The swedish band Abba was founded in the early seventies. The band consisted of the couple Frida Lyngstad and
Benny Anderson and the married couple Björn Ulvaeus and Agnetha Fältskog. They are regarded as one of the best groups of all time and are the most successful band after the beatles.
Early years
Abba was formed in the beginning of the seventies. The band name Abba is based on the first letter of the names of the four band members. In 1973 Abba participated in the Swedish precontest for the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Ring, Ring". They did not win the precontest, but the song became a hit in Europe. In 1974 they participate with an even catchier song "Waterloo". After winning the Swedish precontest they also won the Eurovision Song Contest final.
After Waterloo
Although winning the Eurovision was a big success, there was no sign that Abba wold become a super group. The singles after "Waterloo" became only modest hits. But in 1975 they score a big hit with the song "S.O.S.". This was the beginning of a huge success with songs like Dancing Queen and Money Money Money.
Late Seventies
There fame keeps growing an growing. They keep scoring number one hits all around the world. Big hits are the disco songs "Voulez-Vous" and "Gimme Gimme Gimme (A Man After Midnight)". But as there fame is growing, personal problems arise. The two couples seperate.
Last years
In the early eighties their music changed from happy disco to emotional ballads like "The Winner Takes It All" and "The Day Before You Came" reflecting the personal problems of the band members after the two couples seperated. In 1983 thet decide to take a break and this will be the end of the super group.
After Abba
Although the Abba has not released any new material after 1983 they still sell millions of CD's a year.
They are the most successful act of the seventies and one of the most successful bands of all times. Their timeless music is still often played in clubs and media.
In 1999 the musical "Mamma Mia!" starts. It is based on abba songs and it became a huge success and is shown all around the world in many different languages.
In 2004 they reject a 1 billion dollar offer for a reunion.
