ABBA Interview: Björn Ulvaeus On Making ABBA's Timeless Hits
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- Опубліковано 9 сер 2023
- In this episode, Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA delves into their hits, songwriting, avatars and discusses the emerging role of AI in music creation.
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Rick's guests are getting increasingly more legendary. Next week I won't be surprised to see Ludwig van Beethoven.
I’ll take Jerry C.
A. I. Beethoven 🤣🤣😂😂
If you're gonna dream, dream big! John Lennon!
He reached out but it fell on deaf ears.
@@iluvj50 😂👍🏻👏🏻 Good one!
Rick was mentioned in Swedish press the other day, and was praised by the journalist for lifting the craftsmanship of musicians to the greater public awareness, and rightfully so, to hear your favorites broken down into the basic parts, how they constructed the song, the subtleness of the instruments and how they use and mix them, vocal arrangements, you name it. To get all that is like zooming in to a photograph, great bits all over the place, but it’s only when zoomed out, listening to the whole piece when the song comes to its full splendor, and that is why I think Rick is important for the music future, to get the young ones interested in the craftsmanship in songwriting
He was? I missed that. Do you remember which newspaper or journalist it was?
@@carlkolthoff5402 Kan vara den i sydsvenskan men artikeln ligger bakom betalvägg tyvärr. Annars kan du söka på google och klicka på kategorin "nyheter" så det filtreras på enbart den kategorin. Om du har tillgång till sydsvenskan får du gärna berätta här i tråden vad artikeln handlade om. Lycka till!
I’ not sure but I think I might have played Rick’s ‘What makes this song great’ - Boston More than a feeling- more times than the song itself, love the song, but I love hearing it broken down like that, Brad’s vocals… there’s stuff in there I’ve never heard if it wasn’t for Rick’s WMTSG
Totally with you on that!, Boxbearer.. Rick’s knowledge of both production and theory AND playing most of the instruments himself with skill, -in all genres 🤪🤯-, AND again 😆😅 so heartful and cheerful personality, makes him and his videos a totally unique resource to all music community
@@carlkolthoff5402 sydsvenskan!
What a well spoken gentleman Bjorn is. A decent, intelligent, creative genius with grace and no ego.
The world needs more like him.
You seriously do not see Bjorn's massive ego?
@@rhoneranger549 I'm sure he's proud of what he's achieved, and if a calm confidence could be construed as ego then sure yes I see that.
He's being asked about his work so he has to talk about it, and I think he does so quietly, articulately and generously.
To me that's not showing an ego.
But hey, each to their own.
I think he is very used to talking about himself, and the music they made/make. Which comes from the elevated position he been put in but other people because of the music. Its not weird to me, that how these things usually turn out. I think everyone has an ego, but i think he seems to have it under control really well.
I think he is very passionate about what he does and loves to talk about it (aswell as AI 😂 )
@@rhoneranger549 Oh come on, don't be so pathetic. Jealous much? Do you even realize what he said? He's not lying when he explains that sadly he has little memories per song when/because they recorded album after album, had release after release, performance trip after performance trip. Seriously, if he'd have no ego that would be awkwardly strange. Go listen to the ABBA Arrival album, I dare you, and try not to be shocked about the level of talent it encapsulated.
For me, ego is just the relationship with yourself. Nothing more, nothing less.
It can be healthy. It can be a little wobbly or unhealthy. It changes due to changes in life.
Björn, what a legend. Proud to be Swedish. You can tell that he's incredibly intelligent, and very well-spoken. Definitely a man to look up to as an artist.
Klassik ...Pop Genies ...Benny/Björn ///Mozart Band ABBA ❤❤❤....Annifrid/ Agnetha ..Popmusik Prinzessinen ....Greeting from Germany
Once he has Geddy or Alex on then I'll consider him complete 😉
He is a great musician. He is a legend
@@oscarmartinez2538 very,very great Sweden Pop Songrigther...B/B ...Klassic Popmusic / Band....ABBA
@@oscarmartinez2538 ...and look at him at 78 yrs old, he's amazing.We are SO lucky to have all of ABBA still in our lives, please stay safe and healthy. Fantastic video, very interesting.
As a kid growing up, listening to heavy rock, I really wanted to hate this band, but at some point you couldn’t help but recognizing the greatness of their song writing capabilities.
And today I would kill to see songwriters like them again to hit the charts.
I never thought there’d come a day when I would say “man, I miss ABBA.”
Exactly, I remember when an era of open contempt for ABBA was everywhere. I did not share in that vitriol ever and was a rocker the whole time.
I joined a cover band that played Abba. The bass was so much fun to learn.
@@MikeNevill3 Yup , I learned Dancing Queen on the bass in 1976 and never told a soul until now. 😂
The Who touring USA in 1970s - Pete Townshend listened to Abba almost non-stop
I later appreciated ABBA . I also realized BeeGees were timeless. ABBA always was feel good music
Its insane to think Björn is 78 years old and this well versed into tech!
Yeah, Bjorn sounds like a guy in his 40's and looks like he's in his 50's... Good for him!
What AGEISM you're bringing in !!!
@@PFVideoAce It is not ageism and why on earth do you need to use capitals? Don't shout.
@@eightiesmusic1984 1. You INSULT old people.
2. I use capitals because I WANT to
@@PFVideoAce It is not appropriate or necessary to make a point and what you say is completely false. The comment about Bjorn was not ageist because it was making a fair point about his knowledge of technology in the context of the fact it is relatively unusual and out of the ordinary for someone close to 80 to be so well versed. It is a compliment and I very much doubt many people would take offence.
Rick’s interview technique is the best I’ve heard.
He asks the right questions and lets the artist take over without interruption.
Björn is such a down to earth pro.
An absolute hero.
I am not sure whether this is great technique or if, instead, he is just genuinely interested in hearing what the artist has to say. Some interviewers are more interested in the questions they ask than in the answers they get.
Regardless... I love the outcome, his interviews are super interesting each and every time!
@@jawbraka666
Agreed
The expression is,” He is a gentleman and a scholar… and there are only a few of us left!”.
@@jawbraka666 100% agreed!
Because Rick is not tabloid news writer, or some random journalist that we are full now.
He is musician, someone really interested, so he talks with another person about things that booth are interested in. and everyone want's to hear what someone else has to say about thing that are interesting and have huge respect towards someone else work.
despite being a metalhead, ABBA is still my guilty pleasure. no matter what genre you listen to, you can always appreciate ABBA they are just one of those bands. simply amazing!
No reason to feel guilty about liking Abba. The songwriting, production and arrangements have stood the test of time.
Nightwish is what I would consider Heavy Metal ABBA!
Ritchie Blackmore also admits that he likes ABBA, there's nothing wrong with that!
@@rialtot039Led Zeppelin did their last album, “In Through the Out Door”, at Polar Studios. They even used the massive Yamaha synth, the GX-1, that ABBA used.
@@rialtot039 crazy thing about the Druids is that no one knows who they were…or…what they were doing? But their legacy remains…hewn into the living rock…of Stonehenge.
Rick’s interview lineup over the last few years is unmatched. 🏆
and the amazing thing is that this is only getting better and better. Rick's legacy is going to be unreachable. mark my words.
And what sets him apart and IMHO makes him a gift to the music world, is his ability to ask all the questions that are on most musicians’ minds, something those celeb musicians never get asked by talk show hosts, for obvious reasons.
I really agree on that...!
@@gpapa31 Yes. Rick is a champion. These are serious, in-depth interviews. Not celebrity worship sessions.
@@gpapa31 Precisely. His Sting interview in particular.
You could see the walls were up at the beginning of the interview.
Then slowly as Sting realised what Rick was asking, you could see the realisation in his face. “I’ve never been asked these questions before.”
I have a lot of respect for Björn's body of work but also for how he has kept himself remarkably up to date on technology when most artists tend to stay frozen in time. How many 78-year olds even know what "metadata" means?
This!!
Actually ABBA faced the same sort of criticism as acts that use Auto tune today.
They were always a very technical setup.
Particularly in the mixing and engineering department.
Björn is kind of a philosopher at heart.
@@HouseholdDog Really.. I remember back in the 70's, articles saying that ABBA had some sort of 'program' that they used to write songs and that was why they were so successful! lol!
@@bigvrocks2480 Do you need help with the subject of what I wrote?
Steven Wilson said on stage: there are two kinds of people in this world. Those who like ABBA and those who lie to you
I don’t like them.
Liar that I am.
@@stormhawk3319 you may also disagree with Wilson :)
Exactly I’m a 67 year old rock fan who grew up on Bowie, Zeppelin, Lizzy etc and love ABBA I collect them it’s become an obsession I’ve got all 14 versions of Voyage they are superb songwriters and the harmonies with the girls were amazing …. What’s not to love?
More than half an hour of just professional issues.
And both of them talking calmly and not cutting each other.
So nice to listen to!
Thank you!
Off topic,you are extremely good-looking bro 💜
He's was Bjorn a musician.
Mad respect having Björn on here.
Yes! So refreshing to hear someone speaking RATIONALLY about AI, and not just clutching their pearls and whining that AI isn't any good or is stealing jobs. Super super impressed by just how on top of everything Bjorn is.
Absolutely!
Can’t say I wasn’t a little disappointed when I realized it wasn’t Björk but it was a great interview either way
Most people love, Abba.. but not to be negative. I can never find a live voice of them on UA-cam. It's always pre-tracked. always.. what's up with that?.. try to find at least four live vocal performances. You won't.. it's always lip syncing...mmm
@@derekwilliams5149are you being serious? There are enough live videos of abba to claim they’re not lip syncing. It’s just that during their time the internet is not a thing yet.
Frida and Agnetha are the best female duo ever. Their voices blended like no others.
Indigo Girls
@@brett6468lol. The indigo girls are nowhere near the vocal talents of Agnetha and Frida.
@@brett6468
no.
Heart, and First Aid Kit isn't bad either ;)
@@michaelharrington75 I disagree. The Indigo Girls did not overdub their vocals with extra tracks, so it doesn't sound as full as ABBA. But they had a unique harmony that brought extra magic to their blended voices.
I am death metal guitarist but absolutely worship the songwriting skills of ABBA just pure genius.
Don't worry. ABBA was one of The Sex Pistols favorite bands as well. And they liked them when it was definitely not cool to do so :)
This man is 78 years old! Can't believe it.
Wow. Rick looks amazing.
It's not him, it's his avatar ;)
I am so old.
Björn and ABBA have always been way above Popmusic standards. Rutger Gunnarssons basslines were and still are phenomenal
That's it exactly - they were always way way above industry 'standards' - and it shows,even to this day. Closest thing to pop perfection ever produced, and ever likely to be I think it's safe to say❤
There are a few videos of Rutger on UA-cam. He was just a fantastic bassist. RIP.
I think that many of ABBA's songs achieved perfection and are unassailable. Try critiquing "Dancing Queen" or "Voulez Vous" or numerous others. They are perfect pop songs.
Björn shows how eloquent people can be in English, even if it's not their first language.
Unlike English / American people much of the rest of the world is bi- or even multilingual.
Björn used to live in the UK for a long period of time!
They have great English education in Sweden
Holland where I come from as well
Swedes speak English better than British folks
@@daannigten5528agreed both of your people speak English fluently
Not sure how Rick is getting all these legendary musicians on his show but he is well on his way to becoming the No.1 musician interviewer. Amazing. Congratulations
I think they all listen to Rick on UA-cam...!
@@jeaneugenedx I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of musos watch his videos to pick up musical pointers about modes and what-not (not Bjorn, of course).
If you are a famous musician, you don't really need to get interviewed to remain relevant, you still get a lot of interview requests ...
You will probably pick the one who is genuinely interested in what you have to say, who can follow you on the same level, who asks interesting questions and who listens to what you have to say.
Rick is on top of it professionally, genuinely interested and a really nice person to talk to, so it's no wonder he gets all the legends!
Next, Paul and Ringo ... Good luck!
@@jeaneugenedx Right. It wouldn't be a surprise. Plus, Rick being a veteran within the industry and a guy who doesn't go after gossip and it's easy for them to be comfortable with him.
Supply & Demand. He has the gift of bringing us the goods we all desire. If Rick was on regular television, it would be worth turning on again…
Bjorn is up there with legends like Paul McCartney and Brian Wilson. It’s wonderful that he’s still around. His insights are just mind blowing!
ony if your talking about pop or rock music
Yes, Bjorn outclass them in other types of music @@chrisbennett6260
I have the pleasure of being in one of the UK's top ABBA tributes. We play theatres and venues all over the UK and abroad. We get all ages and types of people in the audience. As a classically trained musician, I can tell you exactly why their music endures. It's amazing, complex, deep, and honest. I play 80-90 shows a year I have done since 2019, and it's still engaging and fun. Enough said.
good for you! ABBA's music always brightens up the day!
You coming to Ireland any time soon? :)
I am a studied musicologist. All I can say to your comment is: You are 100% correct. The music is amazing (melodies!), complex, deep, honest.
the basis of ABBA songs, at least a good many of them, is European folk music; not rock or blues. The kind of old traditional songs you hear in Italy, France, Greece, East Europe, Sweden and Russia. In effect they were a folk group that evolved into pop & soft rock , but the folk element was under the surface..🪗🪗🎻
@@shorerocks the roots of a good many of their songs is European folk..I sensed that from the start
Wait, what????? Björn Ulvaeus and Rick Beato? :What a time to be alive.:)
I know right!
My daughter is 2 years old, her first words were Mama and Abba. This music is immortal
Phenomenal. I think ABBA has stood the test of time because the songs are not only perfectly crafted but also timeless. NO ONE else sounds like them and their sound is as fresh today as it was 40 years ago. Fleetwood Mac accomplished that with Rumours, but ABBA achieved it every time! A superb interview, Rick, thank you.
I’m one of the biggest Abba fans in Western New York. I recently got autographs from all four members after writing a nice letter to their manager. They’re in my man cave and they’re one of my proudest achievements. I’ve been a fan of them since 1974 when I was seven years old and I heard Waterloo. I wanted anything to know about that group from that point forward and I’ve been a serious fan ever since
The whole Waterloo album takes me back to childhood. I still have the original vinyl we had.
"Man Cave" and "ABBA" together at last. I love it - congrats, sir.
@@pstrzelsame here too!👍👍
Same age also when I heard Waterloo (and saw the video!) Still have the album on vinyl, and yes King Kong Song still rules!🦍🦍👍👍
Most Excellent good sir! That is a great achievement! I'm happy and proud for you!
Amazing listening to a quiet musical genius talking so simply about how he created timeless classics. Just remarkable.
To have been a fly on the way in those studio sessions!!!
It's amazing hearing one musical genius interviewing another musical genius.
Rick is obviously very musically able but what makes you say he is a musical genius? @@davearonow65
The wonder of ABBA's success even today lays in the simple fact that their music contains everything one expects from music in general: decent form, lovely melody, harmonies that capture your heart and tasteful arrangements. They apply means of classical music and simply noone made something so handsome, so well made and so emotional to former fans as they did.
'People Need Love' , I do I do I do, S.O.S , Hasta Magnana' 'Fernando' 'Mamma Mia' ..all considered corny and old hat..now they are looked on as geniuses ..
In the '70s I would never have thought that I'd be seeing an interview with Bjorn from Abba in 2023. A very down to earth man.
I was in a bar in Houston half filled with people doing their own things. “Dancing Queen” came on over the sound system and by the middle of it everyone in the car was dancing and singing along. I’d never seen that happen ever before.
drugs is in it
I believe you.
There was a Dutch singer, Andre Hazes who had success but was hated by most people, especially from out of Amsterdam.
We ran our own bar in the army and I proceeded to put on his music and got boo's from just about everybody who was not from Amsterdam....which was just about everybody. Then the first notes hit and befire you knew it everybody in the whole bar locked arms and sang along....everybody knew those songs.
They are infectious.
Dancing Queen is a perfect song!
Everyone lavishes praises (deservedly) upon songwriting duos like Lennon & McCartney, Henley & Frey, John & Taupin, and Jagger & Richards. Unfortunately, often omitted from these conversations is the amazing body of work from Ulvaeus & Andersson. Two of the greatest songwriters in pop history!
Thank you for the music!
Dem muss man widersprechen. Nur Lennon/ McCartney haben die Musik wirklich VERÄNDERT. Und zwar positiv in damals unbekannte Sphären. Alle anderen Musikgespanne haben Jahrzehnte nur ihren Stiefel runter gespielt. Ganz schlechtes Beispiel die Stones. Die Beatles konnten ALLES spielen. Die anderen, auch Abba, NICHT. Allerdings liegt/lag das auch an McCartney, der von ALLEN aufgeführten Musikern der wirklich beste/vielseitigste Instrumentalist und Sänger ist. Der hat wirklich alle Arten von Musik gekonnt gespielt. L. Bernstein, Karajan haben zu ihrer Zeit gesagt, dass die Beatles- Musik ähnlich wie Schumann + Mozart etc. noch in JAHRHUNDERTEN gespielt wird.
ABBA = sehr gute Gassenhauermusik, aber keine wegweisende Rock/Popmusik. Für Partys sehr gut geeignet.
@@MaccaBulsi Da muss ich leider ein bisschen widersprechen. Ich denke nicht, dass es richtig ist, ABBA als Gassenhauermusik zu bezeichnen. Sicher, sie hatten auch happy go lucky Songs, aber das hatten die Beatles auch. Man kann sagen, dass Lennon und McCartney eine Stufe über Andersson und Ulveaus stehen, aber für meinen persönlichen Geschmack sind sie eigentlich gleichwertig, was das Songwriting angeht. Benny Andersson hat eine Gabe für interessante Melodien und Harmonien mit hohem Wiedererkennungswert. Björn Ulveaus ist auch ein fantastischer Texter. Er hatte eben den Nachteil, dass er im Gegensatz zu seinen englischen und amerikanischen Kollegen als Schwede die Texte auf Englisch geschrieben hat. Für einen Muttersprachler ist sowas einfacher und es klingt im Nachhinein etwas eleganter. ABBA haben außerdem viele Stile präsentiert. Natürlich sind die Beatles bahnbrechender für Komponisten und Musiker insgesamt, aber ABBA hatten und haben als Skandinavier unbestreitbar großen Einfluss auf die Musikwelt.
What's more interesting is that Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson have worked together in very complex musical projects beyond pop music, like the excellent Chess and the immense Kristina från Duvemala. They have proved to be the most enduring, inspired and versatile songwriting partnership in the business.
One of the finest musical conversations on modern technological music with one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Bravo Rick and Bjorn 👏👏👏
I’m convinced one of the primary reasons that Rick scores these interviews, is because he treats every one of them with the respect due them as professionals. This is far different than the typical “celebrity” interview.
exactly. musicians talking music. no showbizz bs.
You know you are big time when you get ABBA on. Kudos
I am so in awe of Björn, him being almost 80 years old but still his manners and way of speaking, the playfulness in his mind is that of an creative master in his prime. Absolute treasure. I'm just a little sad that Benny is not doing these kind of interviews, i would love to see them together and talk about this.
Absolutely great interview Rick!!!
ABBA is like the perfect example of QUALITY pop songwriting... in the end you don't care it's pop because it's so good (it shouldn't matter, we just already expect it to be bad).
Amazingly Bjorn is 78 years of age and yet he's still as sharp as a tack and has a glint in his eye. The light has always shone through ABBA's music. I'm 61 now and remember recording 'Waterloo' on my cassette recorder on a Philips C90 cassette during the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 (?). If I still have anything approaching 80% of Bjorn's mental dexterity in 17 years time, I'll be very pleased.
A billionaire songwriter/musician/artist who earned every penny and is doing a lot to help fellow artists get paid. (Not my only take from this) One of your best interviews to date.
The way that you walk the line between an awestruck fan and a knowledgable professional in these interviews is unmatched on youtube. Thank you, Rick, for all you do.
I always wonder if his kids are like,
"Hey, who's the old dude in dad's basement?"
"Dunno. Whatev."
@@mikeyn9359haha thats great😂 but in this case i think they were just as giddy. Rick describes how all of his children know ABBA music
Abba is like art and science coming together.
Björn is an all time mastermind. Musically, intellectually and personally.
Benny & Byorn are on the Mount Rushmore of songwriting.
Now he needs to get Barry Gibb
Rick had a continueing look of “omg I can’t believe i’m interviewing Bjorn from Abba” on his face during the entire interview lol.
ABBA's body of work is frankly, breathtaking. Bjorn and Benny's songwriting skills are second to none. That is a simple fact. Anyone, regardless of their musical taste will secretly love ABBA. Even if they don't or won't publicly admit it. I love heavy and progressive rock, but I also love ABBA, because their songs were so brilliant. Rick's interview style, allowing the guest to speak freely and without constant interruption is a lesson to anybody who carries out long interviews on how it should be done.
These men love artists and are brilliant
Can I just say the 'grace' with which all four members carry themselves in todays World is an inspiration.
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering love and support for Abba music. Your dedication as a fan means the world to me, and I am truly humbled by your passion.
Abba's music has stood the test of time, and it is fans like you who keep the spirit of their unique sound alive. Your enthusiasm and devotion are evident in every note you sing, every dance move you make, and every word of praise you share. Your love for Abba's music is contagious, and it brings immense joy to my heart.
Through their harmonious melodies and meaningful lyrics, Abba has touched the lives of millions around the globe. Their music has the remarkable ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from pure happiness to heartfelt nostalgia. It is a testament to their extraordinary talent and the timeless nature of their songs.
I want you to know that your support has not gone unnoticed. Your dedication to Abba's music inspires me, not only as a fellow fan but also as someone who appreciates the power of music to unite and uplift. Your enthusiasm motivates me to continue sharing Abba's music with the world, knowing that it resonates deeply with people like you.
Whether you are singing along at the top of your lungs, attending tribute concerts, or simply enjoying Abba's timeless tunes in the comfort of your own home, know that you are an integral part of the Abba community. Your unwavering support is a testament to the enduring impact that their music has had on our lives.
Thank you for being an incredible fan and for keeping the spirit of Abba alive. Your love for their music is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring people together, transcending time and boundaries. May the melodies and lyrics of Abba's music continue to touch your heart and inspire you for years to come.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Bjorn Ulvaeus
First thank you. I saw you when I was 11 years old @ Football Park, Adelaide, South Australia.
My sister had bought tickets for us, and at first I was angry. All my friends had blue and red tickets and I was the only one with a "Green Ticket" I had no idea green was for the grass section right up by the stage. My dream had come true!
My mother didn't care care for "modern music' but she loved you. Abba really did transcend generations...❤
Paul.
@@bjornulvaeus6923
I worked as a software engineer in the music industry for multiple years. Everything Björn is saying is spot on. Music metadata and rights attribution are still some of the largest issues today. A.I. will exacerbate this significantly. Thank you Rick for a wonderful interview!
They're non-issues. The IP legislation is the real issue that AI is exposing.
People build on each other's ideas all the time, there's nothing wrong with that. The authors of the old songs are not entitled to any money earned by a software engineer.
In turn, software engineers are not entitled to a share of the profits if anyone reuses their software ideas.
What do you think is the difference between AI collaboration and an artist who spent their formative musical stages listening to songs, and learning how these songs were crafted and performed, and then writing their own stuff. Do "collaborators" that work on a song who were influenced (trained) by Jimi Hendrix owe a royalty to Jimi?
@dunscj This is such a great question, and one that many of us are asking today. My personal opinion is that this exposes some major gaps in copyright law. Technically, by definition of the Supreme Court, for a work to be considered original, it must have a “spark” and “modicum” of creativity. This definition is inherently vague, and this was made apparent with the recent Ed Sheeran Marvin Gaye lawsuit. This is almost always up for interpretation, which does not scale well. What Björn is pointing out in regards to music metadata, however, is a separate issue. When someone listens to a song they are actually consuming two copyrights, one for the “musical work” and another for the “sound recording.” For example, Dolly Parton wrote and recorded the song “I Will Always Love You” and Whitney Houston recorded a cover of this song. In this scenario there are actually three separate copyrights (one musical work and two sound recordings). Every time someone records a cover of “I Will Always Love You” it must be linked back to the original musical work so that the writer can be compensated correctly. A lot of times, the proper metadata to make this connection is not provided and it gets distributed across digital platforms, and the platforms do not know who to pay royalties to. Now, with the explosion in generative A.I., this problem will become much more difficult. We have methods to detect if someone has used a portion of an existing sound recording (Shazam, UA-cam Content ID) but we don’t have a way (that I know of) to automatically detect if a sound recording infringes on an existing musical work.
@@dunscjexactly. If band X says they were heavily influenced by band Y are they rushing out to start paying them royalties?
I think what is going on hear is an extension of the "old music is killing new music" debate. Big rights holders (or administrators) are worried that generated music is going to start competing with the back catalogues that they farm. They want to create some new and more incidious concept of a derivative work so that they can claim money off AI music that merely referenced their artists in a prompt. They are recruiting old timers like Bjorn by exploiting the fear that this is somehow unfair for the artists that are used in prompts. But this is obvious nonsense. Probably the only people that are really getting screwed here are software engineers but unlike boomer rock stars they mostly work salary jobs and don't own anything that they create.
Meanwhile actual new human music is still being squeezed out of the market between the competing regurgitative strategies and marketing budgets of huge corporations.
This is by far the best interview with Björn I have heard. What an amazing conversation!
Of course!
Yeah man. I think it’s Beato’s best interview so far too. Especially coming from a creator/ producer perspective
I agree. Great work @rickbeato!!
Yes indeed I have never seen Bjørn so open in an interview.
I've seen this man interviewed a number of times. I'm so impressed that he is always gracious and professional. Such a gifted musician. I'm sixty now, so ABBA has been a part of most of my life. My children are also ABBA fans because I have shared my love of ABBA's music with them. I've always said to them that ABBA's music is way more than just pop music. I enjoyed every second of this video. Thank you.
ABBA music can evoke tears of joy or sadness and i dont know why.... .the power of good music
From 14:36 - 16:14: Björn’s description of how the music tells him what the song is about and how it suggests the lyrics, is the best description I’ve ever heard of the creative process of lyric writing.
That's basically what the lyrics of "I let the music speak" are about
@@alexisjordan3303 Similar intuitive vision-feeling process, however I let the music speak is about the listener's perspective. Just letting ourselves immerse in to the musical experience. Get yourself a pair of good headphones, lossless music files, darken your room and ideally close your eyes, and synchronize your breathing to The Day Before You Came or The Name of the Game, I'm a Marionette, Eagle, I Let the Music Speak, Like an Angel Passing through my Room, The Piper, Move On and several others.
You'll not be sharing a dance like with Dancing Queen, nor sharing a singing moment like with Mamma Mia but with this, you'll have an auric, sensory enhanced experience, complete as few other popular music is able to take you to.
Absolutely. Anyone who's ever tried to write music and lyrics will relate to that. Just start, write something down, and let it guide you from there on.
And it's truly priceless!!! I could listen to this interview over and over again... What an awesome person and what an awesome interview!!!
ABBA was IMHO the greatest pop band ever!! Their production quality even to this day was remarkable. Perfection all around and largely impossible to “improve.”
Agreed.
He got to the secret of the songs success - those two voices. He said himself in an interview 20 years ago - that they have an angelic choral quality to them. It’s like heavenly church music. Sublime
One of the better interviews I have ever heard. Informative, nostalgic, and emotionally engaging all at once. I am so glad that Bjorn is still humbled when he hears the iconic tunes of ABBA still being played today many decades after they were created. That illustrates that this is a man of great humanity. May he and the other band members along with everyone else involved, be blessed for providing us with a huge body of beautiful music to enrich our lives. Kudos to Rick for such a fantastic video and interview.
Bjorn and Benny are two of the greatest composers of the 20th Century. I wish they would do a MasterClass on songwriting to help train future generations.
it will just be computers doing everything, instantly
Björn did the lyrics Benny the music.
They have already done it! that's why now all the songwriters are from Sweden
@@stefanhortell4046Björn and Benny jammed on guitar and piano largely in early years at least in the cottage on Viggsö. Both created the music, but nowadays Benny presents Björn with the music for him to write lyrics
@@stefanhortell4046not always. Bjorn has a producer credit on Voyage, for the first time since the 80s. As much as Benny was probably the driving musical force in the 70s, Bjorn wasn't restricted to lyrics back then.
Abba are the ONLY band in the world that are on the same platform as The Beatles.The quality of songs, their appeal to audiences from 8 to 80, their unique sound. Those songs will never get old. It was awesome listening to Bjorn and you did a great job interviewing him! He comes across as such a sincere man. As far as the AI stuff goes, make no mistake, it is the corporations ploy to control and maximise profits under the pretence of creativity.
I completely agree and stand by this opinion
True..perhaps the Bee Gees are in the same league ?
So true. It’s always “how can we monetize this”.
The Beatles and Abba consistently wrote very strong melodies. Memorable, hummable, great a capella. For many songs today, there’s nothing left after stripping out the instruments and heavy production.
@@wombatboterYes, the Bee Gees had a lot of songs with strong memorable melodies.
Bjorn, people of all ages love your songs because they are so well written in a language which isn't your mother tongue. And, the harmonies, the harmonies.
ABBA are a musical treasure, so glad to see Bjorn share his thoughts/wisdom!
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering love and support for Abba music. Your dedication as a fan means the world to me, and I am truly humbled by your passion.
Abba's music has stood the test of time, and it is fans like you who keep the spirit of their unique sound alive. Your enthusiasm and devotion are evident in every note you sing, every dance move you make, and every word of praise you share. Your love for Abba's music is contagious, and it brings immense joy to my heart.
Through their harmonious melodies and meaningful lyrics, Abba has touched the lives of millions around the globe. Their music has the remarkable ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from pure happiness to heartfelt nostalgia. It is a testament to their extraordinary talent and the timeless nature of their songs.
I want you to know that your support has not gone unnoticed. Your dedication to Abba's music inspires me, not only as a fellow fan but also as someone who appreciates the power of music to unite and uplift. Your enthusiasm motivates me to continue sharing Abba's music with the world, knowing that it resonates deeply with people like you.
Whether you are singing along at the top of your lungs, attending tribute concerts, or simply enjoying Abba's timeless tunes in the comfort of your own home, know that you are an integral part of the Abba community. Your unwavering support is a testament to the enduring impact that their music has had on our lives.
Thank you for being an incredible fan and for keeping the spirit of Abba alive. Your love for their music is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bring people together, transcending time and boundaries. May the melodies and lyrics of Abba's music continue to touch your heart and inspire you for years to come.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Bjorn Ulvaeus
Why is their music still around after 40-50 years? Because it is that darn good. Period.
Loved this conversation. Björn is a national treasure and one of the truly good guys in the industry. Such incredible humility, generosity, and decency. Kudos to Rick - this was an amazing treat.
He seems like such a kind soul as well which just makes me happy
I feel blessed to be around at the same as him.
A gentleman, extremely professional and talented. He is most eloquent in his ability to relate the songwriting and production process. Remember, English is not his native language!
Even as a Dane I have to admit that this svenskjävel is alright :D
@@rasmichaelDanskjävel spotted!🚨🚨
One of the most underrated artists of the 80s is Gino Vannelli. Can we have a video about him?
As a Swede; ABBA is in my soul/DNA. Love love love them! What great songwriting! I remember sitting right next to the speakers because I wasn't allowed to play very loud (we didnt have headphones in my household) and playing all their records through and through. Legends! And thank you Rick!
They were in mine when I was just 9 years old 50 years ago and I'm in America. Always loved them and received joy from their harmonies and melodies.
Rick, you should get an award for this video. A masterpiece featuring one of the musical geniuses of our time. Thank you, I’m humbled just listening to it.
Oh man ... what an honor to have Björn from ABBA here ... I'm a German resident and really want to thank you for this great interview! Thank you Rick!
Woher genau bist du? :)
@@Chrisopsful Wohne im Süden, ca. 30 km nördlich von München. Und selbst?
Hallo! Ich habe von 2009-2012 in Heidelberg gelebt. Ich habe Bayern besucht und Ihre Region ist wunderschön. Ich lebe jetzt in der Nähe von Washington DC und habe leider viele meiner Deutschkenntnisse verloren!
@@sevans2140 Kein Problem. Ich wohne in Bayern aktuell. :) D.C. ist an der Westküste oder?
This was perhaps one of the most brilliantly orchestrated interviews I've ever witnessed. Absolutely brilliant!
Björn is a genius, and so down to earth, love that guy.
Regular members of the crew backing musicians of ABBA were: Lasse Wellander on lead guitar, Ola Brunkert on drums & Rutgen Gunnarsson on bass... R.I.P. Lasse he died over two months ago... thank you for the music Mr. Björn... and again thank you Rick for another wonderful interview you have that charm to always make all your guest laugh and feel at home ... kudos from Guadalajara México ✌😎
Brunkert and Gunnarsson are also no longer with us, unfortunately. Janne Schaffer, main guitarist during the early years, is still going strong though.
I was privileged to see Janne Schaffer last month at one of his summer gigs in Stockholm, where by incredible coincidence I also met Agnetha. This was a brilliant technical interview. How humble that he says he thought by the 80s they’d be largely forgotten. I guess he’s right in a way, before ABBA Gold was released in 1992 the band was regarded as passé by most.
@@jonnyk84 I have loved Abba since 1975. I am now 53. You are right about the perception of the band before the first Abba Gold album in 1992 even though it beggars belief that they could have been so widely ignored. I never understood this throughout the eighties after they stopped recording in 1982. I remember seeing Bjorn mention in an interview that he was very much aware of the disinterest in the band in this period. Kudos to Erasure for kickstarting the revival with their affectionate tribute covering Take A Chance On Me in 1992. Even this was misunderstood by many as parody due to the video. What was Agnetha Falkstog like to speak to and what did you talk about, if you do not mind me asking? No need to share any of the conversation if you do not wish to, of course. There is so much hype about bands, many of which are fairly ordinary notwithstanding the fact that music is subjective but Abba are one of the few bands people will still be listening to in a hundred years time, such is the depth and longevity of their music.
Production, Songwriting, Instrumentation, arrangements, vocals..., ABBA were top notch. That's why they were so huge! And still are! The last album was great!
Massive ABBA fan here, I love this interview.
Well that 37 mins went too fast! The sheer musical genius of ABBA really doesn’t need to be explained these days, but I’m always amazed with the calm, humble and engaged demeanour all four members conduct themselves with to this day, despite their enormous success and legendary status. Bjorn just exudes class and passion for music. Another stellar interview Rick. I’m looking forward to the day when you interview Paul McCartney and Keith Richards at the same time (any day now, surely? 😂)
Here’s the thing with Abba songs: you can sing them. You can dance at the wedding and sing them, you can sit in the back of the bus with no music and sing them.
And they are all relentlessly family friendly. Not a single cuss word.
@@penpondsThe only Abba song i can think of that might be on the border line of family friendly is Two For The Price Of One, which contains quite a bit of sexual innuendo and undertones
ABBA are musical geniuses, the fashion, the lyrics the music , everything about ABBA is timeless.
LOL listen, I am the biggest Abba fan you could meet and I agree about the music, lyrics, production being timeless but the fashion? That is definitely not timeless but it just is what it is :)
@@nigeljames5622I agree with you there! 😄 To keep it positive, their fashion can at least be labeled iconic. 😉
A lot of early Abba is not timeless The King Kong song etc... but mature Abba is
I know abba got onto the music map with Eurovision but what is overlooked in a lot documentaries is that Australian fans helped them rise to fame, Bjorn acknowledged this some years ago thanking us for helping to keep the dream alive when he was here. I’m 3/4 Swedish and I’m very proud of them. To this day I study their techniques and I concluded the bulk of their songs are suped up Nordic folk songs. Who’d have thought of it? May god bless them and protect them always! In regards to them not writing stuff down they’ve trained their memories not to forget.
Writing lyrics is something between poetry and melody.... and this is why their music still rocks.
Rick is unstoppable.
By far the best music-related channel on youtube. This entire catalogue should be archived.
He's really becoming a good interviewer as well. Asks great questions and lets the guests speak.
yes, it should !
As an ageing metal head, I grew up with Swedes overseas in west Africa during the 1970’s. I was subjected to so much Abba that it’s now part of my dna. So many great well crafted songs.
It doesn’t matter what type music you like it’s about appreciating the craft and the way these songs are now part of outlives.
Why has ABBA's music lasted so long? Because it is honest music. It isn't political. People can sing along to it. People can play it. they are delightful tunes. They have lovely lyrics. And because the arrangements and vocal performances are musical.
For all those reasons I love ABBA's music. I have all their albums on CD.
Good music, such as any art, can be political and last a long time, take a look at Pink Floyd.
@@ivan.90125 Puhleeze! Pink floyd has only been around a few decades - only intermittently for about 1/2 century. In the context of "music" I would see 4 centuries as approaching "a long time" - there is in fact much music that is centuries older than that. And after that time I very much doubt if there would be any ordinary folk who would understand the political context of the song unless they had spent a significant amount of time doing the necessary research.
@@socialite1283 Half a century, four centuries.. you are talking bs, there's no problem with art being political, actually, it has always been political since it reflects what we as humans do and who we are... and we are political.
Btw ABBA is younger than Pinky Floyd, so that argument is silly.
@@ivan.90125 Music - both popular music and art music in the western world has been being written and performed for over 1000 years. Pink Floyd has been around since about 1965, and their best work was in their first 20 years. I expect that the Jo and Jane Public people 400 years from now will be as familiar with the work of Pink Floyd as you are with the work of William Byrd and Thomas Tallis, and JS Bach, Henry Purcell, and George Handel.
@@socialite1283 It's nice that you can name all those names, you look really smart, if only you could prove a point you are trying to make. I'll give you an example, poetry from Ancient Rome (older that the guys you named), it's often political, jet understandable and with some themes still being up to date with modern times. So yes, art can be anything, so it surely can be political as well. If it's good, it will last, no matter what it is talking about.
This will be my last comment, I'll no longer respond to your nonsense.
Why are they popular even now!!!! It's simple... Good blend of soulful music... Great lyrics... Melody... The ladies voices blend well and compliment each other. And four great personalities. I'm from a small State in India called Kerala. I grew up listening to ABBA in the early 80s. And we still listen to ABBA songs. It's still refreshing and soothing...
Absolutely enlightening! Thank you Björn Ulvaeus and Rick Beato!
And what an amazing record you put out this year. "It all began with Loneliness" is mind blowing. As ABBA would say, "thank you for the music". Would love Rick checking out some modern releases of this type.
Bjorn historically doesnt suffer fools when being interviewed since all of the past ones - since the 70s, were "abba this abba that" fanboy questions. This interview is the only one ive ever seen when he truly seems comfortable with an interviwer on the same level or close to it as himself. Intelligent questions and no fluff. You scored major with this Rick.
I could listen to Bjorn for hours. What an articulate, intelligent, old school gentleman. You are responsible for bringing so much joy to the world. My earliest memories are singing ABBA songs in primary school in the 70’s. I still love ABBA.
The thing I love about Rick's interviews is that he asks the questions that many of US would ask, if we were there. And I suspect that (many times) he already knows the answer, but he asks so that the artist can answer, and share their process and insights with us. This channel is my favorite music-related channel, without question. Thank you, Rick & team. You all are the best!
He is like the Yoda master of pop music. There is so much wisdom and valuable message in everything he says ❤
That’s exactly what I thought! He’s 78? He talks like he’s still 30 years old. Definitely the Yoda of pop!
Bjorn hit the nail on the head when he said, "bullshit being uploaded." ABBA has quality music from the heart; that's why it has lasted so long.
I’ll tell you why ABBA’s music is still popular and why they are drawing new fans every day. For the same reason the classics are still finding new audiences. Because it’s great music. The difference between the classics and ABBA is the singers. Not just anyone can can sing like angels. The song writing is among the bast. The singers are on top of the best.
It's so great that all the members of ABBA are still with us. Bjorn is always absorbing and interesting in interviews and is kind of the "mind" of the group, the one who always speaks on behalf of their technical adventures and how everything works in the scheme of things.
Saw Abba live at their peak at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto in 1979, still have the ticket stub and photos
I had tickets to see them in Washington DC during the same 1979 North American tour. Unfortunately, Agnetha became sick prior to the concert and this concert was cancelled. I was totally bummed out.
@@tim_davidson6344 thats a total bummer!!
Rick, thank you for a wonderful interview! You are such a gracious and curious, positive gentleman - and a true fan of music!
I have to share my ABBA story.
I'm swedish and born in 1987. While growing up I never heard ABBA on the radio or saw anything on tv. My family has a summerhouse on the island next to Viggsö, where they had their writer's cottage, in the Stockholm archipelago where we have spent summers since 1958: the same light, beauty and environment that Benny and Björn was inspired by. When I was a teenager and started playing bass and guitar in various bands and with teachers, people would always talk about ABBA and how swedish it sounded. When I decided to study music production, the SAE (School of Audio Engineering) in Stockholm was in the very studio that Benny's band The Hepstars built and used. There was a lot of history in the walls! Later on I developed a fanatic interest in analog synthesizers and keyboards and started learning to play ABBA songs, I got hired as a keyboard player in a big band, touring and playing ABBA songs - an amazing experience! Deluxe Music, the great music store close to the old Polar Studios, had the same synth mechanic! He showed me Benny's old Yamaha GX-1 in the workshop while it was being repaired and even let me play on it! A while later, the store sold the old Oberheim OB-X used on "Super Trouper" and it was still in pristine condition. Max Martin came in and bought it...cash!
Needless to say, through the years, I've become a big, big fan of ABBA. Their sound represents a golden era of my home country and a world renowned reputation in the music industry and among songwriters.
When I worked at the Royal Opera House as a foyer host and usher, I met both Björn and Benny, being starstruck of course, but equally humbled by their warm personas and gracious attitude towards fans and they really appreciated my story of being immersed in their music and ultimately, choosing a life in music by studying music production, singing and eventually becoming a certified music teacher.
In 2019, both my mother and my older brother were diagnosed with severe illnesses. In 2020, the pandemic hit and put an end to many of my dreams as a singer and voice teacher. I was in deep distress and depression. But, when I heard "Don't shut me down", the return of ABBA and their sound - something I thought I would never experience - I started to heal.
To Rick and to Benny, Björn, Agnetha and Frida:
Thank you.
Beautiful story!
WOW!.....Fantastic and interesting. The man is very sharp and intelligent. One of my favorites that you have done so far on your channel.
i am only halfway through and i've already learned more than in all my songwriting classes combined
Bjorn is so humble. He is surprised ABBA’s music is still popular and has no idea why.
Rick it doesn't get any more a-lister... Bjorn has had such vision and understanding how to make it work. He's just brilliant
All of the ABBA-hits are perfect pop-songs so you 'll just come back to them over and over again. They'll always sound good.
I’m 16 min in. This might be the best music interview I’ve ever seen. Bjorn is in a lucid state, and Rick asks the best possible questions at each point. Bravo!!
Björn & Benny are creative geniuses combined with the raw talent of Anni-Frid & Agnetha, is what makes them true pioneers of popular music..... an excellent interview as always from Rick thank you.
@sonicart I agree. Benny & Bjorn captured Anni-Frid & Agnetha's voices to perfection. The icing on the 'musical cake'...!
Funny how throughout the interview several times he referred to them not by name, but 'the girls', but always refered to Benny as Benny ...
I found that odd 🤔?
Yes it was strange, not sure why he did that though?@@kevwills858
@@kevwills858 Bjorn actually refers to them as 'the ladies" in this interview. And yes in the past he has talked about 'the girls' often. Do not know how he used to talk about them in Swedish, which must had been their common usage.
Besides that, nothing odd here since Bjorn and Benny met and started working together four years before actually meeting the ladies and full 6 years before ABBA was formed as a musical group. Furthermore both B&B continued working in collaborations for decades after ABBA separation up to their last known, a musical a year or so ago.
I have loved ABBA since 1974. Back then as a teenager, it was generally not cool to like ABBA. I didn't care. It is sooooo gratifying to finally see ABBA get the recognition and praise that they have always deserved. They are now rightfully part of popular music royalty.
I agree with that as well, what was it uncool to be an Abba fan in my school days.... I was the only one in my school class, and today, laughs. For me, the four of them wrote the music of the century.
So very truth. Even today there are people who do not recognize ABBA work, and I am not talking about loving or liking ABBA music, but about quality and standards they brought into pop music.
I got into ABBA during the “grunge” years about 30 years ago. Good pop was almost nonexistent then, but it’s way worse now!
All rockers love Abba. Everyone loves Abba.
ABBA wrote both my mother and my aunty (who was like a 2nd mother) favourite song of all time.
at my aunty's memorial, it was the first and last song played... all family, friends, everyone knew it had to be that song.
that is such a special and rare gift that a group of songwriters and musicians could have that sort of impact... that people all over the world want one of your songs played at their wedding (every single one ive been to), or their funeral... two of the most important events in ones life.... that is so so special... that has to be the biggest compliment for a songwriter...
and i cant imagine anyone wanting an AI song played at their wedding or funeral... not yet anyways
Brilliant interview yet again. Always asking the right questions. We need an interview like this with McCartney. People always ask him the same questions and while he’s here he deserves a really good interview about his creativity.
Good point
100%
Ditto
A true giant in popular music, with Benny, Agnetha, and Freida. When those 4 were together, it was pure magic.
Bjorn's love for music and enthusiasm for the writing process is clearly still alive. Great interview!
This is blowing my mind! Bjorn is making some great points about rich metadata. We need to bring this stuff back to recordings. That’s why I still love vinyl, no reason why digital formats can’t include liner notes, artwork and more (like videos as he mentioned)