The American magazine chose the Swedish group’s most memorable tracks
THE ABBAformed in Sweden in 1972, quickly became one of the most iconic pop groups in music history. Composed of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, the quartet conquered the world with their unique style of vocal harmonies, catchy melodies and emotive lyrics. His timeless songs continue to influence generations and hold a special place in the hearts of fans, from 70s clubs to contemporary playlists.
In honor of ABBA’s enduring importance, the Rolling Stone Americana prepared a list of the group’s best songs. Check it out:
10. Waterloo (1974)
In the beginning, ABBA was just another Swedish band, without much prominence. But this tribute to Bowie became Sweden’s entry into the 1974 Eurovision contest. Waterloo not only did it win, it also launched ABBA to global fame, becoming their first hit in the US. Even with some slip-ups when singing in English (“The heeeestory booook on the shelf/Is always repeating itself”), this only added charm to the band. They performed on the fifth episode of Saturday Night Live, lip-syncing Waterloo aboard the Titanic.
9. Take a Chance on Me (1977)
Many speakers were damaged by fans listening to the a cappella intro in detail. Take a Chance on Me is an engaging invitation with a touch of seduction from Agnetha. The group Erasure made a version in 1992, which boosted ABBA’s revival in the 90s.
8. The Winner Takes It All (1980)
A classic break-up song, with Agnetha dominating the melody to the sound of a melancholy piano. The Winner Takes It AllIt’s a high point in the film Mamma Miabut it is also memorable in The Tripwhere two characters remember their disappointments when singing this song.
7. The Visitors (1981)
ABBA has become darker and more experimental over the years, culminating in this gem of dark ’80s synth-pop. The Visitors addresses themes of isolation with an electronic rhythm, where female voices sing about an oppressive environment. It’s proof that the band continued to try until the end.
6. Hey, Hey Helen (1975)
A glam-rock anthem for divorced mothers, Hey, Hey Helen was one of the first songs to capture the feminist spirit of the 70s. Anni-Frid and Agnetha bring power to this song that encourages independence. It’s surprising this song was left out of the movies Mamma Miabut it would be perfect for a third film.
5. Mamma Mia (1975)
Björn and Benny master the use of the xylophone here. Mamma Mia is a masterpiece with several sonic twists – a true collection of hits in three and a half minutes. The song was too “European” for American radio at the time, but although it wasn’t as successful in the US, it became a classic, even influencing artists like David Bowie, who was a fan.
4. SOS (1975)
Play this song alongside something Joy Division or The Cure and you will notice the gothic side of ABBA. SOSreflects Nordic melancholy and was a great influence on post-punk and new wave artists (fun fact: it is the only song in history in which the title and band name are palindromes).
“ABBA was one of the first bands to address midlife issues”fan Pete Townshend revealed to Rolling Stone in 1982. “When I heard ‘SOS’ on the radio in the US, I was transported.”
3. The Name of the Game (1977)
The Name of the Game It’s an epic piece, with brass and a choir that seem from another world. The lyrics reflect a young woman seeking confidence, bringing an anticipation of themes that would later be explored by artists like Taylor Swift.
2. Knowing Me, Knowing You (1976)
With well-crafted harmonies, this song about the end of a marriage reflects pain and acceptance. In the chorus, the famous “aaah-haaaaa” is unforgettable, capturing the essence of someone saying goodbye to a past.
1. Dancing Queen (1976)
Sometimes a band’s most famous song can also be their best. ABBA, always the pinnacle of pop, made music for everyone, and in some ways it’s poetic that their brightest moment is also their most universally loved. Dancing Queen is a disco anthem, and it’s incredible how the girls’ voices explode with joy when they sing “tambourine… oh YEEEEAAAH!” (No one will ever sing the word “tambourine” like Agnetha and Anni-Frid.) The piano intro triggers an almost euphoric sensation in anyone who knows what it is to (1) dance, (2) enjoy, and/or (3) ) live the best time of your life on a track where the girls are in charge and the boys are just extras. (“Anyone can be that guy” – a classic ABBA taunt.) That’s it: watch this girl, watch this scene, and enjoy the Dancing Queen, forever.
Source: Rollingstone
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
