Ranking all 109 ABBA Songs, from Worst to Best
I’ve been obsessed with ABBA for as long as I can remember —
I first remember hearing ABBA as a kid helping my mom clean, as she would often play their music while we worked. ABBA’s magical tunes instantly caught the attention of my young self, and the band hasn’t left my side since. They’ve been there for me through every moment: happy times, sad times, confusing times. The Swedish band’s pop music is, simply put, pure gold.
Being a self-declared “ABBA Mega-fan”, I finally decided to try to do the impossible: rank all of ABBA’s songs. This task proved difficult, because other than a few of their rough early pieces, nearly all of their songs are exceptional.
But, after many hard decisions and careful deliberation, I finally finished. For the sake of this list, I only used songs ABBA officially released in English. The following rankings are my own opinions (disclosure: I’m just a big ABBA fan, not a music expert. You’re welcome to disagree.)
Without further ado, here is every single ABBA song, ranked from the worst to the best. ❤
109. Man In The Middle
ABBA
“Man In the Middle”, a song about the rich and lazy ‘middle man’ who is “never bothered by his conscience”, has a clunky, generally unpleasant rhythm. On top of this, the Bjorn-heavy vocals never seem to blend well with funky odd tune. It could be compared as the ABBA-equivalent to the Beatles’ song “Baby You’re a Rich Man”.
For their absolute worst song, “Man In The Middle” could be a lot worse.
The good news is, it only gets better from here!
108. Merry-Go-Round
B-Side single
Just overall messy and bland, “Merry-Go-Round” isn’t memorable.
Listen, it’s not that Benny and Bjorn have bad voices, its just that Agnetha and Anni-Frida are real vocal magic of ABBA. You can’t help but wonder how many of these rough early pieces, such as “Merry-Go-Round”, would be massively improved if the girls had sang instead of the guys.
107. Medley: Pick A Bale Of Cotton
B-side single
“Medley: Pick a Bale Of Cotton” has a clunky rhythm and sharp, sour vocals which don’t work very well. The song actually transitions from “Medley: Pick A Bale of Cotton” to two other songs, “On Top of Smokey” and “Midnight Special”.
Hidden after the two disasters that precede in this track, ABBA’s cover of the “Midnight Special” is actually a wonderful bit. It’s a rocking, 80’s disco-like tune and a very catchy cover.
106. I Saw It In The Mirror
Ring, Ring
I like Agnetha’s voice during the song (“I never thought I could cry for you”). That’s about the only nice thing I can say.
105. Santa Rosa
B-side Single
“Santa Rosa” has a promising opening tune. For the first ten seconds, it sounds pleasant. Then the actual song starts…
Also, as a California native, of all the cities to write a song about, Santa Rosa?!
104. Suzy-Hang-Around
Waterloo
One of the few song with lead vocals by Benny alone, “Suzy-Hang-Around” never quite hits its mark. Also, poor Suzy.
103. She’s My Kind Of Girl
Ring, Ring
One of the oldest released ABBA songs, “She’s My Kind of Girl” has rough hints of ABBA’s emblematic melancholic tune, without developing that pop finesse needed to achieve ABBA greatness.
102. Disillusion
Ring, Ring
Accompanied by vague lyrics of heartbreak, “Disillusion” feels half-baked with its slow, half-hearted melody. Again, you can hear rough hints of ABBA’s quintessential melancholic sound, just without the accompanying pop elegance.
101. Rock ’N’ Roll Band
Ring, Ring
A generic title for a pretty generic song. As with many of their early tracks featuring Benny and Bjorn on the vocals, the only likable parts are where the Agnetha and Anni-Frida jump in (“Oh yeah, you’re gonna feel much better”).
Still, listen closely and you can hear hints of the key of ABBA’s success — their ‘call-and-response’ rhythm, where a series of notes is played, followed by a ‘responding’ series of notes which ‘answers’ the tune. This simple musical idea is what ABBA would later perfect to a magic.
100. Gonna Sing You My Love Song
Waterloo
The band was starting to catch their stride with their Waterloo album, but still had few rough tracks, like “Gonna Sing You My Love Song”.
Right around the start of the Waterloo album was when Benny and Anni-Firda first fell in love (Bjorn and Agnetha married before ABBA’s first album), evident by the number of love songs in their first albums.
99. My Mama Said
Waterloo
“My Mama Said” is an interesting tempo, but it fails evoke any significant emotion.
The genre range of ABBA is incredible, from the hints of jazz seen in “My Mama Said”, to country and folk, to classical, to rock, to pop, and everything in between.
98. I Can Be That Woman
Voyage
It’s about a dog! That’s cool! Other than that, “I Can Be That Woman” isn’t particularly memorable, a listless and drowsy beat accompanied by the sweet vocals of Agnetha.
97. Tropical Loveland
ABBA
Relaxed, lazy songs usually don’t fare well with ABBA, and “Tropical Loveland” is hardly an exception. “Tropical Loveland” has an easygoing, nonchalant tune that isn’t bad, it just isn’t ABBA. On the other side of the spectrum…
96. Lovers (Live A Little Longer)
Voulez-Vous
…songs with an extreme, almost aggressive energy don’t work with ABBA either. The power of Agnetha’s distinct dramatic voice can be heard in “Lovers (Live a Little Longer)”, but ABBA seems to have gone overboard with this one.
95. Little Things
Voyage
An ABBA Christmas song! Despite being quite slow and sleepy, “Little Things” is a pleasantly delicate and dainty tune.
94. Bumblebee
Voyage
“Bumblebee” instantly tells you it’s an ABBA song with its opening tune (it’s quite similar to “Arrival”, in particular), and beyond that has a peaceful marching tune. It’s quite poetic that ABBA’s new album produced after all this time went back to their original motif of songs about quirky or silly things (a dog, a bumblebee!)
93. Intermezzo №1
ABBA
A funky, classical tune without lyrics. But why is it named ‘№1’ if there is no ‘№2’?
92. King Kong Song
Waterloo
“King Kong Song” has an unusual, thumping rhythm to it. It’s evidence of ABBA’s experimentation during their early tracks more than anything.
91. Put On Your White Sombrero
Unreleased until 1994
What is “Put On Your White Sombrero” about? Is anyone sure? Nonetheless, “Put On Your White Sombrero” gives a glimpse of ABBA’s style of sweeping sentimental compositions, while still managing to be slightly obnoxious (do those background maracas ever stop?)
90. When You Danced With Me
Voyage
An Irish-jig of a tune, “When You Danced With Me” tells of someone reminiscing on the old memories with a friend who has left their hometown.
89. Me And Bobby And Bobby’s Brother
Ring, Ring
Where does ABBA think of these song lyrics? Who knows, but the chorus in “Me and Bobby And Bobby’s Brother” is actually quite fun and catchy, without much else.
88. No Doubt About It
Voyage
Opening with a country twang, “No Doubt About It” has a more energetic pace to it than most of the songs in ‘Voyage’. Anni-Frida rocks the vocals in this catchy tune about coming back to familiar love.
87. Sitting In The Palmtree
Waterloo
Already having explored rock, jazz, folk, classical, and pop music, now ABBA writes a reggae song. “Sitting in the Palmtree” has a quirky but pleasantly laid-back tune.
86. He Is Your Brother
Ring, Ring
A song of brotherhood and companionship, “He Is Your Brother” shines during the chorus through its rocking tune and backing chants. You can see more evidence of the answering rhythm and back-bouncing melody that would later make ABBA famous in the chorus of “He is Your Brother” (“treat him well he is your brother, brother; we depend on one another, another”).
85. Keep An Eye on Dan
Voyage
“Keep An Eye on Dan”, a song from the perspective of a divorcing lover telling the other parent to take care of their child, gives a glimpse into what ABBA could’ve achieved with modern electric pop technology in it chorus beat (after “So keep an eye on Dan”).
84. Arrival
Arrival
“Arrival”, named after the album (yes, not the other way around), is a larger-than-life sound, making you feel like you’re floating above the green, windy plateaus of Sweden.
83. What About Livingstone
Waterloo
The best pop song about a 19th century Scottish missionary. Besides just being a fun song, the chorus is incredibly catchy (“Tell me wasn’t in worth the while, traveling up the Nile”).
82. I Still Have Faith In You
Voyage
One of the two new songs released before the full album in 2021, “I Still Have Faith In You” contains that gentle nostalgia similar to that in “The Way Old Friends Do”, crescendoing into a chanting chorus.
81. Crazy World
B-side single
“Crazy World” tells the story of a lover going through a rollercoaster of emotions when he sees his girlfriend with another man. As always in these earlier ABBA songs which feature Benny and Bjorn, the best part is when Agnetha and Anni-Frida jump in on the backing vocal.
80. Elaine
B-side
A mysterious song with a repetitive synthetic rhythm, “Elaine” is a fast-paced pop tune with lots of vigor. But who is “gonna get” Elaine? And why are they bounding her feet and hands? Should someone call the police?
79. Hey Hey Helen
ABBA
A rocking tune which tells the story of a woman questioning her decision to leave her husband, “Hey Hey Helen” culminates in the likable chorus. Helen, don’t listen to them, you are better on your own.
78. People Need Love
Ring, Ring
The first song ABBA ever recorded together, “People Need Love” was meant to be one-time event for the four members of ABBA, until they realized they were actually pretty good at this whole music thing.
“People Need Love”, a cheery song of love, was a decent start for ABBA, generating them a bit of buzz.
77. Hole In Your Soul
ABBA: The Album
“Hole in Your Soul” is a loud, fast-paced number supported by some great harmonization. As in many of their early tracks, however, the vocals and guitar seem a little blurry and not quite sharp enough, a problem which would be fixed by an increase in ABBA’s production quality later on.
76. Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)
Ring, Ring
“Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” is a wonderful pop tune about the difficulties of maintaining a relationship with a great back-and-forth rhythm and dialogue.
75. I’m A Marionette
ABBA: The Album
About the pressures and realities of being a famous singer, “I’m A Marionette” is a fast-paced, striking song that makes you want to run.
74. Watch Out
Waterloo
ABBA has a great rock sound, and “Watch Out” is clearly evidence of that. The song has some amazing guitar work during the intro and vocal range during the refrain. “Watch Out” sounds less like an ABBA song and more like a song from an American classic rock band such as Aerosmith, but it still works.
73. Another Town, Another Train
Ring, Ring
One of the rarer cases where Benny’s voice works with the song, “Another Town, Another Train” is a bleak song about a man who has a habit of leaving those who love him. The song has an alluring tune with a playful sound and great vocal harmonization.
72. Ode to Freedom
Voyage
“Ode to Freedom” opens with a sweetly nostalgic classical melody. The graceful and balletic song blends the vocals with classical instruments in a uniquely beautiful way rarely (if ever) heard in pop. Bountifully sorrowful and bittersweetly hopeful, you can’t help but feel sad listening to the final track on ‘Voyage’. Is this the actual final ABBA song we’ll ever hear? Will there ever be more ABBA?
71. You Owe Me One
B-side single
Many songs written and recorded for the last album, The Visitors, (or after the album, in this case), were produced during ABBA’s turbulent relationship phase. By consequence, many have a uniquely dark but still marvelous pop sound.
It’s incredible the band still managed to produce such high quality tracks during their relationship troubles, but some songs, such as “You Owe Me One” give hints of the undoing of ABBA’s marriages.
“You Owe Me One”, despite having a modern pop sound and a catchy chorus, just seems to miss that mark of ABBA magic. Agnetha and Anni-Frida seem to be less enthusiastic when singing the upbeat vocals of “You Owe Me One”, and don’t quite reach that famous ABBA harmony.
70. Ring Ring
Ring, Ring
“Ring Ring” was one of ABBA’s first songs that really had that “ABBA sound”, with its bouncing chorus and its endearing ballad.
ABBA gained some attention with “Ring Ring”, entering it into the Eurovision Song Contest, but without success. (Don’t worry, they had better luck the next year.)
69. I Am Just A Girl
Ring, Ring
A hidden gem from the Ring, Ring album. Uniquely, “I Am Just A Girl” stands out thanks to its soft, whisper-like harmony that features all four ABBA members singing together.
68. Dum Dum Diddle
Arrival
“Dum Dum Diddle” is a clean and crisp song with solid rhythm about one-way unrequited love. The vocals match very well with the pitch, especially during the refrain (“But I think, you don’t know that I exist”).
67. Rock Me
ABBA
One of the band’s best early “rock-pop” songs, “Rock Me” delivers a classic rock ’n’ roll punch combined brilliantly with ABBA’s pop sound. Bjorn’s vocals work decently in the song, despite their grizzly countenance straining at some parts.
66. Don’t Shut Me Down
Voyage
The other of the two new songs released before the 2021 album, “Don’t Shut Me Down” proved ABBA still had it, even decades later. The disco tune is quite reminiscent of some of ABBA’s earlier hit dance tracks, such as “Voulez-Vous”, seen in the beat which builds up right before the chorus.
ABBA also didn’t the forget the ‘call-and-response’ beat which gives their tracks such as charm, heard during the line “I’m not the one you knew, I’m now and then combined”. And of course, Agnetha and Anni-Frida’s vocals and harmony are still incredible.
65. Should I Laugh Or Cry
B-side single
“Should I Laugh Or Cry” utilizes the strengths of both Agnetha and Anni-Frida’s vocals (with the latter taking the lead) over a gentle, lethargic tune. About the confusing emotions of an ending relationship, this song had to have struck a personal chord with the Anni-Frida and Benny, who were going through a painful breakup.
64. Two For The Price Of One
The Visitors
“Two For The Price Of One” is a throwback to ABBA’s early quirky and silly songs, but with the production quality, experience, and skill of their later albums. The song describes someone looking for love in the newspapers, concluding with a punchline and a jolly symphony.
“Two For The Price Of One” is a fun, enjoyable tune amidst the more serious songs of heartbreak in the Visitors album.
63. Nina, Pretty Ballerina
Ring, Ring
Another hidden Ring, Ring gem, “Nina, Pretty Ballerina” tells of an ordinary girl who has a little secret: she’s a dance star. The chorus surprises you with its charm and its dazzling, twinkly piano rhythm. Admit it, you want to be Nina.
62. Bang-A-Boomerang
ABBA
“Bang-A-Boomerang” has a fantastic whimsical energy and amicable beat. About the retuning of love again and again (like a boomerang), “Bang-A-Boomerang” is an example of ABBA’s transition into more well-produced songs with that typical ABBA sound.
61. Just A Notion
Voyage
Of all the tracks on the new Voyage album, “Just A Notion” works best (probably because it is a revamped version of a previously written track). “Just A Notion” has that familiar, bouncy ABBA beat that make you rock along to the beat. I particularly enjoy that “A-Ha-Ha” part.
60. I’ve Been Waiting For You
ABBA
A marvelous omni-changing hymn with an almost hypnotic aura, “I’ve Been Waiting For You” is about finally finding your love. ABBA clearly demonstrates the skill and experience they have developed with this tune, building a mesmerizing multi-layered romantic ballad, complete only with Agnetha’s dreamy voice.
59. The Piper
Super Trouper
“The Piper” opens with a mysterious medieval-sounding beat that’s achieved with flutes and chorals, transitioning into a jolly, marching baroque chant.
It’s occult and mystic lyrics tell of the seduction and entrancement of people by a dangerously powerful leader. Wonderfully ABBA.
58. Like An Angel Passing Through My Room
The Visitors
The last song on The Visitors album, “Like An Angel Passing Through My Room” begins with the ‘tick-tock’ sound which ended the previous track, “The Visitors”. It’s soothing vocals give the piece a lovely sorrowful feel, telling of past moments (“seeing long forgotten scenes”).
The last song on The Visitors album, “Like An Angel Passing Through My Room” has a maudlin emotion to it, like the end credits song of a sorrowful tragedy.
57. Soldiers
The Visitors
The drumming, the thumping beat, and the marching chorus all work incredibly well. Written about military decisions during the Cold War, “Soldiers” is another great example of the amazing musical development and skills ABBA gained by the time they released The Visitors album.
56. On And On And On
Super Trouper
A fantastic example of ABBA’s incredible ability to combine disco and rock. “On and On and On” tells of a person schmoozing amongst famous people, and its high-powered cadence is a joy to listen to.
55. One Man, One Woman
ABBA: The Album
“One Man, One Woman” has some great back vocals and guitar work throughout the song, especially in Anni-Frida’s vocals during the verses in “One Man, One Woman” are fantastic (“What’s wrong, what is happening?”). The complex, multi-faceted song seems to be one of the more touching insights into the relationship of Agnetha and Bjorn.
54. The Name Of The Game
ABBA: The Album
The first song from the ABBA Gold album appearing on this list, “The Name Of The Game” succeeds in its natural rhythm as it flows between each musical section. About the ‘games’ played in relationships, “The Name of the Game” is a more mature, dampened complex ABBA song.
53. So Long
ABBA
A high-energy song, “So Long” combines the best of ABBA’s rock ’n’ roll talent with their pop magic to form an energetic song with a great rhythm. It has that perfect bouncy, rock tempo thats just asking you to skip along.
52. Lovelight
B-side single
Just like its lyrics, which tell of the ‘lovelight’ glow one sees in romantic love, “Lovelight” has a magical energy and radiance. The song has that build-up of emotion and music that fills the beat with power, classic of ABBA.
51. I Wonder
ABBA: The Album
Anni-Frida’s powerful build up in the chorus (“If I don’t even try…”) is complemented beautifully by Agnetha’s backing hymn and the dynamic piano. “I Wonder” has that strength and vitality of a musical piece, especially in that chorus build up.
50. Eagle
ABBA: The Album
“Eagle” has ABBA’s distinct climbing vocals combined with a lofty, beautifully alien tune. The nearly six-minute song is renowned for its hypnotizing flow supported by an exotic instrumental background, complete with its mystical lyrics.
49. The King Has Lost His Crown
Voulez-Vous
One of best hidden gems from the Voulez-Vous album, “The King Has Lost His Crown” is a wonderful soft-spoken song. Anni-Frida’s soothing voice opens the song, telling the story of a bitter ex-lover, which transitions into the springy chorus.
48. Honey, Honey
Waterloo
An upbeat, cheerful song, “Honey, Honey” is the perfect example of an ABBA song some people might call ‘cheap bubblegum pop’. Besides this being a simplistic and inaccurate view (ABBA’s carefully crafted call-and-response melodies are masterfully written), who really cares? Whether or not it’s “bubblegum pop”, it’s still a terrific tune.
47. Cassandra
B-side single
“Cassandra” is about a priestess from Greek Mythology, Cassandra, who was blessed to have the power to see the future but cursed so that no one would ever believe her prophecies (“Pity Cassandra that no one believed you”).
In addition to its fascinating story and lyrics, “Cassandra” has a lovely metre and vocals which make it a delightful ballad, sung beautifully by Anni-Frida.
46. I Let The Music Speak
The Visitors
A hauntingly elegant number with a theatrical rhythm, “I Let The Music Speak” is characterized by eerie chords and an awesome, strange pattern.
45. My Love, My Life
Arrival
About losing love, “My Love, My Life” has a mournful and yet very sappy and saccharine theme, completed by the sorrowful guitar and Agnetha’s angelic voice in the chorus (“like an image passing by, my love, my life”). I listened to this one while driving off to college and it nearly broke me.
44. Happy Hawaii / Why Did It Have To Be Me?
Arrival
“Happy Hawaii” is actually the same song as “Why Did It Have To Be Me?”, just with different lyrics. I prefer the latter version.
“Why Did It Have To Be Me?” has a lovely rocking tune matched with Anni-Frida’s and Agnetha’s harmony during the verses. Something about the responding melody just before the chorus (just after the line “I couldn’t help it, it had to be you and I”) is so satisfying musically.
43. Dream World
Unreleased until 1994
Funny story — I met a girl at my university who was (almost) as big an ABBA fan as me. While discussing our favorite ABBA songs, I brought up “Dream World”. Incredibly, she had never heard of it! After doing some research, I discovered “Dream World” was released years after ABBA’s breakup, having never been released with an album.
Who knows why, as “Dream World” is a perfectly endearing ABBA song. One of ABBA’s most underrated — and unknown — songs, “Dream World” has an enchanting chorus with amazing harmony by Anni-Frida and Agnetha.
42. Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)
Waterloo
Talk about underrated! It’s easy to dismiss “Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)” as another one of ABBA’s early unsuccessful songs from their “learning period”, but that would be a disservice to this song.
“Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)” has a sweeping chorus that commands you to listen to the song title and dance. One of their best early songs which just didn’t gain traction for some reason.
41. That’s Me
Arrival
Probably the most hilariously self-deprecating song ever, “That’s Me” is about not feeling worthy of love or “worth the while”. Its bouncy, whimsical tune is accompanied by soft maracas in the background, giving it an amusing, memorable quality.
40. When I Kissed The Teacher
Arrival
A swinging pop tune about, well, having a crush on your geometry teacher. It has a great call-and-response melody, with its verses setting up the chorus, (“Gonna show him I care, gonna teach him a lesson alright”).
39. One Of Us
The Visitors
“One Of Us” is an alluring ballad bolstered by Agnetha’s lullaby. The song captures that sorrowfully indifferent, nothing-is-real feeling after a major loss. Just be careful listening to it after a romantic breakup, it may destroy you.
38. I Am The City
Unreleased until 1993
A terrific tempo which will stick in your brain with its recognizable, catchy chorus whose lyrics tells of the life and activity of a city (“I’m the street you walk, the language you talk”).
37. The Way Old Friends Do
Super Trouper
Something about the natural harmony of the whole group’s voices which slowly build to a powerful melody is enchanting. They’re live cover at Wembly Theater in London is particularity sappy, given the point in the band’s relationship and history.
36. Move On
ABBA: The Album
Bjorn’s gentle narration in the beginning is enchanting, and Agnetha’s soft voice transitions perfectly into the beautiful harmony. Its lyrics give some beautiful insights about life: everything moves on, no matter how hard things may seem.
35. As Good As New
Voulez-Vous
A stylish, politely English beat which sounds both modern and classic. Another song in which the build-up before the chorus is the most powerful part (listen to the beat during the lyrics, “And now, look at me standing here again”). “As Good As New” tells about the renewed feeling of love in a relationship, a poignant song for the band’s relationship at this point.
34. Me And I
Super Trouper
The relatable lyrics of “Me And I” (“Gloomy moods and inspiration, we’re a funny combination”) describe the many dark emotions inside one’s head. It’s swinging rhythm is delightfully catchy, composing a piece that’s wonderful to listen to over and over again. Plus, do you know any other pop songs that reference Sigmund Freud?
33. Our Last Summer
Super Trouper
A genial tune about the last innocent summer of a youth, “Our Last Summer” has an outstanding flow from beginning to end, helped along by an electric guitar solo three-quarters into the song. Anni-Frida’s mellow pitch during the chorus fits especially beautifully.
32. When All Is Said And Done
The Visitors
A flowing, calming song, “When All Is Said And Done” reassures you that, at the end of the day, everything will be fine. The song delivers this calming feeling of nostalgia through its musical resonance.
About the way one can reflect upon a relationship near its finality, “When All Is Said And Done” gives a hopeful perspective on the timely seperation of Benny and Anni-Frida.
31. Head Over Heels
The Visitors
Opening with a chirpy, spry tune, “Head Over Heels” maintains its playfulness as it tells about a girl with a “taste for the world”. It builds up with a marching, demanding cadence (“with no trace of hesitation she keeps going”) into the bold, spunky chorus.
Although maybe not as known as the same-named Tears for Fears song, “Head Over Heels” delivers an instantly recognizably, singable tune.
30. Andante, Andante
Super Trouper
A delicate lullaby, “Andante, Andante” will enchant you with its elegant strain, culminating in Anni-Frida’s graceful voice: (“Don’t let me down…”). Absolutely magnificent.
29. Does Your Mother Know
Voulez-Vous
“Does Your Mother Know” has a rocking bounce balanced exquisitely with its more restrained, graceful verses (“take it easy, better slow down girl”) sung in flawless harmony by Anni-Frida and Agnetha together, with Bjorn chipping in vocals.
“Does Your Mother Know” is, and will remain, an absolute club banger that is begging for you to jump and shake your body to.
28. SOS
ABBA
In a study done by Manchester’s Museum of Science and Industry, “SOS” was ranked the 5th most “recognizable” song of all time. It’s easy to see why with it’s catchy rhythm and simple lyrics.
Its lyrics telling of a partner who feels devoid of love and is begging for their partner to save them (“The love you gave me, nothing else can save me”), “SOS” was one of ABBA’s first foundational songs that set them up for their later success.
27. Slipping Through My Fingers
The Visitors
“Slipping Through My Fingers” is about someone letting go of their growing daughter, written by Bjorn after watching him and Agnetha’s daughter walk off to school. Its mournful theme is matched by its delicate, melancholic tune, which is in turned matched by a gentle guitar towards the song’s close. An absolutely exquisitely composed piece.
26. Thank You For The Music
ABBA: The Album
Thank you for the music, ABBA! A great song to sing along with, the lyrics recognize how important it is to be thankful for the good songs we’ve been given.
This song is an example of the peak of Agnetha’s and Anni-Frida’s harmony, and the power they had when their voice were combined. Plus Agnetha’s voice goes perfectly with that light, flowing opening.
25. The Day Before You Came
Unreleased until 1982
ABBA’s final recording, “The Day Before You Came” narrates the mundane, day-to-day activities on someone on the precipice of something very exciting.
Probably the best of all ABBA’s “despondent and gloomy” songs, “The Day Before You Came” captures that melancholic despair with its low repetitive beat, wistful hymn, and ghost-like sounds. There’s not a better song in world to listen to while looking out the window of a train on a rainy day (well, maybe “Another Town, Another Train”).
24. I Have A Dream
Voulez-Vous
One of ABBA’s best slow songs. The tranquil, calming melody and Anni-Frida’s soft vocals are simply beautiful together in “I Have A Dream”. The gentle background guitar strumming and children’s choir convey this otherworldly sense of peace. Close your eyes and let the musical serenity wash over you.
23. Chiquitita
Voulez-Vous
One of ABBA’s most complex and intricate songs, ABBA wrote “Chiquitita” near the peak of their career. Anni-Frida and Agnetha’s soft vocals pair perfectly with the gentle piano and guitar, which build into the compelling chorus.
“Chiquita” has grown on me over the years, from a somewhat endearing tune to one of the most beautiful hopefully pieces that can inspire even the most downtrodden of days. I especially like the piano at the end. Now try not to cry.
22. Happy New Year
Super Trouper
A sentimental number, “Happy New Year” utilizes the wistful side of Agatha and Anni-Frida’s voices to reflect on the ups and downs of life. The lyrics spur you to reminisce about the hardships and pain of the past (“the dreams we had before are all dead”) while looking into the future with stubborn optimism (“who can say what we’ll find”). We should replace “Auld Lang Syne” with this.
21. The Visitors
The Visitors
Among ABBA’s more serious songs, “The Visitors” is about the fear of the brutal policing in the U.S.S.R. during the 1980’s. It perfectly captures the panicked feeling of the time with its restless chorus, seemingly random spoken vocals, and fidgety melody.
The final album was, of course, named after the title track, and notice the album art referencing the song’s lyrics (“the books, the paintings, and the furniture”). “The Visitors”, the first song in the album, ends with the ‘tick-tock’ sound heard in the last album song “Like An Angel Passing Through My Room”, connecting the two songs.
20. Kisses Of Fire
Voulez-Vous
Some of the best ABBA songs have a combination of beautiful, softer verses coupled with pumped-up, rhythmic choruses, and “Kisses Of Fires” nails that. The song, which tells of romantic and sensual exploration, is one of those rare songs that makes you feel unstoppable.
19. Summer Night City
Super Trouper
A classic example of ABBA’s disco enchantment, Summer Night City sneaks up on you with its captivating melody, helped along by the narrative-like verses (“Can’t resist the strange attraction, from that giant dynamo”). It perfectly captures the certain excitement and thrill of a warm summer night in the city with its dramatic, pressing rhythm.
18. Under Attack
Unreleased until 1982
Often seen as the “farewell” song of ABBA, “Under Attack” was the last song ever released by the band before their long slumber. About someone who feels attacked by another’s advances, it captures you in its panicky and effervescent rhythm and winsome chorus. The perfect song for when you feel overwhelmed by life and other people. Look at them in the music video walking out, I’m trying not to cry.
17. Gimme, Gimme, Gimme!
Single, released 1979
An absolutely iconic disco beat and one of ABBA’s best dance club songs, “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme!” has an electrifying, energetic pulse to it that commands you to jump to the rhythm.
Agnetha and Anni-Frida’s harmony in the vocals work perfectly with the electronic sound, and it has this unforgettable and incredibly effective series of notes which Madonna would later sample in her hit “Hung Up”.
16. Hasta Mañana
Waterloo
A hidden gem from the Waterloo album, “Hasta Mañana” looks back with nostalgia. It perfectly captures a sentimental feel with its heaving, sappy melody and mushy vocals. Despite being about goodbyes, “Hasta Mañana” (meaning ‘See You Tomorrow’ in Spanish) looks to the future with hope, making it one of the most bittersweet songs ever written.
15. Money, Money, Money
Arrival
The bouncing, springy piano rift and the dramatic chorus gives “Money Money Money” a deserved spot in ABBA’s top 15. Its simple but well-written lyrics make this one perfect to sing along to and just have fun with. And the music video, with its random zooming and weird dancing, is just pure absurdity, I love it.
14. Voulez-Vous
Voulez-Vous
Another one of ABBA’s iconic “disco-club” tunes, “Voulez-Vous” is the perfect song for you to empty all your energy and all your emotion. With it’s swinging beat and rhythmic melody, “Voulez-Vous” takes control of you like few other songs.
Written about a risqué, high-energy club where people dance without holding back (“We’ve done it all before and now we’re back to get some more”), “Voulez-Vous” hypnotizes you with its glassy chorus transitions. Dance along and let the music unwind you.
13. Waterloo
Waterloo
“Waterloo” won ABBA the Eurovision song contest in 1974, launching the band to stardom. The opening rocking chords instantly suck into the tune, which, put together with the piano and saxophone, create an unforgettable beat. Simply put, “Waterloo” is an amazing song, both as a pop song and a rock song. And I suddenly feel a strange urge to invade Belgium.
12. Knowing Me, Knowing You
Arrival
The most mature break-up song ever written, “Knowing Me, Knowing You”, is about a couple splitting up when they recognize their differences. The bouncing tune fits perfectly with the lyrics, and the vocals match the classic call-and-answer ABBA signature. Anni-Frida’s vocal during the verses (“memories, good days, bad days”) is particularly enchanting.
When you’re feeling a bit disheartened, “Knowing Me, Knowing You” will always be there for you, helping you move on.
11. Super Trouper
Super Trouper
“Super Trouper” has a cheery, marching beat that leaves you feeling hopeful and tenacious, while simultaneously hiding quite despairing lyrics. In classic ABBA style, despite being a very happy-sounding song, the song is actually about someone who feels lonely even though they’re in a large crowd.
Its back-and-forth melody and typical ABBA call-and-response tune make “Super Trouper” insanely catchy. The perfect song for when you feel lonely, “Super Trouper” will instantly make you feel a bit better and a little less down.
10. Tiger
Arrival
“Tiger” is one of ABBA’s best-hidden gems. It opens with stark, dramatic piano chords which lead into the booming chorus lead by Agnetha and Anni-Frida’s stunning voices, evoking tension and excitement. The lyrics suggest the song is about dangers of the city, perhaps about a serial killer.
Every aspect of the song just works. I want to drive my car around at night with the windows down blasting this song.
9. I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do
ABBA
This song is a musical marvel. It begins with some cheery saxophones, which moves into the light vocals that pair perfectly with the descending chords.
“I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do” evokes emotions of spectacle and excitement. It gives the listener a sense of lightness and cheer, lifting them off the ground, above the world. Muriel in Muriel’s Wedding gets it.
8. The Winner Takes It All
Super Trouper
One of ABBA’s most well-known songs, and for good reason. The ascending and descending beat with the dramatic piano chords and Agnetha’s outstanding voice create one of the most powerful songs ever written.
The way the song builds up, chorus by chorus and verse by verse, culminating in Agnetha’s glamorously robust voice, is indescribable. Few ABBA songs, or songs in general, have the power to evoke emotions like this song.
7. Fernando
Single, released 1976
A masterpiece of pop about the friendship and comradery between two soldiers in the Mexican Revolution, the soft vocals in the beginning of “Fernando” pair beautifully with the delicate beat, which transition into the dazzling chorus. Nothing quite evokes feelings of nostalgia and the reflection of past memories like “Fernando”.
There is a sentimental side to “Fernando”, capturing the ability of music to move you across time and place. Sometimes, you just need to lay down, look up at the stars, and listen to this one.
6. If It Wasn’t For The Nights
Voulez-Vous
The highest ranked song which didn’t make it onto either ABBA Gold or More ABBA Gold, if you’re wondering why “If It Wasn’t For the Nights” made it this far up the rankings, you surely haven’t listened to it. The song, which is about keeping busy to avoid thinking about painful thoughts, was written by Bjorn, from his experiences.
“If It Wasn’t For The Nights” has an almost train-like rhythm and a joyful chorus. Something about it is very uplifting, despite being about a difficult problem we all struggle with. No matter what, this song will always make you happy.
5. Lay All Your Love On Me
Super Trouper
Instantly, the deep booming chords draw you into “Lay All Your Love On Me”, creating a feeling of power and turmoil. This leads into the chorus made up of long, vigorous cords with sensational vocals.
“Lay All Your Love On Me” is an incredibly thematic song that has this unique, indescribable quality. Something about “Lay All Your Love On Me” is so brilliantly melodramatic, so powerfully tragic, suspenseful, and emotional, that you can not help but be swept up in its powerful rhythm.
4. Mamma Mia
ABBA
If I had to pick one song to represent ABBA, I think I would pick “Mamma Mia”. It’s a happy-sounding song, disguising the quite dark lyrics that tell the story of a girl who keeps going back to a partner who makes her unhappy. The song is so associated with the band they named the movie after it.
“Mamma Mia” will get immediately stuck in your head, but you don’t mind because it’s such a great song. The piano tune is pure bliss, and the vocals are outstanding. Try listening to it and not singing along or at least tapping your foot to the beat.
3. Angel Eyes
Voulez-Vous
Probably ABBA’s most underrated song ever. It’s the fourth highest-ranked, and it didn’t even make it onto ABBA Gold. From the moment you press play on this song, you are caught in its melody. The first verse (“last night, I was taking a walk along the river”) engulfs you into the rhythm of the song and its dramatic tune.
I really wish more people knew about this song, everyone needs to give it a try. “Angel Eyes” is a pure musical magic.
2. Dancing Queen
Arrival
We’ve finally arrived at ABBA’s most popular song, the only ABBA song most people who aren’t fans know about. From the moment this song begins, you are swept up by its joyous harmony.
ABBA claims they rarely knew if their songs were going to be a hit or flop, with the exception of “Dancing Queen”, which they knew would succeed. Anni-Frida reportedly cried when she first heard the song. “Dancing Queen” is simply happiness in a song. There is a reason you hear it everywhere.
1. Take A Chance On Me
ABBA: The Album
No song is perfect, admittedly. That is, except for “Take A Chance On Me”. Its energetic chorus is happy and light, full of pure joy. Agnetha’s soft, harmonic voice during the verses (“we can go dancing, we can go walking”) work beautifully. The lyrics are memorable and focused.
Every time I’ve felt down, “Take A Chance On Me” has been there to pick me up. No matter how many times I listen to this song, I still jump up and dance when I hear it. If only life could be as joyous as this song.
Special thanks to:
Ian Cole, for his work on abbaomnibus.net and other literature
Carl Magnus Palm, for his work and literature on ABBA
