As Eurovision commences many are remembering the arguably best win, which was ABBA’s performance of Waterloo. Their song “The Winner Takes It All”, really became true as Sweden was handed their first win. If you want to know the impact of ABBA, ask your grandparents or even your parents. In my own family, my grandma loves ABBA. She will often tell me that people don’t make music like ABBA did anymore, though my dad cannot stand them: growing up listening to ABBA constantly means he grew a hate for it.
Love or hate them, ABBA’s legacy will last longer than our lifetimes. Their first song was released in June 1972, 52 years ago. Joined by Pink Floyd and Elton John, ABBA ruled the music industry for years. Even nowadays, ABBA is played and sung everywhere. For example, at the start of a concert, ABBA will probably be played over the speaker. There aren’t many people who don’t know an ABBA song. Out of Dancing Queen, Money Money Money, Mama Mia, Waterloo, and Chiquita, you’ve got to know at least one of these songs!
It goes outside of much more than just the songs, expanding to the trends and culture around ABBA. ABBA first thought of the 70s theme; thus 17th birthday means Dancing Queen by ABBA is played. The musical Mamma Mia was based on ABBA’s songs. ABBA is deeply ingrained within our own culture even 40 years after its disbandment. They are the second most sold-out group only under The Beetles. Their music’s ability to withstand the test of time and pop culture changes is a testament to their musical talent.
What makes ABBA so popular for a group so well known, is that ABBA has much more than unique harmonies and great songwriting. Anyone can have that but no one can have it in the way that ABBA did. Their upbeat music and just overall ethereal feeling while listening to some of their songs; you can’t help but admire their music and talent. The overall style and outfits that ABBA has make them a staple of the 70’s and often give people something to remember or reminisce on.
