Basil Herwald, one of the 10 UK jurors at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, famously gave Abba “nul points” despite their iconic song Waterloo, which went on to become a hit. He stands by his decision, noting that even at the time of the competition, they did not find the Swedish band particularly impressive. Five UK votes went to the Italian act, with Abba receiving none. Even after winning, Basil and other jurors still believed the Italian song should have been victorious.
After their Eurovision victory, Abba’s rise to superstardom was as unexpected as it was meteoric. The band, comprising Agnetha Faltskog, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, Benny Andersson, and Bjorn Ulvaeu, quickly captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Their unique blend of voices and catchy tunes propelled them to fame. Despite initial skepticism, Abba’s 1976 hit “Mamma Mia” topped the charts, solidifying their status as music legends. Their success continued with their first UK concert at Birmingham Odeon in 1977, where tickets were in high demand.
The band faced personal turmoil in 1979 when couples within the group split, leading to emotional songs like “Winner Takes it All.” Despite the challenges, they continued to churn out hits and maintain their popularity. Abba’s final British TV interview in 1982 sparked rumors of a breakup, with members expressing the feeling that their journey had become less enjoyable. In 1982, Abba disbanded, marking the end of an era. More than 40 years later, their music still resonates with fans globally, reflecting on the enduring impact of their work.
In a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Abba’s legacy lives on through projects like the Abba Voyage Show, where digital versions of the band perform at the ABBA Arena near Stratford in East London. The recreated magic of Abba’s music continues to captivate audiences, maintaining the band’s relevance over the years. Band member Bjorn Ulvaeus acknowledges the unexpected and lasting success of their music, marveling at the wonderful mystery of its enduring appeal. The BBC show “When Abba Came to Britain” delves into the band’s journey, showcasing their evolution and the profound impact they had on the music industry and fans worldwide.
Abba’s music has transcended generations and genres, with fans like Primal Scream’s Bobbie Gillespie confessing to being an unexpected enthusiast of the band. The timeless quality of hits like “Dancing Queen” continues to resonate with listeners, embedding Abba’s music into cultural consciousness. From Eurovision glory to global stardom, the band’s journey is a testament to the power of music to connect people and endure through the ages. As their music lives on, Abba’s influence in the industry remains undiminished, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy. The band’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.
