songs & Photos" likely aimed to capitalize on Nena's immense popularity at the time. It served as both a musical release and a visual treat for her dedicated fans. The production teams likely mirrored those of her successful "? (Fragezeichen)" album.
Reception and Legacy
While "Songs & Photos" might be considered a side project in Nena's career, it offers an interesting look at early music marketing strategies. The emphasis on image highlights how vital visuals were to the New Wave era and how artists built their brands beyond just the music.
Album Summary: NENA album: "Songs and Photos" in semi-boxed album cover package |
Music Genre: Pop, Rock, Krautrock |
Producers: Recorded in Spliff Studio, Berlin (Germany). Produced by Reinhold Heil and Manne Praeker |
Album Packaging / Information: Original custom inner sleeve with album details, and photos. |
Record Label Information: CBS 25 264 (25264) , Hate Production |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
Year & Country: 1983 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: NENA Songs & Photos |
Track Listing of: NENA Songs & Photos |
Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Group photo of the NENA band lying on the floor
"Songs and Photos" Record Label Details: Grey Shading colour CBS 25 264 , Made in Holland
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