Happy Nation

About this song

The song was written to address the past of Ulf Ekberg, one of Ace of Base's four members, who had been involved in a neo-Nazi group as a teenager before rejecting that past before joining the band. The band has described it as an anti-fascist song and a hymn to life. Ekberg has said he has always deeply regretted that period of his life.

What it's about

The song is meant as a rejection of fascism and a celebration of life. Its clunky lyrics, written by songwriters who are not native English speakers, have led some listeners to misread it over time, including a claim that it praised the Nazi party.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 1 other song, like “Intelligent Dancecore Music by Odaxelagnia”.
• Written and produced by Jonas Berggren and Ulf Ekberg.
• Recorded at Tuff Studio.