About this album
Where they were
By 2002, Herbert Grönemeyer was a prominent figure in German pop music, having achieved significant success with his previous album 'Bleibt Alles Anders' in 2000. 'Mensch' marked his return after a period of personal tragedy, as he navigated the loss of loved ones while creating this deeply reflective work.
Why it matters
'Mensch' was a commercial triumph, debuting at number one on the German charts and remaining there for several weeks, solidifying Grönemeyer's status in the music industry. The album’s themes of humanity and resilience resonated widely, leading to its recognition as one of the best-selling albums in Germany's history.
Essential tracks
- "Mensch" — 'Mensch' serves as the title track and encapsulates the album's core theme of exploring what it means to be human amidst life's challenges.
- "Der Weg" — This track stands out for its poignant reflection on life’s journey and the inevitability of change, showcasing Grönemeyer's lyrical depth and emotional delivery.
- "Lache, wenn es nicht zum Weinen reicht" — This song blends melancholy with a touch of irony, offering a unique perspective on coping with sorrow through humor, representing the album’s complex emotional landscape.
- "Viertel vor" — 'Viertel vor' features an infectious melody paired with introspective lyrics about time and existence, highlighting Grönemeyer’s ability to fuse pop sensibilities with profound themes.
Release Date
August 30, 2002
Artist Origin
Germany
Tracklist
- 1 Mensch 4:28
- 2 Neuland 3:44
- 3 Der Weg 4:18
- 4 Viertel vor 4:23
- 5 Lache, wenn es nicht zum Weinen reicht 4:43
- 6 Unbewohnt 5:04
- 7 Dort und hier 2:33
- 8 Blick zurück 5:54
- 9 Kein Pokal 4:33
- 10 Zum Meer 5:45
- 11 Demo (Letzter Tag) / [silence] / [untitled] 20:41
