With “Happy 2bD” Farin Urlaub takes an ironic look at Germany, identity and the shift to the right. He has also announced a solo album for autumn 2026.
After the announcement of the tour for 2027, Die-Ärzte fans can look forward to it again: a solo album was also announced by singer and songwriter Farin Urlaub.
The first single “Happy 2bD” was released on all streaming services on April 24th. But what is behind this cryptic song title?
What is it actually about now?
“Happy to be German” is what Farin Urlaub sings in his new song – but in an ironic way, as we are already used to from his music. He makes derisive comments about German culture, identity and pride. Here is an excerpt from the new track: “Our bridges are collapsing (bridges are collapsing). Houses are falling over (houses are falling over). Trains are standing still (trains are standing still). Ask yourself why. I know no one wants to hear that. We are a nation of amateurs. We are probably better at destroying.”
What he says about the shift to the right
Farin Urlaub also doesn’t leave current political issues and developments untouched. He draws attention to the shift to the right in Germany with the following words in “Happy 2bD”: “But now everything is getting better, now everything is going to be fine. We are very good and don’t shed any blood. Things are going up and in Germany’s trend. The AfD at 88 percent” and “It’s a right-wing phenomenon, not so nice, not so smart. Will Europe be on fire again because of us?”
Listen to “Happy 2bD” here:
And the sound?
His new song is comparatively less rocky and is musically more reminiscent of Neue Deutsche Welle. This isn’t the Die Ärzte singer’s first solo project either: Farin Urlaub has been recording music for around 25 years, sometimes without his bandmates Bela B and odrigo González.
Because there is always something to say. And the entire album is scheduled to be released in fall 2026.
