S.O.S, Knowing Me Knowing You, Chiquitita, The Winner Takes It All, Dancing Queen, Money Money Money, The Name of the Game, Angel Eyes, Take a Chance On Me, Fernando, Super Trouper, The Piper,Does Your Mother Know, Gimme Gimme Gimme. So many great Abba songs.
Amber picked up on a characteristic of many ABBA songs, and that is while the melody and tempo may be upbeat, the lyrics are often on the melancholy side. This contrast is a big part of the appeal of their songs, some of which can be emotionally powerful if you really pay attention to the lyrics. A good example of this is their song "Slipping through My Fingers"
Someone told me once that the reason he didn't like ABBA was that he liked "serious" music and they were too cheerful. He specifically mentioned this song. I replied "You know the first line of that song is "I've been cheated by you since I don't know when" Right?" He changed the subject.
@@pestergaines yes, I would really like to see Amber's reaction to this.... 😭 I am ashamed to say that I didn't even know the song until I heard it in 'Mama Mia, the Movie' (watching in a cinema with my daughter at the time, who was just starting uni 😭) and, even now, it 'gets me' every time...
There's nothing like "Knowing Me, Knowing You" - may have been one of their last singles, as the married couple was divorcing - where the music wasn't so happy any more, and you just get the lyrics of someone going through a divorce.
One could almost pick any ABBA song, it'd be a good candidate for best pop song ever that's the neat thing about them how virtually any song from their albums could've been a single and a hit, that's how good the material was. "Mamma Mia" to me, is definitely one of the best most catchy pop songs ever I have it up there in a Top 5 with songs like "Magic" by Olivia Newton-John, Bee Gees' "How Deep is Your Love" or Cliff Richard's "We Don't Talk Anymore".
While it's hard not to focus on the ladies and their stunningly perfect vocals, gotta credit the guys for composing and arranging such irresistible and unforgettable songs. Usually in that little cabin in the woods where they worked. And yeah, a lot of upbeat ABBA songs actually have pretty melancholy lyrics.
That's my beef with our lovely hosts. They continue branding ABBA a female band. Thanks for your comment. And no, not the musical of the same name. It totally destroyed so many wonderful ABBA songs. I know, it was not your recommendation. Just saying.
They sure came up with many basic melodies and ideas in that little cabin (on their Stockholm arcipelago island), but most of the work on the songs were done in a studio in town, not in the woods :D
ABBA were far ahead of their time with the layering of voices and coming with a fresh new sound. They were unique. I was lucky enough to see them live in the end of the 70's back home in Sweden. Nothing I have ever seen since can come even close to that experience.
Mamma Mia is a great example of ABBA's irresistible melodies, amazing arrangements, and incredible harmonies. You may want to watch the movie "Mamma Mia!" a musical starring Meryl Streep which uses ABBA's hits as it's soundtrack for one of your movie reactions. Thanks for the great video!
I have listened to this song over a thousand times, went to eggs to see the stage show, then I’ve seen both movies! The Movie surprisingly is so much like the stage play. Because the way the stage was set up it conjured in you’re mind EXACTLY the place they used in the movie!!! You really need to see it. Sorry they completed the run of Mama Mia the play. It was fantastic, and played to a packed house with me watching the LAST SHOW in Vegas 2 seats shy of Front row center!!! I was sick as a dog when I went, but for 2 hrs roughly I wasn’t sick at all!! I was so caught up in what was going on on stage I got to forget I was sick!!! It was FABULOUS!!! You really need to see the movie!!!
No. Don't watch the movie. They change so much about the songs. Just my thoughts. I would advise watching "ABBA - the movie" the documentary/concert tour centred around their Australian tour in the '70s.
The "Mamma Mia" movie was awful, imo. The music was downright painful, the plot was overly contrived, and the acting was often cringeworthy. I've loved ABBA my whole life and liked most of the cast before watching the movie. I had no bias to dislike it. It was just that bad.
Benny (the piano player) is an absolute, one of a kind wizard when it comes to arrangements. Björn, the guitar player, is a miracle worker when it comes to lyrics. Together with the ladies they made magic. Many of their uptempo cheerfull songs have actually very dark lyrics. Try day before you came. Spine chilling, and a complete other side of Abba
That would definitely be a movie they should react to.... the second movie was, to me anyway, a bit disappointing but hey, it's still got ABBA songs in it so it's still good.
@@patticrichton1135 that's cool. I just thought it was a bit... I don't know... forced feeling. But, to each their own opinion. Not that I didn't like it, it just didn't measure up to the first. Happens with sequels sometimes.
Glad you're feeling better Jay! Thanks for taking one for the team! Five ABBA songs in, and you've got so many more greats to go. You'll love "Fernando", "Take a Chance On Me", "I Have a Dream", "When All Is Said and Done", "Super Trouper", and, of course, "Dancing Queen" (the ULTIMATE roller sking rink song). Have you memorized their names yet? Agnietha (ag-NYET-a) (the blonde), Anna-Frid (the brunette), Benny (with the beard) and Bjorn (without the beard).
"Mamma mia" is an Italian expression of shock of realization or disbelief 😲😲It means "mother mine" but it falls in the same category as "Dear God!" ... "My word!"... "Jesus Christ!" ... "Oh Lord!" In Spanish, there is the similar expression - "Madre de dios!" (Mother of god!) This is Abba's early international hit... It became the title of a Broadway play... and then a musical movie.
Summer Night City is an AMAZING Abba song. It's my top fave. But I also love Does Your Mother Know, Name of the Game, Voulez Vous, Under Attack, and Waterloo. ALL worth a listen.
I'm always surprised to hear Jay and Amber say they always forget the guys when they're listening to ABBA! The guys are the writers, composers, instrumentalists, and of course an integral part of those amazing 4 part harmonies. WIthout the guys...the girls would have great voices yes, but may have never reached noteriety without them.
I've been a fan from the beginning. What I find very intresting is the fact that ABBA very often combine "sad" lyrics with happy music - exactly what you described too!
Agreed!! Fabulous movie! I also saw the musical in New Orleans a few years ago. My daughter got us tickets for Christmas that year. BEST present ever!! You would love it.
Wow Amber! ABBA are my favorite band of all time. I was in elementary school when I heard SOS and from that point right up to today there is no other band or solo artist whose music I have continuously listened to and have never tired of. So, Amber, I was impressed at your spot on recognition of how no other band can present dark and negative emotional subject matter in the lyrics, yet, they present it in a high energy, melodic, flawlessly produced record you want to just move to, and then the incredible voices in the tightest harmonies that the vocals soar even that much more. It took me years of listening before I really started appreciating just how difficult that is, not to mention that much of it was what was actually going on the lives of the two couples that made up ABBA at that time. And Jay, well, I totally agree 100% with what you said you loved about the song, those keyboards, the marimba (which you thought was a xylophone, which I agree, it does sound like it). Your focus on the instrumental portion of the song is exactly what gets me with ABBA in this track.The tension that the marimba creates during the song is unique to anything I’ve ever heard and I haven’t heard anything close to that since. But, amazingly, it doesn’t sound dated because of how well written, arranged and most importantly, the meticulous studio production techniques. So, both you guys got ABBA and in the two ways which they were genius, the ability to write the catchiest yet most intelligent pop music and be able to convey deep and personal subject matter in a bright and energetic sound. Hope you guys get to more ABBA and sooner than later while you are still fresh off this brilliant song because there are many, many other ABBA songs which hit the same way, bright pop music with surprisingly dark and personal subject matter. “Knowing Me, Knowing You” would be a great next ABBA reaction.
I was a small child when this song came out, but my teen sisters love this song and would always be dancing to it! I never knew that this song was about a toxic relationship until now. The up-tempo beat was just so danceable and made you feel happy it's hard to pay attention to the words especially when you're a child.
Well now... I remember when these guys came out. They caused a world-wide sensation. There are a couple of movies based on this song a few decades later. If you haven't heard Waterloo yet, suggest you do. It is possibly their most famous song. My favourite, Fernando. heart lol
@@larsnilsson6821 Perhaps because it was played too often at the time. But the movie and stage show have increased exposure for Mama Mia and brought a whole new generation of fans. So quite an important song for them.
A band and a song so infectious they not only made two movies called “Mama Mia” and “Mama Mia 2,” they also created a Broadway musical out of it-all of which are great. Of course you have to know all of their songs first to enjoy it, but you’re getting there. An absolute must is “Dancing Queen”! Great pick!
Love this song! Works very well in the movies, "Muriel's Wedding" and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert". Great movies to watch as well.
Thanks for the heads up. I love the movie "Muriel's Wedding" and recall "Dancing Queen" in it, but not "Mama Mia". I'll have to go back and watch it again. Lol
If you have the chance, Mama Mia was an extremely entertaining Broadway and touring show featuring the music of ABBA. Absolutely delightful! (Better than the movies!)
It was monumentally better than the movie! It took me being dragged to NYC to see it on Broadway for me to actually realize, despite having heard them since the 70’s, just how good ABBA was! And the musical was great beyond description for me.
@@scottfarley3644 You don’t have to worry. Mama Mia! is now a former Broadway and former Broadway Across America show. You couldn’t Catch it if you wanted to.
You are right about the xylophone/marima. They usually used at least two layers of sound on each "instrument". That's why they brought an extra pianist, two extra guitarists, and two drummers/percussionists on stage, when they played live. Plus reeds and flutes and a small three piece choir. Sometimes violines as well
this was a *HUGE* number one hit in Australia it made its chart debut on 13th October 1975 on the Australian top 20 at number 11 (a bullet performer) it jumped three places and knocked their previous hit I D0,I Do,I Do,I Do,I Do out of the number one positon it went to number one on 3rd of November that year it was number one for ten weeks that was replaced again with another follow up of theirs with SOS
ABBA is such a great group. I love this song, one of their big hits. I would like to suggest again a less known song of ABBA. After hearing and watching the video...I love "HONEY, HONEY"...It's a live performance and they are wearing futuristic outfits...Great Instrumental song as usual!!!
Most people are unaware that, for their entire North American tour, they never wore the same costume twice. Sadly I lived in a little town in the middle of nowhere with no means of getting to go see them live. I would have given pretty much anything at the time. I STILL have a bit of a crush on Frida
I didn't think anyone could possibly have not heard of Mama Mia. There was a Broadway Play by that name with 20 ABBA songs (which I saw on Broadway) and the 2 movies. Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Amanda Siefried, were among the stars in the first movie. Cher had a role in the 2nd. It also became popular for flash mob performances. This is iconic. I would add that there are videos all over UA-cam of high school music departments performing the stage production.
There isn't a bad Abba song - there are only good songs and great songs. Absolute legends these guys... and don't forget Gimme Gimme Gimme - another mega-hit
That unique instrument you're hearing is a marimba, a percussion instrument kind of like a xylophone. It has wooden bars struck by mallets. The keyboardist, Benny Anderson, added it to the song at the last minute. I think "Dancing Queen" is my favorite ABBA song. I was in my first year of college when it was released in 1976.
Abba is still a group I listen to all the time . Great choice today Amber. She is singing about a lost romantic heart ache but she getting into another relationship so she is talking about oh Mamma Mia (means fear ) of getting into the relationship and falling in love.
Actually Amber was right. The singer is talking about a relationship she shouldn't be in (example, she's been cheated by him since "I don't know when"). It's volatile, she's told him they're through and as he leaves he slams the door, but...they both know that he "won't be away too long" and that she will take him back because she's "not that strong". I mean, the chorus confirms it, as she asks "How can I resist you?" and "why did I ever let you go?" before stating "I could never let you go". And yeah, it only takes a couple of "looks" from him in order for her to "forget everything" (how he treated her). Sounds like a toxic relationship to me.
@@michelemercier2286 😀 I had suspected that you might have responded to me in error. But I wasn't sure. So, I thought I'd reiterate my comment just so you'd know for sure.😺💞🍀
On the surface the music and singing sounds so effortless and even simple. But there's a reason why so few people have tried to cover those super hits.
Interesting fact: this song knocked "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen off the number one spot in the UK in early 1976. And Freddie actually says "Mamma Mia" in the lyrics of "Bohemian Rhapsody" 😊 Much love from England 🏴
The piano is a string instrument, and the clips you see witch might remind you of a xylophone, is just the internals of the piano working. And you absolutely can make a some pianos sound like a xylophone.
The song that started it all for them in Australia :) Interestingly, ABBA were not going to release this song as a single but after much pressure from the Australian public, Molly Meldrum (host of Countdown music program who first showed this clip) & RCA (Australian record company) they finally gave in. The rest, as they say, is history :)
Probably my favourite song by Abba. Just so upbeat even if the lyrics don't represent it. Way to go Jordan. You are a trooper. Feel well my friend. 👍👍 Loved your reactions. Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️❤️ 🇨🇦🇨🇦
These are a few songs that were playing when I went in the Navy. In the Navy by Village People, Reunited by Peaches and Herb, turn out the lights by Teddy Pendergast. Others are I will survive by Gloria gaynor. Without you by Harry Nilsson. If you like a story song, play the night the lights went out in Geogia by Vicki Lawrence.
ABBA had so many absolutely great songs. They were unstoppable in the '70s, and they are always part of my earliest musical memories. How can anyone not love them? So cool that they're back again. ❤️👍😎🤘
Over the course of 10 years - 1972 with "People Need Love" (before they were known as Abba they were known as just their full names (very wordy!) until they just used their initials) to 1982 with "Under Attack" the sheer number of incredible songs that they released is staggering. (They did also have a few awful ones as well!). In that 10 years they went from folk rock, to glam rock, to pure pop, disco, ballad, stage musicals style and even instrumentals. We didn't get to know them until 1974 when they won the Eurovision Song Contest and then we thought they were just a one hit wonder...it wasn't until a over a whole year later that we took notice of them again with the incredible "S.O.S." From then until 1981 they were a constant presence in the UK charts. Looking back it is hard to appreciate the sheer explosion of fantastic music that we lived through compared to today. So many fresh and new sounds. Of course the promo films you are watching of them were parodied relentlessly - and then the parodies became homages. Do try to react to the Australian films "Muriels Wedding" and "Priscilla: Queen of the Desert" which reference Abba to good effect.
I love ABBA 😍❤️ So many great songs... Move on, nina pretty ballerinas, ring ring, Fernando, chiquitta, I have a dream, Waterloo, Super trooper, etc etc etc etc ❤️👍🇬🇧
❤️ Great reaction Jay & Amber! ❤️🎶😎 More ABBA you need to check out next: "Waterloo" (their first single and winning entry in the 1974 EuroVision contest), "Dancing Queen", "Knowing Me, Knowing You", "Does Your Mother Know", "S.O.S.", "Take A Chance On Me", and "The Name of The Game"
If you wanna hear the male lead vocals of ABBA (in this case guitar man Björn) you should check out their 'Does Your Mother Know', you won't regret it...and btw. Amber looks great in her Rolling Stones Shirt ...
The movie mama Mia f2esturing abba songs was first one of the longest running shows in London theaters. I got to see it once and man was the crowd engaged and singing along with many of the great songs.
I saw ABBA at their 1st Concert in North America, Sept 13 1979 in Edmonton Alberta Canada. Their Music is some of the best written/composed/played songs ever created
❤️ I love ABBA. Some of my faves are When All Is Said and Done, Our Last Summer, If It Wasn't for the Nights, The Visitors, Fernando ... + a gazillion others :) Also, I would love you guys EVEN MORE if you reacted to Natalie Merchant - she's incredibly overlooked among reactors. Wonder, River, Belowed Wife, Jealousy, Ophelia, Life is Sweet, Kind and Generous, My Skin, Break Yor Heart, Ladybird, Giving Up Everything ... so many good ones.
"Mamma Mía" (1975) for me is the best pure pop If someone ask me for what is a pop song, i give them this video and this song "Mamma Mía" have all elements: catchy melodies, more hooks, beauty voices and harmonies, it's funny , It's an excellent pop song and in my Top 20 of all ABBA songs This is an iconic video for which in Australia they asked that "Mamma Mía" be released as a single They did it in 1975 and it was #1 in Australia for 10 weeks and ABBAmania woke up there When the single was released in England it had a slow but steady rise to #1 and from there toppling none other than 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen in January 31, 1976 Curiosly both songs have the same phrase: Mama Mía, let me go (Queen) Mamma Mía, here I go again (ABBA) "Mamma Mia" together with their predecessor "S.O.S." are the two songs that gave ABBA its musical identity as a pop group With both songs began ABBA's great series of more than 20 worldwide hits for six consecutive years 1975/1982 included: Fernando Dancing Queen Chiquitita The winner takes it all Super Trouper I think that at these point in Your reactions it's esentialy to see the first worldwide ABBA hit, and in it's context: "Waterloo" at Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton UK 1974, the night when ABBA schock the world these is the live perfomance: ua-cam.com/video/3FsVeMz1F5c/v-deo.html these is an historic moment in músic I hope to see you in another reaction to ABBA songs My best regards from Buenos Aires Argentina
I was a junior (Elementary) school kid when ABBA exploded in the UK (in the late 70's). I have no embarrassment in saying I was a huge fan. Still am! Take a Chance on Me, SOS and Chiquitita are probably my favourites but there are so many.
I 🧡 ABBA! Love this song still! Congratulation to Amber for picking up on the lyrics of the song even the tempo is upbeat. It works well that way sometimes with many songs out there even nowadays! You all need to hear more ABBA and their lyrics! Enjoyed your reaction! ☮💕👍👏
This one of the most famous song of Abba with dancing Queen, and been the Title of the very famous movie of "Mamma mia", base on the songs of Abba, but been in the Title make dice more recognizable
Damn son! I just had a flashback to the '70's when I was 6-7yr old kid watcing an old NZ tv music show called RTR (ready to roll). It was great then and is still great now.
Abba were massive in the 70's and early 80's in almost every country in the world...except the US (who only seem to know "Dancing Queen", at least until the Mamma Mia musical and films came out!). I loved Abba, even when they were seriously uncool here in the UK (mid-80's to late 90's) and they are the only artists that I could make a 40-track compilation of their best work and each track would be superb (not even the Beatles can manage that in my books). Abba remain the finest pop group ever created and the CD album of "Voulez Vous" (which has stunning bonus tracks) is easily the best pop album released in the history of music (IMHO of course).
Abba was definitely known for more than just that song here in the USA, too -- they had 14 Top-40 hits here between 1974 and 1981, after all, and 4 of those made it to the Top 10 ("Waterloo", "Dancing Queen", "Take A Chance On Me", and "The Winner Takes It All"). I think they're one of those bands where everyone knows the *songs* , but for some strange reason people don't seem to remember the actual *name* of the song or the band that did it. Go figure. :-)
S.O.S, Knowing Me Knowing You, Chiquitita, The Winner Takes It All, Dancing Queen, Money Money Money, The Name of the Game, Angel Eyes, Take a Chance On Me, Fernando, Super Trouper, The Piper,Does Your Mother Know, Gimme Gimme Gimme. So many great Abba songs.
The “gentlemen” in the group don’t just play their instruments. They are the powerhouse in ABBA. Musical geniuses.
@Willow B They were the geniouses who wrote all of their songs. Benny & Bjorn
The guys' vocals contributions are often ignored
Indeed, for they writing all off the ABBA songs
@Willow B I guess the fact they are both multi-millionaires takes the edge off the lack of recognition.
listen to "Does Your Mother Know". The guys do the singing in that one.
Amber picked up on a characteristic of many ABBA songs, and that is while the melody and tempo may be upbeat, the lyrics are often on the melancholy side. This contrast is a big part of the appeal of their songs, some of which can be emotionally powerful if you really pay attention to the lyrics. A good example of this is their song "Slipping through My Fingers"
Someone told me once that the reason he didn't like ABBA was that he liked "serious" music and they were too cheerful. He specifically mentioned this song. I replied "You know the first line of that song is "I've been cheated by you since I don't know when" Right?" He changed the subject.
Yes! Like the singer Lily Allen. She does the same thing.
"Slipping through my fingers" is one that all parents can appreciate!
@@pestergaines yes, I would really like to see Amber's reaction to this.... 😭 I am ashamed to say that I didn't even know the song until I heard it in 'Mama Mia, the Movie' (watching in a cinema with my daughter at the time, who was just starting uni 😭) and, even now, it 'gets me' every time...
There's nothing like "Knowing Me, Knowing You" - may have been one of their last singles, as the married couple was divorcing - where the music wasn't so happy any more, and you just get the lyrics of someone going through a divorce.
Dancing Queen is probably one of their biggest songs. Well worth a listen.
Rob's one unique attribute is that he pauses a good song precisely at the wrong time. Time after time.
Dancing Queen has often been described by musicians, critics and producers as "The Most Perfect Pop Song Ever Recorded." Check it out.
One could almost pick any ABBA song, it'd be a good candidate for best pop song ever that's the neat thing about them how virtually any song from their albums could've been a single and a hit, that's how good the material was. "Mamma Mia" to me, is definitely one of the best most catchy pop songs ever I have it up there in a Top 5 with songs like "Magic" by Olivia Newton-John, Bee Gees' "How Deep is Your Love" or Cliff Richard's "We Don't Talk Anymore".
I though that was "S O S".
@@herrbonk3635 No.. It's Dancing Queen !🔥👠💄💃💃💃
@@christinahansen9952 Yes, Christina. Dancing Queen every time!
While it's hard not to focus on the ladies and their stunningly perfect vocals, gotta credit the guys for composing and arranging such irresistible and unforgettable songs. Usually in that little cabin in the woods where they worked.
And yeah, a lot of upbeat ABBA songs actually have pretty melancholy lyrics.
You should watch the movie by the same name as the song.
That's my beef with our lovely hosts. They continue branding ABBA a female band. Thanks for your comment. And no, not the musical of the same name. It totally destroyed so many wonderful ABBA songs. I know, it was not your recommendation. Just saying.
To follow up, without Bjorn and Benny ABBA would not exist as we know it.
Yeah the ladies kind of had the interesting relationship with the guys in the band which was very unpleasant for them I don’t remember the details…
They sure came up with many basic melodies and ideas in that little cabin (on their Stockholm arcipelago island), but most of the work on the songs were done in a studio in town, not in the woods :D
Just smile and enjoy some of the lushest music of all time. The classics have inspired so much of ABBA music.
J & Amber, their "Dancing Queen", "Waterloo" and "Fernando" are next for you!! edit- These were huge hits!
They did dancing queen
@@special420player pls post a link to it
@@surlechapeau I don't see it either, it may have been removed? ua-cam.com/users/RobSquadReactionssearch?query=abba
S.O.S is another major hit for them!
I love "Waterloo"---and Cher took "Fernando" to a whole 'nother level!!
ABBA were far ahead of their time with the layering of voices and coming with a fresh new sound. They were unique. I was lucky enough to see them live in the end of the 70's back home in Sweden. Nothing I have ever seen since can come even close to that experience.
Mamma Mia is a great example of ABBA's irresistible melodies, amazing arrangements, and incredible harmonies. You may want to watch the movie "Mamma Mia!" a musical starring Meryl Streep which uses ABBA's hits as it's soundtrack for one of your movie reactions. Thanks for the great video!
yes they really do. i think in the movie it kind of tells and shows the story behind the songs.
I have listened to this song over a thousand times, went to eggs to see the stage show, then I’ve seen both movies! The Movie surprisingly is so much like the stage play. Because the way the stage was set up it conjured in you’re mind EXACTLY the place they used in the movie!!! You really need to see it. Sorry they completed the run of Mama Mia the play. It was fantastic, and played to a packed house with me watching the LAST SHOW in Vegas 2 seats shy of Front row center!!! I was sick as a dog when I went, but for 2 hrs roughly I wasn’t sick at all!! I was so caught up in what was going on on stage I got to forget I was sick!!! It was FABULOUS!!! You really need to see the movie!!!
YES!!! WATCH THE MOVIE!
No. Don't watch the movie. They change so much about the songs. Just my thoughts. I would advise watching "ABBA - the movie" the documentary/concert tour centred around their Australian tour in the '70s.
The "Mamma Mia" movie was awful, imo. The music was downright painful, the plot was overly contrived, and the acting was often cringeworthy. I've loved ABBA my whole life and liked most of the cast before watching the movie. I had no bias to dislike it. It was just that bad.
Some of the greatest dance songs of all time (and also some pretty deep lyric as well).. are produced by this legendary band. Long live ABBA!
The phrase "Mamma Mia" is an Italian saying that literally means "My Mother" and is used to express surprise.
True. But also can be used to express dispair. Like how English speakers use "My God".
(Ie; my god, I got red lights on my drive over here)
Benny (the piano player) is an absolute, one of a kind wizard when it comes to arrangements. Björn, the guitar player, is a miracle worker when it comes to lyrics. Together with the ladies they made magic. Many of their uptempo cheerfull songs have actually very dark lyrics. Try day before you came. Spine chilling, and a complete other side of Abba
Mamma Mia became a musical and became a major movie musical starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried ❤️❤️❤️
That would definitely be a movie they should react to.... the second movie was, to me anyway, a bit disappointing but hey, it's still got ABBA songs in it so it's still good.
@@caretaker158 I'd say very disappointing to #2. Happens a lot though.
To see Mamma Mia! live on stage gave me goosebumps, and I end up crying at the end. That is a really special musical.
@@caretaker158 I was not disappointed in MAMA MIA : HERE WE GO AGAIN, I LOVED it as much as MAMA MIA.
@@patticrichton1135 that's cool. I just thought it was a bit... I don't know... forced feeling. But, to each their own opinion. Not that I didn't like it, it just didn't measure up to the first. Happens with sequels sometimes.
The Abba Shot, one face in profile in front of the other face on. It was an iconic visual for them
Glad you're feeling better Jay! Thanks for taking one for the team! Five ABBA songs in, and you've got so many more greats to go. You'll love "Fernando", "Take a Chance On Me", "I Have a Dream", "When All Is Said and Done", "Super Trouper", and, of course, "Dancing Queen" (the ULTIMATE roller sking rink song). Have you memorized their names yet? Agnietha (ag-NYET-a) (the blonde), Anna-Frid (the brunette), Benny (with the beard) and Bjorn (without the beard).
You guys are so sweet. Your faces look child like in wonder as you discover the pure beauty of ABBA.
Love Abba. ❤ They were a hit machine in the late 70s. ❤🎼🎵🎙💃🕺
ABBA songs are a masterclass in music production and arrangements. Just so inventive and recognizable, with each song having it’s unique sounds.
"Mamma mia" is an Italian expression of shock of realization or disbelief 😲😲It means "mother mine" but it falls in the same category as "Dear God!" ... "My word!"... "Jesus Christ!" ... "Oh Lord!"
In Spanish, there is the similar expression - "Madre de dios!" (Mother of god!)
This is Abba's early international hit... It became the title of a Broadway play... and then a musical movie.
So funny. I usually say MYLANTA so I don't swear in front of my grandkids. Lol
Summer Night City is an AMAZING Abba song. It's my top fave. But I also love Does Your Mother Know, Name of the Game, Voulez Vous, Under Attack, and Waterloo. ALL worth a listen.
THIS is why the 70s are the best decade EVER , WE HAD ABBA backing up us 70s Brats
I'm always surprised to hear Jay and Amber say they always forget the guys when they're listening to ABBA! The guys are the writers, composers, instrumentalists, and of course an integral part of those amazing 4 part harmonies. WIthout the guys...the girls would have great voices yes, but may have never reached noteriety without them.
I've been a fan from the beginning. What I find very intresting is the fact that ABBA very often combine "sad" lyrics with happy music - exactly what you described too!
or also happy lyrics and sad music like dancing queen but that can also be described as happy music there that versatile.
Mamma Mia would be a good movie to react to
Agreed!! Fabulous movie! I also saw the musical in New Orleans a few years ago. My daughter got us tickets for Christmas that year. BEST present ever!! You would love it.
Wow Amber! ABBA are my favorite band of all time. I was in elementary school when I heard SOS and from that point right up to today there is no other band or solo artist whose music I have continuously listened to and have never tired of. So, Amber, I was impressed at your spot on recognition of how no other band can present dark and negative emotional subject matter in the lyrics, yet, they present it in a high energy, melodic, flawlessly produced record you want to just move to, and then the incredible voices in the tightest harmonies that the vocals soar even that much more. It took me years of listening before I really started appreciating just how difficult that is, not to mention that much of it was what was actually going on the lives of the two couples that made up ABBA at that time. And Jay, well, I totally agree 100% with what you said you loved about the song, those keyboards, the marimba (which you thought was a xylophone, which I agree, it does sound like it). Your focus on the instrumental portion of the song is exactly what gets me with ABBA in this track.The tension that the marimba creates during the song is unique to anything I’ve ever heard and I haven’t heard anything close to that since. But, amazingly, it doesn’t sound dated because of how well written, arranged and most importantly, the meticulous studio production techniques. So, both you guys got ABBA and in the two ways which they were genius, the ability to write the catchiest yet most intelligent pop music and be able to convey deep and personal subject matter in a bright and energetic sound. Hope you guys get to more ABBA and sooner than later while you are still fresh off this brilliant song because there are many, many other ABBA songs which hit the same way, bright pop music with surprisingly dark and personal subject matter. “Knowing Me, Knowing You” would be a great next ABBA reaction.
A very famous ABBA song. SO many people all over the world love ABBA. So do I.
One of my Favorites from Abba....
I have Always loved Abba. ✌❤🎶
Don’t forget those guys! Without Benny and Bjorn, there’s no songs :D
Actually, that's the real marriage
Besides the music, it is Bjorn and Benny's command of the English language in their lyrics is remarkable.
I remember getting their first album and I had all their albums at one time. S.O.S was another favorite.
I was a small child when this song came out, but my teen sisters love this song and would always be dancing to it! I never knew that this song was about a toxic relationship until now. The up-tempo beat was just so danceable and made you feel happy it's hard to pay attention to the words especially when you're a child.
Well now... I remember when these guys came out. They caused a world-wide sensation. There are a couple of movies based on this song a few decades later. If you haven't heard Waterloo yet, suggest you do. It is possibly their most famous song. My favourite, Fernando. heart lol
You are wrong.The most famous song from ABBA is of course Dancing Queen
@@larsnilsson6821 Horrible song. Don't like it at all.
@@larsnilsson6821 Perhaps because it was played too often at the time. But the movie and stage show have increased exposure for Mama Mia and brought a whole new generation of fans. So quite an important song for them.
If you want to hear the best artist for pop music ever, you listen to ABBA. Their song writing ability was off the charts and still relevant today.
A band and a song so infectious they not only made two movies called “Mama Mia” and “Mama Mia 2,” they also created a Broadway musical out of it-all of which are great. Of course you have to know all of their songs first to enjoy it, but you’re getting there. An absolute must is “Dancing Queen”! Great pick!
There is a movie and a Broadway show based on this song and the music of Abba. They were an extremely successful group with many many hits.
❤️Female Friday … Mama Mia! Happiness music at it’s finest. Nothing can touch the 70’s.
Love this song! Works very well in the movies, "Muriel's Wedding" and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert". Great movies to watch as well.
Bit of Oz love going on there Jane 😁
Thanks for the heads up. I love the movie "Muriel's Wedding" and recall "Dancing Queen" in it, but not "Mama Mia". I'll have to go back and watch it again. Lol
I am imagining the final dance number in “Priscilla”. 🎊
Oh, I just *LOVE* "Priscilla Queen of the Desert"! Utterly fab!
@@Bashimillar Of course. Completely LOVE Australia! Wish I could go back.
I had a friend tell me he was going to revoke my Headbanger's Membership Card because ABBA is a guilty pleasure of this hard rockin guy from Tx.
They are masters of their craft. When you have songs that is this timeless you know that is a masterpiece.
Another Benny and Bjorn masterpiece. Impossible not to feel good, smile, and dance when this song plays.
One of the most perfect harmony vocals ever!!! They sound as one voice, flawlesly!
If you have the chance, Mama Mia was an extremely entertaining Broadway and touring show featuring the music of ABBA. Absolutely delightful! (Better than the movies!)
It was monumentally better than the movie! It took me being dragged to NYC to see it on Broadway for me to actually realize, despite having heard them since the 70’s, just how good ABBA was! And the musical was great beyond description for me.
Pass
@@Dave-hb7lx the touring show has more than likely played Oklahoma City and Tulsa… we saw it in Des Moines Iowa! It was fantastic!
@@scottfarley3644 You don’t have to worry. Mama Mia! is now a former Broadway and former Broadway Across America show. You couldn’t
Catch it if you wanted to.
@@chrisnolte2277 Was about to tell Dave the same thing.
You are right about the xylophone/marima. They usually used at least two layers of sound on each "instrument". That's why they brought an extra pianist, two extra guitarists, and two drummers/percussionists on stage, when they played live. Plus reeds and flutes and a small three piece choir. Sometimes violines as well
this was a *HUGE* number one hit in Australia it made its chart debut on 13th October 1975 on the Australian top 20 at number 11 (a bullet performer) it jumped three places and knocked their previous hit I D0,I Do,I Do,I Do,I Do out of the number one positon it went to number one on 3rd of November that year it was number one for ten weeks that was replaced again with another follow up of theirs with SOS
ABBA is such a great group. I love this song, one of their big hits. I would like to suggest again a less known song of ABBA. After hearing and watching the video...I love "HONEY, HONEY"...It's a live performance and they are wearing futuristic outfits...Great Instrumental song as usual!!!
Most people are unaware that, for their entire North American tour, they never wore the same costume twice. Sadly I lived in a little town in the middle of nowhere with no means of getting to go see them live. I would have given pretty much anything at the time. I STILL have a bit of a crush on Frida
Abba=Great song writers meet Great Vocalist
I didn't think anyone could possibly have not heard of Mama Mia. There was a Broadway Play by that name with 20 ABBA songs (which I saw on Broadway) and the 2 movies. Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Amanda Siefried, were among the stars in the first movie. Cher had a role in the 2nd. It also became popular for flash mob performances. This is iconic.
I would add that there are videos all over UA-cam of high school music departments performing the stage production.
Can we just talk about how great Amber is looking after having baby boy?! Keep it up girl!!!
There isn't a bad Abba song - there are only good songs and great songs. Absolute legends these guys... and don't forget Gimme Gimme Gimme - another mega-hit
And they even sing a song called "Thank You For Music" ...which is a theme I think you both would agree upon.
From time, when music was innovative, and you has been able to recognize every band even when hearing their new song.
”When I Kissed the Teacher” and ”Angeleyes” are great underrated ABBA songs.
And “My Love, My Life” may be ABBA’s most slept on/underrated song of their entire catalog.
Melody in the world ❤️
It`s easy, in the end it make you smile, thats what`s music for
I took my family to the ABBA Museum in Stockholm, my sons got to dance on stage with "holograms" of the band. Great group, great reaction.
That unique instrument you're hearing is a marimba, a percussion instrument kind of like a xylophone. It has wooden bars struck by mallets. The keyboardist, Benny Anderson, added it to the song at the last minute. I think "Dancing Queen" is my favorite ABBA song. I was in my first year of college when it was released in 1976.
Your reaction is so pure! ABBA are legends in Europe, since I can remember and I'm 42 ☺️
Abba is still a group I listen to all the time . Great choice today Amber. She is singing about a lost romantic heart ache but she getting into another relationship so she is talking about oh Mamma Mia (means fear ) of getting into the relationship and falling in love.
Amber was right, though, yeah? She knew that "Mamma Mia" meant 'my mother'!😀
Actually Amber was right. The singer is talking about a relationship she shouldn't be in (example, she's been cheated by him since "I don't know when"). It's volatile, she's told him they're through and as he leaves he slams the door, but...they both know that he "won't be away too long" and that she will take him back because she's "not that strong". I mean, the chorus confirms it, as she asks "How can I resist you?" and "why did I ever let you go?" before stating "I could never let you go". And yeah, it only takes a couple of "looks" from him in order for her to "forget everything" (how he treated her). Sounds like a toxic relationship to me.
@@michelemercier2286 That's exactly what I said. That Amber was right about guessing that "Mama Mia" meant 'my mother' in Italian.😀
@@frauleinmona Oops. I was responding to the comment that said the singer was getting into another relationship, not your comment. My apologies.
@@michelemercier2286 😀 I had suspected that you might have responded to me in error. But I wasn't sure. So, I thought I'd reiterate my comment just so you'd know for sure.😺💞🍀
On the surface the music and singing sounds so effortless and even simple.
But there's a reason why so few people have tried to cover those super hits.
Interesting fact: this song knocked "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen off the number one spot in the UK in early 1976. And Freddie actually says "Mamma Mia" in the lyrics of "Bohemian Rhapsody" 😊
Much love from England 🏴
And the top male singer of the 70 s. With. Agnetha way ahead as top female singer
No small feat. 46 years later and both those songs still hold up against anything.
The piano is a string instrument, and the clips you see witch might remind you of a xylophone, is just the internals of the piano working. And you absolutely can make a some pianos sound like a xylophone.
ABBA came to prominence after winning Eurovision. Lots of hits, but Dancing Queen will take you back to the age of 17 each & every time you hear it.
I was listening to this song when i was 9 yo and it makes me remember the taste of the cookies i ate at the time!!! so beautiful
The song that started it all for them in Australia :) Interestingly, ABBA were not going to release this song as a single but after much pressure from the Australian public, Molly Meldrum (host of Countdown music program who first showed this clip) & RCA (Australian record company) they finally gave in. The rest, as they say, is history :)
My favorite Abba song by far is Dancing Queen. You gotta listen to that one.
Probably my favourite song by Abba. Just so upbeat even if the lyrics don't represent it. Way to go Jordan. You are a trooper. Feel well my friend. 👍👍
Loved your reactions.
Buckets of Maple Syrup love from Canada ❤️❤️ 🇨🇦🇨🇦
actually the music goes so well with abba lyrics because theres depth
Love them so much my favorite group in the 70's
These are a few songs that were playing when I went in the Navy. In the Navy by Village People, Reunited by Peaches and Herb, turn out the lights by Teddy Pendergast. Others are I will survive by Gloria gaynor. Without you by Harry Nilsson. If you like a story song, play the night the lights went out in Geogia by Vicki Lawrence.
ABBA had so many absolutely great songs. They were unstoppable in the '70s, and they are always part of my earliest musical memories. How can anyone not love them? So cool that they're back again. ❤️👍😎🤘
Over the course of 10 years - 1972 with "People Need Love" (before they were known as Abba they were known as just their full names (very wordy!) until they just used their initials) to 1982 with "Under Attack" the sheer number of incredible songs that they released is staggering. (They did also have a few awful ones as well!). In that 10 years they went from folk rock, to glam rock, to pure pop, disco, ballad, stage musicals style and even instrumentals. We didn't get to know them until 1974 when they won the Eurovision Song Contest and then we thought they were just a one hit wonder...it wasn't until a over a whole year later that we took notice of them again with the incredible "S.O.S." From then until 1981 they were a constant presence in the UK charts. Looking back it is hard to appreciate the sheer explosion of fantastic music that we lived through compared to today. So many fresh and new sounds. Of course the promo films you are watching of them were parodied relentlessly - and then the parodies became homages. Do try to react to the Australian films "Muriels Wedding" and "Priscilla: Queen of the Desert" which reference Abba to good effect.
I love ABBA 😍❤️ So many great songs... Move on, nina pretty ballerinas, ring ring, Fernando, chiquitta, I have a dream, Waterloo, Super trooper, etc etc etc etc ❤️👍🇬🇧
Love your positive energy you 2 ! You should do a reaction video to "Let's Go All The Way" by Sly Fox, a great 80's song !
"Dancing Queen" is a must listen. The music and vocals in that song.... 😲
❤️ Great reaction Jay & Amber! ❤️🎶😎 More ABBA you need to check out next: "Waterloo" (their first single and winning entry in the 1974 EuroVision contest), "Dancing Queen", "Knowing Me, Knowing You", "Does Your Mother Know", "S.O.S.", "Take A Chance On Me", and "The Name of The Game"
Abba was the greatest band. Still hold up to this day
If you wanna hear the male lead vocals of ABBA (in this case guitar man Björn) you should check out their 'Does Your Mother Know', you won't regret it...and btw. Amber looks great in her Rolling Stones Shirt ...
I agree, love that song!
Yes! Love that one!
YES! and "Rock me!" was another great one for the fellas.
@@joannelong8056 That one's great, as is the rare "Crazy World" with Bjorn.
The movie mama Mia f2esturing abba songs was first one of the longest running shows in London theaters. I got to see it once and man was the crowd engaged and singing along with many of the great songs.
Can you react to Take a chance on me. That has to be my favorite Abba song.
I saw ABBA at their 1st Concert in North America, Sept 13 1979 in Edmonton Alberta Canada.
Their Music is some of the best written/composed/played songs ever created
❤️
I love ABBA. Some of my faves are When All Is Said and Done, Our Last Summer, If It Wasn't for the Nights, The Visitors, Fernando ... + a gazillion others :)
Also, I would love you guys EVEN MORE if you reacted to Natalie Merchant - she's incredibly overlooked among reactors. Wonder, River, Belowed Wife, Jealousy, Ophelia, Life is Sweet, Kind and Generous, My Skin, Break Yor Heart, Ladybird, Giving Up Everything ... so many good ones.
I agree about Natalie Merchant, they are missing out if they haven’t checked her out yet!
You forgot Carnival, my favorite. 😁
@@ChristChickAutistic Well, I could just say listen to AAAALL OF THEM!!! 🤣
Money money, Ferdinando,The Day before you came,and lay your hand on me great hits of Abba
"Mamma Mía" (1975) for me is the best pure pop If someone ask me for what is a pop song, i give them this video and this song
"Mamma Mía" have all elements: catchy melodies, more hooks, beauty voices and harmonies, it's funny , It's an excellent pop song and in my Top 20 of all ABBA songs
This is an iconic video for which in Australia they asked that "Mamma Mía" be released as a single
They did it in 1975 and it was #1 in Australia for 10 weeks and ABBAmania woke up there
When the single was released in England it had a slow but steady rise to #1 and from there toppling none other than 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen in January 31, 1976
Curiosly both songs have the same phrase:
Mama Mía, let me go (Queen)
Mamma Mía, here I go again (ABBA)
"Mamma Mia" together with their predecessor "S.O.S." are the two songs that gave ABBA its musical identity as a pop group
With both songs began ABBA's great series of more than 20 worldwide hits for six consecutive years 1975/1982 included:
Fernando
Dancing Queen
Chiquitita
The winner takes it all
Super Trouper
I think that at these point in Your reactions it's esentialy to see the first worldwide ABBA hit, and in it's context:
"Waterloo" at Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton UK 1974, the night when ABBA schock the world
these is the live perfomance:
ua-cam.com/video/3FsVeMz1F5c/v-deo.html
these is an historic moment in músic
I hope to see you in another reaction to ABBA songs
My best regards from
Buenos Aires Argentina
Agreed, pop perfection a perfect pop song up there with the best of them in history.
I was a junior (Elementary) school kid when ABBA exploded in the UK (in the late 70's). I have no embarrassment in saying I was a huge fan. Still am! Take a Chance on Me, SOS and Chiquitita are probably my favourites but there are so many.
You have to react to Knowing Me And Knowing You by Abba!!!
AHA
i love how ABBA is making a resurgence! Just posted a remix of their song Kisses Of FIre here to YT, been a fan since the late 70s!
Iconic chorus with the head shots of the ladies - others have emulated
Great reaction guys! Keep more ABBA Coming!!
Never heard another song that started with a marimba! ♥️♥️♥️
Been listening to abba for the last 4 days. I never actually listened to the lyrics to mama Mia. Thanks amber.
I 🧡 ABBA! Love this song still! Congratulation to Amber for picking up on the lyrics of the song even the tempo is upbeat. It works well that way sometimes with many songs out there even nowadays! You all need to hear more ABBA and their lyrics! Enjoyed your reaction! ☮💕👍👏
Abba Sound is due to a process they invented called creating a Wall of Sound. This song was made into a Musical called "Mamma Mia".
So many ABBA hits
This one of the most famous song of Abba with dancing Queen, and been the Title of the very famous movie of "Mamma mia", base on the songs of Abba, but been in the Title make dice more recognizable
you will have to do a movie reaction to "Mama Mia" with Meryl Streep. Based on the music by Abba.
Love you guys, what a blessing you both are,please watch Mama Mia the movie
Damn son! I just had a flashback to the '70's when I was 6-7yr old kid watcing an old NZ tv music show called RTR (ready to roll). It was great then and is still great now.
Abba were massive in the 70's and early 80's in almost every country in the world...except the US (who only seem to know "Dancing Queen", at least until the Mamma Mia musical and films came out!). I loved Abba, even when they were seriously uncool here in the UK (mid-80's to late 90's) and they are the only artists that I could make a 40-track compilation of their best work and each track would be superb (not even the Beatles can manage that in my books).
Abba remain the finest pop group ever created and the CD album of "Voulez Vous" (which has stunning bonus tracks) is easily the best pop album released in the history of music (IMHO of course).
Abba was definitely known for more than just that song here in the USA, too -- they had 14 Top-40 hits here between 1974 and 1981, after all, and 4 of those made it to the Top 10 ("Waterloo", "Dancing Queen", "Take A Chance On Me", and "The Winner Takes It All"). I think they're one of those bands where everyone knows the *songs* , but for some strange reason people don't seem to remember the actual *name* of the song or the band that did it. Go figure. :-)
Abba shot to fame in 1974 when they won The Eurovision Song Contest with the song Waterloo which in my opinion was the best eurovision song ever.
Best voices on the planet
Ya can't go wrong with any of ABBA'S songs❤❤