Die Fantastischen Vier ("The Fantastic Four"), often shortened to Fanta 4, … Read Full Bio ↴Die Fantastischen Vier ("The Fantastic Four"), often shortened to Fanta 4, is a German hip hop band from Stuttgart. The members are Michael Schmidt (Smudo), Andreas Rieke, Thomas Dürr, janitor), and Michi Beck. They were, together with Advanced Chemistry, an early group to rap in the German language.

In the mid-1980s, Rieke and Schmidt formed the Terminal Team, which Dürr and Beck joined in 1989. Under the new name Die Fantastischen Vier they made German hip hop, or Deutschen Sprechgesang (German spoken-song) as they called it, popular in Germany. Although there were German hip-hop artists prior to them (such as Advanced Chemistry from Heidelberg), it was Die Fantastischen Vier who registered the first chart hit with their 1992 single "Die da?!" (Her?!) from the album 4 gewinnt, hitting No. 2 in Germany and No. 1 in Austria and Switzerland.

After traveling to Los Angeles in the late 1980s, the group realized the lack of connection between the struggles of "the poor blacks in the United States and middle-class whites in Germany", and made a conscious effort to move away from the typical and cliché American gangsta rap. The group never got involved with gangsta rap clichés, reacting with tongue-in-cheek humor to verbal attacks of alleged German 'gangsta rappers'. In the albums following 4 gewinnt, the band matured and progressed to a more serious and philosophic style.

In addition to the group's works, Thomas D, Hausmarke, and Ypsilon also produced successful solo albums and the four had their own weekly show Die 4. Dimension, named after their third album, which aired on the German pay TV channel Premiere in 1993 and 1994. At the 1996 Popkomm in Cologne, Die Fantastischen Vier announced the establishment of their label, Four Music. Headquarters were in Stuttgart, but were later moved to Berlin-Kreuzberg.

Three years later, the group's seventh album 4:99 was released on their own label, with four singles from the album following. After the No. 2 hit "MfG", three singles were released at the same time, a first in German music business. Each one can be associated with one of the rappers: "Le Smou" (Smudo), "Michi Beck in Hell" (Michi Beck), and "Buenos Dias Messias" (Thomas D).

In late September 2004, the group released the album Viel, the following tour being their most successful and best-attended to date.

In 2005, Fanta 4's first greatest-hits album, Best of 1990-2005, was published. It includes all singles, as well as several other songs and rare footage from the group's early days, when they were still called Terminal Team and rapped in English.

On 7 April 2007, the number-one album Fornika was released, preceded by the single "Ernten was wir säen" (Reap what we sow). The song was released as a download for Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock in December 2007 and was covered by rock band Oomph! in 2009.

Die Fantastischen Vier are also the German voices of the Penguins (Michael Beck as Skipper, Thomas D. as Kowalski, Andreas Rieke as Rico and Michael Bernd Schmidt as Private) in the Madagascar film series.

In 2010, Für dich immer noch Fanta Sie peaked again at number one of the German charts. The 2014 release of the album Rekord marked the 25th anniversary of the band. It also topped the charts in Germany. In 2018, the single "Zusammen", featuring Clueso, from the album Captain Fantastic, was chosen as the official song for the 2018 FIFA World Cup by German public broadcaster Das Erste.

Full Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Die_Fantastischen_Vier

Studio albums
Jetzt geht’s ab (1991)
4 gewinnt (1992)
Die 4. Dimension (1993)
Lauschgift (1995)
4:99 (1999)
Viel (2004)
Fornika (2007)
Für dich immer noch Fanta Sie (2010)
Rekord (2014)
Captain Fantastic (2018)

Troy
Die Fantastischen Vier Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Clap your hands and it's good

Go
F zu dem A, N, T, A, S
Alles klar, jetzt gibt's Megastress
Ihr wolltet gerade gehen, ahah, vergesst's
Wir wollen doch mal sehen, wer hier wen verlässt
Du sagst, du liebst jetzt 'ne andere Band

I'm sorry, I don't understand?
Auch wenn die letzten Jahre schwierig waren
Was haben die denn schon, was wir nicht haben?
Versteh' schon, du hast dich halt allein gefühlt
Und nach der langen Zeit 'n leichtes Spiel
Dich einfach wieder mal nur zu berühren
Du ließt dich nur verführen, um irgendwas zu spüren
Aber nur wir wissen, was du wirklich brauchst (jaja)
Ging's dir beschissen, fingen wir dich auf (jaja)
Und ging's dir besser waren wir auch dabei
Klar hätt' das ausgereicht, aber wir brauchten Zeit
Wir mussten weiter, noch 'n bisschen um die Häuser ziehen
Wir wussten beide, 'ne Beziehung lebt durch neue Ideen
Waren wir zusammen nicht 'n Spitzenteam
Das haben wir nicht verdient, wir haben die Hits geschrieben
Ich beweise, dass wir nichts davon verloren haben
Wir fangen nochmal ganz von vorne an
Und hören nicht drauf, was all die Leute reden
Glaub' mir, wir sind dir bis heute troy geblieben!

Yeah!

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Wir waren mit dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Du hattest schlechte Zeiten
Und wir waren auch dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Die Zeit war hart, kein High nur Low (nur Low)
Und immer wieder diese Popstar-Show (die Show)
Bei keinem anderen war es wieder so
Wie bei der coolen Band um Smu-D-O
Du hattest deinen Spaß von Date zu Date
Doch irgendwie hat irgendwo immer irgendwas gefehlt
Ey, spielt keine Rolle wie viel Zeit vergeht
Für wahre Liebe ist es nie zu spät
Du weißt, du und ich das war schon was
Wir rauchten Stash und Weed und Gras en masse
Ich hab dich vollgetextet, du hast zugehört
Wir hatten tollen Sex mit allem Zubehör
Ich frage: „Was ist alt und rostet eh nicht?
Was hält jung und kostet wenig?“
Fan and Band, Girl and Boy, Siegfried and Roy
Troy!

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Wir waren mit dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Du hattest schlechte Zeiten
Und wir waren auch dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (und wir bleiben troy)

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Wir waren mit dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Du hattest schlechte Zeiten
Und wir waren auch dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (und wir bleiben troy)

Wir kennen uns 'ne halbe Ewigkeit
Hatten zu jeder Zeit nur wenig Streit
Nur ab und zu gab's mal ein bisschen Knatsch
Durch all den Klatsch und Tratsch fühltest du dich verarscht, aber
Es war nicht schwer dich wieder rumzukriegen
Diese vier Jungs sind zum Verlieben
Scheint, als wären wir immer jung geblieben
Waren nicht sehr verschwiegen, aber schwer verschieden
Mal brauchtest du jemand, eloquent und gelehrt
Der dir die Welt erklärt oder mit dir Rennen fährt
Mal wolltest du 'n bisschen tiefer gehen
Alternative Ideen zu unserm miesen System
Oder dir war mal eher so nach Luxus-Yacht
Und wir haben durchgemacht im coolsten Club der Stadt
Doch immer trafen wir den richtigen Ton
Machten dir nie was vor, hätte sich nicht gelohnt (yeah)
Kaum 'ne Band im Land die dir troyer war
Bei der die CD dir nie zu teuer war
Musik ist Therapie, wir sind versteuerbar
Jetzt sag mir nochmal, du hast 'nen neuen Star, pah!
Ist schon OK, ich versteh' dich ja
Ja, ich find' ja auch, dass er mir ähnlich sah
Jetzt komm' mal her, die Warterei ist vorbei!
Wir sind wieder bei dir und wir bleiben dir troy!

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Wir waren mit dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Du hattest schlechte Zeiten
Und wir waren auch dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (und wir bleiben troy)

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Wir waren mit dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (troy)

Du hattest schlechte Zeiten
Und wir waren auch dabei
Wir werden dich begleiten
Wir bleiben troy (und wir bleiben troy)

Troy, so troy
Troy, so troy
Und wir bleiben troy
Troy, so troy
Troy, so troy
Und wir bleiben troy
Troy, so troy
Troy, so troy

Hey, hey, hey ich war dein troyer Begleiter
Hey, hey, hey die Fantas sind in der Stadt
Hey, hey, hey wir machen uns bisschen breiter

Und hören Hip Hop
Wir hören Hip Hop

Overall Meaning

Die lyrics to Die Fantastischen Vier's song Troy describe a relationship between the band and their friend, who seems to have gone through some tough times and is potentially considering leaving the band behind. The band assures their friend that, despite any difficulties they may have faced, they've always been there for him (using "troy" as a portmanteau of "true" and "loyal"). They reminisce about the good times they've had together, both in personal and professional contexts, and urge their friend not to leave them behind for someone or something else. The song is a testament to the power of long-lasting friendships and musical collaboration.

The band's use of the word "Troy" in the song has become iconic in German culture, with the term being used to describe a loyal friend or supporter.

The song was released in 1999 and was an immediate hit, reaching the top of the German charts.

The lyrics were written by the band's lead rapper Smudo, and the music was composed by the entire group.

Troy was included on the band's sixth studio album, titled 4:99, and was also released as a single.

The music video for the song, which features the band members dressed as superheroes, won several awards at German music video festivals.

The song has been covered by several other musicians, including a version in 2003 by the German band Oomph! featuring Die Fantastischen Vier.

Die Fantastischen Vier has been active since 1989 and were one of the first German hip hop groups to achieve widespread success in their home country.

The band has released several albums over the years, and their music combines elements of hip hop with rock, pop, and electronic music.

Die Fantastischen Vier have won numerous awards throughout their career, including multiple Echo Awards (the German equivalent of the Grammy Awards).

The band's pioneering work in German hip hop has earned them a place in the genre's history, and they continue to be influential to younger generations of musicians.

Chords: F Am G C

Line by Line Meaning

Clap your hands and it's good
When you show enthusiasm and support, everything becomes positive and enjoyable.

F zu dem A, N, T, A, S
Referring to the initials of the band, the line emphasizes their identity and unity.

Alles klar, jetzt gibt's Megastress
Acknowledging the difficult times they have faced recently, which have caused a lot of stress.

Ihr wolltet gerade gehen, ahah, vergesst's
Addressing the notion of leaving or giving up and suggesting not to forget about their commitment and perseverance.

Wir wollen doch mal sehen, wer hier wen verlässt
Expressing the desire to witness who will ultimately leave whom, highlighting the band's determination to stay together.

Du sagst, du liebst jetzt 'ne andere Band
Acknowledging that the listener claims to love another band now.

I'm sorry, I don't understand?
Expressing confusion or disbelief about the listener's newfound love for another band.

Auch wenn die letzten Jahre schwierig waren
Acknowledging that the previous years have been challenging.

Was haben die denn schon, was wir nicht haben?
Questioning what the other band has or offers that is superior to what they have.

Versteh' schon, du hast dich halt allein gefühlt
Understanding that the listener might have felt alone or isolated.

Und nach der langen Zeit 'n leichtes Spiel
Implying that it was easy to be tempted or swayed after a long period of time.

Dich einfach wieder mal nur zu berühren
Referring to the listener's desire for a familiar touch or connection.

Du ließt dich nur verführen, um irgendwas zu spüren
Implying that the listener allowed themselves to be tempted just to feel something, even if it wasn't genuine.

Aber nur wir wissen, was du wirklich brauchst (jaja)
Emphasizing that only the band truly knows what the listener needs.

Ging's dir beschissen, fingen wir dich auf (jaja)
Highlighting the band's support in times when the listener felt miserable or down.

Und ging's dir besser waren wir auch dabei
Stating that they were also there for the listener when things were going well.

Klar hätt' das ausgereicht, aber wir brauchten Zeit
Acknowledging that their support and presence might have been enough, but they needed time to grow and evolve.

Wir mussten weiter, noch 'n bisschen um die Häuser ziehen
Indicating that they needed to continue their journey and explore new experiences.

Wir wussten beide, 'ne Beziehung lebt durch neue Ideen
Recognizing the importance of new ideas and experiences to keep a relationship alive.

Waren wir zusammen nicht 'n Spitzenteam
Reflecting on the fact that they weren't necessarily a top team when they were together.

Das haben wir nicht verdient, wir haben die Hits geschrieben
Asserting that they, as a band, deserve more recognition and success because they have written hits.

Ich beweise, dass wir nichts davon verloren haben
Claiming that they still possess all the qualities and skills required for success.

Wir fangen nochmal ganz von vorne an
Deciding to start fresh and make a fresh start.

Und hören nicht drauf, was all die Leute reden
Ignoring the opinions and gossip of others.

Glaub' mir, wir sind dir bis heute troy geblieben!
Reassuring the listener that they have remained loyal and devoted until today.

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Acknowledging that the listener has had good times.

Wir waren mit dabei
Stating that the band has been there throughout those good times.

Wir werden dich begleiten
Promising to continue accompanying the listener.

Wir bleiben troy (troy)
Asserting that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener, as 'troy' means 'loyal' or 'true' in this context.

Die Zeit war hart, kein High nur Low (nur Low)
Describing a difficult time with constant lows instead of highs.

Und immer wieder diese Popstar-Show (die Show)
Referencing the superficial and artificial nature of the pop star world.

Bei keinem anderen war es wieder so
Recognizing that they haven't experienced the same connection and chemistry with any other artist.

Wie bei der coolen Band um Smu-D-O
Highlighting the unique and cool nature of their band, which includes Smudo.

Du hattest deinen Spaß von Date zu Date
Acknowledging that the listener experienced enjoyment and fun from one date to another.

Doch irgendwie hat irgendwo immer irgendwas gefehlt
Expressing that something was always missing or lacking in those experiences.

Ey, spielt keine Rolle wie viel Zeit vergeht
Asserting that the passage of time doesn't matter.

Für wahre Liebe ist es nie zu spät
Stating that it's never too late for true love.

Du weißt, du und ich das war schon was
Reminding the listener of their special connection and history together.

Wir rauchten Stash und Weed und Gras en masse
Recounting the times they enjoyed marijuana in large quantities.

Ich hab dich vollgetextet, du hast zugehört
Recalling how the artist shared many words and thoughts with the listener, who always listened attentively.

Wir hatten tollen Sex mit allem Zubehör
Explaining that they had amazing sex with various accessories.

Ich frage: 'Was ist alt und rostet eh nicht?
Posing a question about something that doesn't age or deteriorate with time.

Was hält jung und kostet wenig?'
Continuing the previous line and indicating that the answer relates to something that keeps a person young and doesn't require much expense.

Fan and Band, Girl and Boy, Siegfried and Roy
Highlighting different relationships, including the dynamic between the band and the listener, and referencing the famous duo Siegfried and Roy.

Troy!
Reiterating the concept of loyalty and remaining true to each other.

Wir kennen uns 'ne halbe Ewigkeit
Acknowledging that they have known each other for a long time.

Hatten zu jeder Zeit nur wenig Streit
Explaining that they have only had minor disagreements throughout their relationship.

Nur ab und zu gab's mal ein bisschen Knatsch
Admitting that there were some small conflicts from time to time.

Durch all den Klatsch und Tratsch fühltest du dich verarscht, aber
Acknowledging that the listener might have felt deceived or manipulated due to rumors and gossip.

Es war nicht schwer dich wieder rumzukriegen
Implying that it wasn't difficult to reconcile and win the listener back.

Diese vier Jungs sind zum Verlieben
Asserting that these four guys are worth falling in love with or being devoted to.

Scheint, als wären wir immer jung geblieben
Suggesting that they have managed to stay young at heart despite the passage of time.

Waren nicht sehr verschwiegen, aber schwer verschieden
Acknowledging that they weren't very discreet, but their differences were significant.

Mal brauchtest du jemand, eloquent und gelehrt
Recognizing that sometimes the listener needed someone intelligent and knowledgeable.

Der dir die Welt erklärt oder mit dir Rennen fährt
Referring to the listener needing someone to explain the world or participate in adventurous activities with them.

Mal wolltest du 'n bisschen tiefer gehen
Acknowledging the listener's desire to explore deeper subjects or emotions.

Alternative Ideen zu unserm miesen System
Expressing that the listener sought alternative ideas or solutions to the flawed system they lived in.

Oder dir war mal eher so nach Luxus-Yacht
Recognizing that the listener might have desired a luxurious yacht at one point.

Und wir haben durchgemacht im coolsten Club der Stadt
Recalling the times they experienced together in the coolest club in town.

Doch immer trafen wir den richtigen Ton
Highlighting the band's ability to always find the right harmony or connection with the listener.

Machten dir nie was vor, hätte sich nicht gelohnt (yeah)
Asserting that they never pretended or deceived the listener because it wouldn't have been worthwhile.

Kaum 'ne Band im Land die dir troyer war
Claiming that there is hardly any other band in the country that has been as loyal as they have to the listener.

Bei der die CD dir nie zu teuer war
Stating that the listener always valued and enjoyed their music, never considering their CD to be too expensive.

Musik ist Therapie, wir sind versteuerbar
Emphasizing that music can be therapeutic and that they are relatable or taxable in some way.

Jetzt sag mir nochmal, du hast 'nen neuen Star, pah!
Challenging the listener to insist again that they have found a new celebrity or star to replace them.

Ist schon OK, ich versteh' dich ja
Assuring the listener that it's alright, and understanding their motives and decisions.

Ja, ich find' ja auch, dass er mir ähnlich sah
Agreeing with the listener that their new star resembles the singer in some way.

Jetzt komm' mal her, die Warterei ist vorbei!
Inviting the listener to come closer and indicating that the wait is over.

Wir sind wieder bei dir und wir bleiben dir troy!
Asserting that they are back with the listener and will remain loyal to them.

Du hattest gute Zeiten
Acknowledging that the listener has had good times.

Wir waren mit dabei
Stating that the band has been there throughout those good times.

Wir werden dich begleiten
Promising to continue accompanying the listener.

Wir bleiben troy (troy)
Asserting that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener, as 'troy' means 'loyal' or 'true' in this context.

Und wir bleiben troy
Reiterating that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener.

Die Fantas sind in der Stadt
Announcing the presence of the band Die Fantastischen Vier in the city.

Wir machen uns bisschen breiter
Promising to expand their influence or presence.

Und hören Hip Hop
Stating that they still listen to and create hip-hop music.

Troy, so troy
Reaffirming their loyalty and devotion by repeating the word 'troy.'

Und wir bleiben troy
Reiterating that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener.

Troy, so troy
Reaffirming their loyalty and devotion by repeating the word 'troy.'

Und wir bleiben troy
Reiterating that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener.

Troy, so troy
Reaffirming their loyalty and devotion by repeating the word 'troy.'

Und wir bleiben troy
Reiterating that they will remain loyal and devoted to the listener.

Hey, hey, hey ich war dein troyer Begleiter
Asserting that the singer was the loyal companion or supporter of the listener.

Hey, hey, hey die Fantas sind in der Stadt
Announcing the presence of the band Die Fantastischen Vier in the city.

Hey, hey, hey wir machen uns bisschen breiter
Promising to expand their influence or presence.