11 Underrated Abba Songs: Beyond the Hits

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado. Today, I’m super excited to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart – the underrated gems of ABBA.

We all know their mega-hits, but there’s so much more to this iconic group than “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia.” I’ve been spinning tracks for years and have developed a deep appreciation for the lesser-known tunes that deserve more spotlight.

So, I’ve curated a list of 11 ABBA songs that are often overlooked but absolutely deserve your attention. Whether you’re a DJ looking for fresh tracks or a music lover eager for new discoveries, this list is for you.

Let’s explore the hidden treasures of ABBA’s discography together!

Here are the underrated Abba songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Abba Songs

Underrated Abba songs in a list format:

1. Eagle (1977, Album: The Album, Label: Polar Music)

“Eagle” is a soaring masterpiece from ABBA’s 1977 album, “The Album,” released under Polar Music. This song is a testament to the group’s ability to blend poetic lyrics with a progressive rock sound, a departure from their usual pop style. The song’s authors, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, showcase their musical versatility here. “Eagle” metaphorically represents freedom and ambition, with its expansive melody and intricate harmonies. I chose this track for its adventurous spirit and the way it showcases ABBA’s willingness to experiment beyond their comfort zone. It’s a journey through sound that features the entire band, including the dynamic vocals of Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.

2. The Day Before You Came (1982, Album: The Singles: The First Ten Years, Label: Polar Music)

Released in 1982 as part of “The Singles: The First Ten Years” compilation, “The Day Before You Came” is one of ABBA’s most haunting tracks. Authored by Andersson and Ulvaeus, this song is a narrative masterpiece, detailing the mundane life of the narrator before a significant other’s arrival. Its melancholic tone and minimalist arrangement set it apart from ABBA’s more upbeat hits. I’m drawn to this song for its storytelling and the emotional depth it conveys, highlighting the group’s ability to evoke strong feelings through music. The subtle instrumentation, combined with the poignant vocals, creates a beautifully reflective atmosphere.

3. My Love, My Life (1976, Album: Arrival, Label: Polar Music)

From the 1976 album “Arrival,” “My Love, My Life” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases ABBA’s emotional depth. Written by Andersson, Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson, this song is a poignant reflection on love and loss. The tender piano accompaniment and the soulful vocals, primarily by Fältskog, make this track a standout. I included “My Love, My Life” for its raw emotional power and the way it highlights the group’s ability to craft deeply moving ballads. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love, making it a timeless piece in ABBA’s catalog.

4. Our Last Summer (1980, Album: Super Trouper, Label: Polar Music)

“Our Last Summer” from the 1980 album “Super Trouper” is a nostalgic look back at a youthful romance. Andersson and Ulvaeus capture the bittersweet memories of a past love with vivid imagery and a gentle melody. This song stands out for its storytelling and the evocative way it paints a picture of a fleeting, yet significant, moment in time. I chose it for its reflective nature and the universal theme of reminiscing about one’s youth. The harmonious blend of vocals and the understated instrumentation make “Our Last Summer” a subtle, yet powerful, track in ABBA’s repertoire.

5. Slipping Through My Fingers (1981, Album: The Visitors, Label: Polar Music)

“Slipping Through My Fingers,” from the 1981 album “The Visitors,” is a touching portrayal of a parent watching their child grow up too fast. Andersson and Ulvaeus wrote this song, inspired by the real-life experiences of watching their children grow. The song’s introspective lyrics, combined with a soft, melodic tune, create a deeply emotional experience. I included this song for its heartfelt message and the way it connects with listeners on a personal level. It’s a reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the precious moments we share with loved ones.

6. Soldiers (1981, Album: The Visitors, Label: Polar Music)

Another gem from “The Visitors,” “Soldiers” is a powerful commentary on the futility of war, set against an upbeat tempo. Andersson and Ulvaeus manage to blend a serious message with a catchy melody, making it a unique track in ABBA’s collection. The song’s contrasting themes of war and peace, combined with the group’s signature harmonies, make it an intriguing listen. I chose “Soldiers” for its thought-provoking lyrics and the way it showcases ABBA’s ability to tackle complex subjects in their music. It’s a song that resonates with its message of hope and peace.

7. I Wonder (Departure) (1977, Album: The Album, Label: Polar Music)

“I Wonder (Departure)” is a dramatic, theatrical piece from “The Album.” Written by Andersson, Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson, this song was initially part of a mini-musical called “The Girl with the Golden Hair” performed during their 1977 tour. Its live performance roots give it a grandiose feel, different from their studio tracks. I included it for its theatrical flair and the way it demonstrates ABBA’s versatility and ability to venture into different musical styles. The song’s narrative of self-discovery and the powerful vocal performance make it a standout track.

8. If It Wasn’t for the Nights (1979, Album: Voulez-Vous, Label: Polar Music)

From the 1979 album “Voulez-Vous,” “If It Wasn’t for the Nights” is a disco-infused track that explores themes of loneliness and longing. Andersson and Ulvaeus crafted a song that’s both upbeat in melody and deep in emotion. This juxtaposition makes it a fascinating listen. I chose this song for its infectious rhythm and the way it captures the essence of ABBA’s disco era, while also delving into more introspective territory. It’s a perfect example of how the group could create danceable tracks that also had depth and substance.

9. When All Is Said and Done (1981, Album: The Visitors, Label: Polar Music)

“When All Is Said and Done” from “The Visitors” is a reflective song about moving on from a relationship. Written during the time of Andersson and Lyngstad’s divorce, it carries an authenticity and emotional weight. The song’s mature approach to the theme of separation and resilience is both moving and empowering. I included it for its honest portrayal of ending relationships and the strength found in new beginnings. The combination of poignant lyrics and a strong, hopeful melody makes it a memorable and relatable track.

10. One Man, One Woman (1977, Album: The Album, Label: Polar Music)

“One Man, One Woman” from “The Album” is a tender portrayal of a relationship going through tough times. Andersson and Ulvaeus wrote this song, capturing the struggles and the enduring love in a long-term relationship. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics provide a contrast to ABBA’s more upbeat numbers. I chose this song for its relatable theme and the emotional depth it brings to the album. It’s a testament to ABBA’s ability to explore different facets of relationships in their music, making it a touching and meaningful song.

11. Like an Angel Passing Through My Room (1981, Album: The Visitors, Label: Polar Music)

“Like an Angel Passing Through My Room” is the hauntingly beautiful closing track of “The Visitors.” This minimalist song, penned by Andersson and Ulvaeus, is a departure from ABBA’s typical sound, featuring a simple melody and a lone synthesizer. Its ethereal quality and introspective lyrics create a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. I included this song for its simplicity and the profound sense of peace it evokes. It’s a fitting end to the album and a reminder of ABBA’s ability to create powerful music with the most basic of arrangements.

Fun Facts: Underrated Abba Songs

Eagle

• Fun Fact: “Eagle” was one of the longest songs ABBA ever recorded, with a duration of nearly six minutes. It was a bold move for a band known for their concise pop hits, showcasing their willingness to experiment with more progressive and elaborate musical forms.

The Day Before You Came

• Fun Fact: This song is often noted for its detailed storytelling, where every mundane activity is narrated with precision. Interestingly, it’s speculated to be one of the last songs ABBA recorded before their hiatus, adding a layer of poignancy as it reflects on the end of an era.

My Love, My Life

• Fun Fact: “My Love, My Life” was later featured in the film “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” where it was performed by Lily James and Meryl Streep. This brought the song renewed attention and appreciation, decades after its original release.

Our Last Summer

• Fun Fact: The song is autobiographical for Björn Ulvaeus, as it reflects on a summer romance he had in Paris when he was young. This personal connection adds depth to the lyrics, making it a nostalgic and heartfelt track.

Slipping Through My Fingers

• Fun Fact: This song was inspired by Björn Ulvaeus’ own experiences with his daughter, Linda. It’s a poignant reflection of a parent’s mixed emotions as they watch their child grow up, resonating with parents worldwide.

Soldiers

• Fun Fact: Despite its upbeat tempo, “Soldiers” carries a strong anti-war message. It’s a testament to ABBA’s ability to blend catchy music with serious and thought-provoking lyrics, a combination not often seen in pop music.

I Wonder (Departure)

• Fun Fact: “I Wonder (Departure)” was part of a mini-musical called “The Girl with the Golden Hair,” performed during ABBA’s 1977 concert tour. This theatrical origin gives the song a dramatic and narrative quality, different from their typical studio recordings.

If It Wasn’t for the Nights

• Fun Fact: This track was considered for release as a single but was ultimately passed over in favor of “Chiquitita.” Many fans and critics believe it could have been a significant hit, given its catchy disco vibe and emotional depth.

When All Is Said and Done

• Fun Fact: The song’s poignant lyrics gained extra weight as they mirrored the real-life divorce of band members Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. This added an authentic emotional layer to the song, making it a powerful piece in their discography.

One Man, One Woman

• Fun Fact: “One Man, One Woman” is known for its relatable portrayal of marital difficulties, a theme not commonly explored in pop music at the time. Its honest and sensitive approach to the subject matter has made it a fan favorite.

Like an Angel Passing Through My Room

• Fun Fact: This song stands out for its simplicity and was a significant departure from ABBA’s typical sound. Its minimalist approach, focusing on a single synthesizer and vocals, creates a haunting and serene atmosphere, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles.

And there you have it, music lovers! We’ve journeyed through the lesser-known yet equally mesmerizing world of ABBA. These 11 tracks prove that there’s so much more to this legendary group than their chart-toppers. Dive into these hidden gems and let the magic of ABBA’s deep cuts enchant you!

Thanks for reading.

TBone