The song “Live is Life” is about enjoying life, staying positive, and celebrating the moment, despite setbacks or difficulties. The title contains a pun that gives the song’s theme extra power. The song encourages living in the moment (live) and enjoying existence (life).

For people in Austria, “Live is Life” by the pop- and rockband Opus holds a special significance as an icon of Austrian pop music. It is well known that the rockband also enjoyed their live performances immensely. This international hit truly reflected their commitment to live performances.

The song is often associated with festive occasions, sports events, and a sense of togetherness, and it evokes feelings of pride and national recognition. For many Austrians, it is also nostalgic, as it was extremely popular in the 1980s and brings back memories of that era.

Pure nostalgia indeed! How many times as a child did I break into this song, singing along loudly and clapping along with my brothers or friends? It was also a regular occurrence when I played radio djane with my niece.

It even has an added meaning these days. I already mentioned that for the band Opus, life was lived "live" on stage. Just look at how many people nowadays, at a special moment in life like a great concert, are staring at a screen. For me, this song now also means: just enjoy the ‘analog life.’ Put down your phone, and connect with each other! I would rather create beautiful memories than just take pretty pictures.

My name is Magdalena Rennert. I was born and raised in Austria. At 19, I came to the Netherlands to study, or even better: to Enschede! And although that wasn't my initial intention, I simply stayed. Married and with two lovely children, I really feel at home here.

This year, I have lived in Enschede for as long as I have ever lived in Austria. My roots may be in Austria, and you will never really leave that. But I have truly rooted here in Enschede, and more importantly, I am continuing to thrive here.