Ein Ehrenwertes Haus (Version 2000)

Udo Jürgens' song "Ein Ehrenwertes Haus (Version 2000)" offers a satirical critique of societal norms and the facade of respectability. The narrative unfolds in a seemingly respectable apartment building where the protagonist and their partner have been living for a year. Despite being well-known in the community, they receive a letter from their neighbors urging them to leave because they don't fit the image of the "honorable" house. This sets the stage for a humorous yet biting commentary on the hypocrisy and superficiality of societal standards.

The song cleverly highlights the contradictions within the community. While the neighbors claim to uphold "decency and morality," they themselves are depicted as flawed individuals. The list of signatories includes a real estate agent who cheats legally, a journalist who thrives on gossip, and a corrupt building official. These characters, along with others like the tax-evading yuppie and the lawyer who twists the law, reveal the double standards and moral failings of those who judge the protagonist. Jürgens uses these characters to expose the absurdity of societal judgments based on appearances and conformity.

Ultimately, the song suggests that the protagonist and their partner are better off leaving the "honorable" house to avoid becoming like their hypocritical neighbors. The repeated refrain "hey, hey, hey" adds a playful yet critical tone, emphasizing the ridiculousness of the situation. Through this song, Udo Jürgens invites listeners to reflect on the true meaning of respectability and the importance of authenticity over superficial conformity.