Björn Ulvaeus Reveals the ABBA Hit He Wrote While ‘Intoxicated’ from Drinking Whiskey

Björn Ulvaeus Discloses the ABBA Classic He Penned While ‘Inebriated’ on Whiskey

In a recent interview with The Times, Björn Ulvaeus, a member of the iconic band ABBA, shared that the hit song “The Winner Takes It All” was actually written while he was under the influence of whiskey. This revelation sheds light on the creative process behind one of ABBA’s most beloved songs, which was crafted during Ulvaeus’s drinking days before he made the decision to quit alcohol in 2007. The 79-year-old artist recalled, “I wrote that song very quickly while drinking whisky during my drinking days.” He admitted that typically he avoided writing while intoxicated as the resulting words would often be deemed as “garbage”. However, Ulvaeus acknowledged that despite the circumstances, most of “The Winner Takes It All” turned out to be exceptional. He reflected, “It’s not a personal story, but I tried to find the detail of real human pain” within the lyrics.

The timeless track “The Winner Takes It All” was released as the lead single from ABBA’s Super Trouper album. It resonated with audiences globally, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and claiming the top spot in the U.K. The poignant lyrics, “The winner takes it all / The loser has to fall / It’s simple and it’s plain / Why should I complain?” are still cherished by fans today for their emotional depth and universal appeal. Despite the song’s creation in a moment of inebriation, it has endured as a testament to ABBA’s songwriting prowess and ability to capture authentic human emotions in their music.

Beyond their past successes, ABBA made a remarkable comeback with the release of their latest album, “Voyage”, in 2021. The group, consisting of Ulvaeus, Benny Anderson, Anni-Frid “Frida” Lyngstad, and Agnetha Fältskog, delighted fans with new music and embarked on a hologram residency titled ABBA Voyage in London. The residency, set to run until 2029 at the ABBA Arena, offers fans a chance to experience the magic of ABBA’s music through cutting-edge technology and live performances.

During his interview with The Times, Ulvaeus also contemplated the future of the ABBA Voyage residency, particularly in the event of a band member’s passing. He raised ethical questions about the continuation of the show posthumously and pondered whether it would be appropriate to carry on without the full ensemble. Ulvaeus’s musings on the longevity of the residency demonstrate his thoughtful approach to the band’s legacy and the impact of their music on generations to come. While uncertainties loom about the future, ABBA’s enduring influence in the music industry remains undisputed.

As ABBA continues to captivate audiences with their timeless hits and innovative projects, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the legendary band. Despite the passage of time, the magic of ABBA’s music endures, transcending generations and leaving an indelible mark on the world of pop music. Björn Ulvaeus’s candid revelations about the creation of “The Winner Takes It All” offer a glimpse into the band’s creative process and the emotional depth that defines their iconic sound. ABBA’s legacy as one of the greatest pop acts in music history remains secure, and their music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

By Jack Irvin

Jack Irvin is a seasoned journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. His work spans a variety of publications, including Rolling Stone, Entertainment Tonight, and PEOPLE. Jack’s passion for music and storytelling shines through in his coverage of artists and industry trends, making him a trusted voice in the world of entertainment news.