A stopping place for now: 'Agnetha/ABBA, Belatedly'

© 2009-2011 (original portions only)

This, from an older-but-wiser geezer whose spot was once the old Cleveland Agora (USA); a venue that a '70s pop band (not named The Raspberries) possibly would not have survived:

After many years of ignoring them it's been an enjoyable (and ironic) experience to "discover" 'supergroup' ABBA, and reluctant star Agnetha Fältskog [aŋˈneːta]. (Pictured/link. Also credit to Mr. Palm (see below), for that descriptor of Ms. Fältskog.) Surprise (U.S. rock fans...(of a 'certain age')):They were excellent at their craft.  I hope those who stumble upon this informal site will (also) find interest in some of the learning that's occurred....  (I know that many of you have also 're-discovered' Agnetha/ABBA...) Please make use of the index of topics/labels located below on the right sidebar.  This blog is - for the most part - music-focused.               (Photo (also a link to an indelible performance) : Agnetha Fältskog, ABBA, Ekeberghallen, Oslo, Norway, January 28th 1977. Author: Helge Øverås. No website endorsement implied.)

Blog navigation note/hint: No time right now?? Please start here with this "salient points", condensed blog summary (link).

A listeners' review of Agnetha's post-ABBA recordings (link)  - though incomplete - is worth a look to see if you agree with its selections and perceptions. Note: Includes an updated Agnetha 'top ten' listing. Agnetha's special voice? Independent, music-detail insights about it are here. And, please try these three posts for a little broader perspective (i.e., they are not only about Ms. Fältskog.  Research about ABBA's 1979 stormy Boston concert flight is included.) Links: Here, here and here.

If there's an overarching point via the (belated) discoveries detailed here, it's simply this: Ms. Fältskog can sing. (Despite some retro-star-power-induced detours nearing "the deep end" in this blog ("actuated by" Agnetha's published efforts - years later - evidence of a true star....);that is really what this written effort is about. (Her singing.))An extraordinary pop voice: Crystal-clear, sweet and expressive. Per much that's asserted in this blog; her voice inside your head(phones): A pleasure. (Link is to an individual YouTube song tribute from aficionado '2Shaymcn'. (Videos from that YT site are linked here with permission.)
 ...Combine with the 'element' of heavenly female beauty ..and to some (at least); a captivating delight (link). Though her in-English work is in the past now, she is well worth a (re-)visit --in any form: "Smiling sensation" Agnetha (at her utmost) is more discoverable than ever via "time machine", You Tube.

(Insert...) 2014: And yes BTW, (rightly or not) I do feel slightly 'flattered' when Agnetha/ABBA official websites (etc.) occasionally re-use descriptive words such as 'aficionado' and 'siren'......Employed by this tiny blog (years ago).(Screen-cap image/example follows:)

(Continuing previously written text:)Necessary to know, up-front: Both ABBA singers together were essential for that band's success. No Frida and Agnetha = No ABBA. For many, the presentation (singing, etc.) of ABBA's songs was equally as important as the exceptional writing, producing. (A YT link to one fantastic (performing) example...)  (Update:) Easy prediction: In the popular music sphere I believe that these two ladies will be revered (more revered or acclaimed) for years to come. They were that special, together ...One sample link here to a beautiful ABBA ballad, featuring Frida's stellar lead...). Related: Singing with/skillfully harmonizing with other singers was clearly a major strength forMs. Fältskog(the main focus here; solo work). A sample link to one appealing post-ABBA example. (And another: A not-well-known one (during her ABBA days), from Sweden (link).Another lesser-known favorite....ooops, Not hers??) More: A much-too-cursory Frida appreciation is included here. (A beautiful recent, published picture of Frida is linked here.)   
And please see the end of this post for a 'bonus quotation' that nicely describes the two voices of ABBA. 

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/nytorp/images/agfrconc2.jpg

(Nope: In case it's not obvious, I'm

not associated in any way with

 ABBA, Ms. Fältskog or their record companies.If you find that you're not convinced of certain findings here, pls. try some available videos on You Tube for a mesmerizing sample (Ms. Fältskog, solo). And consider what present-day viewers there are saying. Or: Why not read on in this blog and enjoy the many included links....Most of us will never meet the Swedish singer, but this effort may be a good way to learn much via her music. Plus the mere fact that a number of unofficial 'appreciations' or tributes have been independently created on-line (in several locations): A tremendous compliment to this performer. (And those similarly created for other ABBA members, the band itself, etc.)

(Continuing:) From not even knowing the names of ABBA's members and only a few of their hit songs (like many people in the U.S.), it's been good to gain a richer appreciation of the "mega" pop group and those associated. With millions of others I'll be enjoying recordings, etc. of the band, and especially from Ms. Fältskog. (Aside: None of it is Mozart, nor opera singing....But ABBA understood that.) Plus, of course the numerous, well-done tributes etc. on You Tube.... which seem to expand by the week. (And huge ABBA fan Sen. John McCain may unleash an impromptu karaoke retrospective at any moment, as we all know. Don't get me going re Vladimir Putin....Update: Or, NYC mayor Michael Bloomberg...?) ABBA exemplifies something not all too readily done, done very, very well. It is difficult not to respect and admire that....(Celebrated actress/voice artist Joanna Lumley says it succinctly with this recent quotation, displayed here (link). And as some YouTube commenters currently like to "get a little stupid" (and write underneath ABBA videos (for example)): "I'm an unborn fetus ....and I LOVE ABBA." ...)

Stop: BTW, is this blog (you're reading) one guy's way-late "head trip" (mainly) about a singularly talented, 1970's/80's Swedish singer?? (A performer with enough 'star-power' to motivate (inspire) this unprecedented effort (for me.) Answer: Possibly YES, at moments. (Don't think I was quite at this point, though (link).) However please read on, as you may well find that it's worth the trip back....Agnetha's appealing pop voice is reason enough.
(An appropriate ABBA song (title) for this 'trip'?? (Link, new window.) The two ABBA singers together: A dream, always...)

Until 2004, ABBA's state-of-the-art Polar Music Studios was located in this building in Stockholm.

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As noted here and elsewhere, Carl Magnus Palm has written the definitive ABBA biography to date: Bright Lights, Dark Shadows. If you haven't yet done so please consider reading it especially if you're an ABBA or Agnetha fan. It is well-researched and very detailed. Also, if you want to know what was being written -- factually and otherwise -- about all ABBA members during their peak years, an excellent web site has quite a collection for you: http://abbaarticles.blogspot.com/

Some stories are largely made-up or just tabloid trash, but ABBA members did talk frequently and could be candid. In fact, though some publications unfavorably label Ms.Fältskog to be reclusive, uncooperative, etc., the truth is that she has spoken candidly with selected sources over many years. (See a few of the articles linked above.) This lengthy and detailed blog being read right now is completely based upon the singer's available public interviews, biography, published music, etc. The artist is generally publicity-shy (or was; pls. see 'late 2010 update' near the end of this post), but there is hardly a lack of information from/about the public Agnetha. (Just one example: A charming and candid short interview from 1981, via this 'ABBA4EVER' link (new window).

 ABBA has moved on and it's time for me to do so as well. I'll add more to the blog perhaps if an event of significance occurs (with the group or members) . But please check back for ongoing updates, enhancements and additions to the current entries. If you read something here, please leave a civil comment (if you'd like) as I'll continue to be able to view them. FWIW, all original entries here are copyrighted. Thank you.

A closing word (or two) about talented Agnetha Fältskog, who -- along with many other fans -- I've quickly come to admire. (For reasons detailed above and elsewhere. There may be millions of us (Agnetha fans)...clearly we all have good acumen, perception, etc....) 1) I hope proper recognition for the key contributions made to ABBA by both fronting ladies will be forthcoming. (I.e., Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Agnetha.) Both were essential to the group's great success, and their voices together were something like pop music magic, in my view. (Ref. this interesting forum discussion about the "third voice" that sometimes emerged. As also noted previously; rich-voiced, rock-solid Frida "carried it" on numerous ABBA songs; Agnetha more the dramatic accent. "Money Money Money"; one example.) Note: Volume is high on the following. Actually both vocalists are pretty impressive in this ABBA song/video version (mimed here; more about its singing linked here), which somehow magnifies Agnetha's high-note contributions...Plus: An even better song featuring the singers at their best together follows via this post.


(YT video link)
In other words they were attractive ladies who could sing, and sing well together. Not all that common of a combination, judging by how very few true "successors" (none?) have appeared in popular music since. They were hardly just "a couple of decorative Swedish babes", as a few (especially around these parts) may have once thought. To me, it is not going too far overboard to claim the two women together at their peak as one of the miracles of latter-20th-century pop music. (Yes, there were a few...(another) (+ another). A different one (link).)  E.g., Please enjoy this available YT performance (link) and tell me that it was not. (Ms. Fältskog especially, that time.) And if interested (ladies/vocalists): Try to (truly) match DQ's singing on your own/via karaoke. You'll likely find yourself impressed with A and A's effort...


A petition for overdue ABBA induction to the "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" is here. Remember: The Bee Gees, Madonna, Dave Clark Five and other pop-oriented acts are already there. (And per the comment received below, it is appropriate to question that entity's validity, purpose, etc. ABBA is a 2002 Vocal Group Hall of Fame inductee.) 9/09 UPDATE: Click  for news of 2010 "Rock Hall" nominees. And know it right here, first: ABBA is IN in 2010. So many lesser acts have been inducted,  I don't see how the enduring pop 'supergroup' can be kept out of the Hall any longer....Vote in and follow a current poll for 2010 nominees, here. 12/09/09 update: Rumors are circulating today that ABBA will indeed be inducted in March, 2010. 12/15/09: Congratulations to ABBA and all associated. Long overdue....
A link to a 12/09 post about the announced induction (from this blog's perspective) is here.

2) Ms. Fältskog's clear, sweet voice, packed with emotion at times; is a gift. (Which also seems perpetually youthful-sounding at times, but there's more to it than that.) If not already underway, I predict a revival (or kindling) of interest and appreciation for this underrated singer's work. (Beyond that of the various Agnetha imitators in "ABBA" redux shows. They're fine in some cases, but no one has the original singer's distinct voice.) In the big-market United States, my continuing impression is that (the real) Agnetha remains sketchily known. (I don't think for a second that this matters any more to the successful artist. And she, of course, remains very popular in home Sweden and elsewhere. Also, a mention that in some (homophobe?) corners of the U.S., ABBA music, etc. is still disdained, per (supposed) popular appeal in the gay community (pages 501-2). I don't condone that but, at any rate.... At my age I chart my own path (heteros were attracted to the ABBA ladies ,too), and am mature enough to enjoy ABBA's qualities now, "bias-free".(Though definitely a "slow learner" ....☻. Brain-free too??: Follow this link for a tiny farce.)

As the private lady approaches her 60th birthday, it's a question as to whether we'll hear Ms. Fältskog again in English. Sixty isn't so old (to some of us) but Agnetha's pretty much gone her own way after ABBA, so only she knows for sure/controls her destiny. But if her special voice remains intact it would be a loss not to hear it recorded in some way, at least one more time.(E.g., A link to a story about a great pop singer still "remarkably fresh"-voiced at age 67: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/arts/music/27tomm.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&em)

Per the following quotation in Mr. Palm's book (2008 edition), Agnetha responded in 2004 -- at least in part -- to fans imploring her to record again. Putting together an album is not easy, but if you happen to agree with me about her pure, feminine voice, perhaps consider writing a polite request to her record company. This website has an excellent article that might assist with that: http://www.agnetha-forever.de/ChangeLog/Write/write.html
Maybe a single-song duet or something like that is still in the realm of possibility....

Agnetha Fältskog from 2004 (re "My Colouring Book"), as quoted on page 539, "Bright Lights, Dark Shadows", C.M. Palm, author. (Short passages used with permission.) :

"I get a lot of fan mail from all around the world, and it's fantastic to hear that they like my music so much and want to know what I have been doing, and that they really love and miss my voice. It affected me so much, that's when the idea came up in my head maybe I should do another record."

There may have also been other reasons, but still, that was a nice one....

(More "nice lady": A link from the excellent http://www.agnetha-forever.de site to liner notes from Agnetha's 2008 compilation album, "My Very Best": http://www.agnetha-forever.de/ChangeLog/myverybest/myverybest.html  )

Whatever happens let's hope that this underprized singing star enjoys peace and satisfaction, and whatever else she wishes. My impression is that Agnetha remains a private person, quite settled with family, etc. now. As written (perhaps with a touch of envy and/or wistfulness; but not necessarily untruthfully) here: "...she’s mostly kept the silence of someone who’s conquered the world already." (Or, at least as much of it as desired(!).)  Late 2010 update: Or....perhaps NOT. Ms. Fältskog surprises with a number of recent public appearances plus a photo 'spread'/story in Sweden's (glossy) 'M-magazine'. Link to a translation (English) (incl. photos) from Mikory's ABBA blog. Agnetha's even reportedly doing some flying again, and sings a little "by the piano" (and plays). If one reads "between the lines" a bit in this interview, though, it mostly sounds like the lady may be retired now, professionally. (As written just above, here.) The prolific recording artist has earned that, or whatever she wants. But, Ms. Fältskog didn't completely "close the door"....
More: FWIW; possibly as a revealing  "glimpse inside", the Swedish star once wrote at the end of her 1996 As I Am biography that she had not "closed any doors". But also that: "...It would be horrible to be compelled to live up to world-wide expectations, to the money, or to what other people expect of you." (Page 149)

(Continuing previous text:) Agnetha has (also reportedly) said that she did not aim to be "worshiped by loads of people". 

"Thy voice is music..." — Shakespeare, Henry V, V-ii   (Ed. note: No...other parts of this quotation do not apply.)

(Agnetha Fältskog. Author: Daniel Åhs Karlsson, 4/7-2008. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. In short: you are free to distribute and modify the file as long as you attribute its author(s) or licensor(s). Its use is in no way an endorsement of this website...)

One telling, final note, from the 2008 afterward of C.M. Palm's "Bright Lights, Dark Shadows" (page 540):

Re Agnetha in 2004 (and beyond), after releasing "My Colouring Book":

"After one final lengthy Swedish television interview towards the end of the year, Agnetha once again stepped back from the media spotlight. It seems unlikely there will ever be a follow-up album, although she didn't rule out the possibility, hinting that it might be a Swedish-language-release that would "end my career as I started it"."

 A 'bonus' quotation: I'm taking the liberty of including one special paragraph from Christopher Patrick's excellent book, ABBA: Let The Music Speak. A stellar description (page 142):

"Between them, Agnetha and Frida had a dazzling array of vocal colours that would rival any artist's palette, and these were blended with astonishing results. Every now and then in their extraordinary unison world, one singer would change tint ever so slightly, adding yet another gorgeous hue to the spectrum."

(Blog note: The last edit to this post was on March, 2012.)

Link to my full blog: http://star4abba.blogspot.com/

Ms. Fältskog's 1996 biography

As noted elsewhere, this blog focuses mainly upon the English solo music of ex-ABBA singer Agnetha Fältskog. However, it also occasionally "strays" into other public (not private) aspects of her long successful career, especially post-ABBA. There is some commentary here and there, based primarily upon reading of prominent books and interviews (about and with the singing star).  (Including portions of this entry.)

Readers who freely stop by and sample information presented here are certainly welcome. However this detailed, music-oriented blog (about Ms. Fältskog solo music, mainly from a number of years ago) is unlikely to draw large numbers. A limit is that very few can contact or have a dialog with the star (subject) herself. 

This blog effort is clear in its admiration for Agnetha and her "impressive pop instrument". (I.e., her distinct voice.) But it's important for a more balanced presentation to - in a necessarily indirect way - make sure the star "has a say" here, too. To briefly provide interested readers with some clue about her.... Maybe give us a glimpse. (One such (fairly recent) indication (of the 'real person'): This 2004 interview available on YouTube (link). Also, pls. see the end of this post for a 2010 update...))

We cannot ask her, but she has done such a thing - for all of us - via her 1996 biography, As I Am. Written with Brita Ahman, the book alternates between Brita's writings/impressions and (what appear to be) small sections directly 'penned' by Agnetha herself. 

I have read a copy of this biography and a general reaction or "take" is included elsewhere here, for those who may care. Some of the portions written by Ms. Fältskog (in the book) are especially worthwhile for fans interested in the person.(Side note: And here is a link to one review of this effort, from 1997.)

Understanding that the book was created some fifteen years ago - quite awhile ago now - I'd still like to attempt to include one particular excerpt. It is from page 84, (As I Am, ABBA Before & Beyond, Agnetha Fältskog with Brita Ahman, Virgin Publishing, 1996). (Aside: If it is material, I note that this blog (being read) is generally a commentary, criticism and a research effort. It is non-commercial; no money is earned (from it). Therefore, excerpting a few (of the following) paragraphs for illustrative purposes (here) may constitute 'fair use'.)

From my reading of As I Am, I believe that the following speaks volumes about adult Agnetha and how she handled aspects of her life, as ABBA (and her marriage to Björn Ulvaeus) came to an end. (In the late 1970s/early 1980s.) It is an interesting "snapshot". Please see if you agree. (And pls. take time to visit some of the (supporting) links located throughout this post.)  Note: The following is, of course, written from Ms. Fältskog's perspective. It may or may not represent the complete "story" : 

Agnetha writes (from the time):

"...When I chose to put the children first it wasn't to escape to a cosy, safe little world. I tried to follow my heart and take responsibility for their lives, to see that they would get to grow up in conditions as normal as possible, with a secure place in the world where they were often caught in the spotlight because of their parents' fame...."

"On the whole, I have taken the main responsibility for (the children). Once (their father) had moved to London and the divorce had gone through I strongly felt that I was the children's only security...."

Ms. Fältskog goes on (page 84) to describe her concerns about being a single parent and a single woman. But she then writes this revealing paragraph, perhaps a glimpse of the adult woman that she "became" (at least in part):

"However you really aren't complete as a woman just because you have a man at your side. Solitude can also be extremely stimulating. You feel a sense of liberty and are especially sensitive to outside ideas...You develop as a person and learn to tackle so much more than you thought you could. Even practical things like battling with the boiler, the pool units and suchlike. So you become what you become: an independent woman."

(Old image, Google/LIFE archives, freely available.)

This post wraps up with the following commentary: 

 Such words seem to reflect an eventful journey  from the young, Swedish teenage singing star, who once wrote songs such as "I Was So In Love". (Jag Var Sa Kar, her first single song, recorded in 1967 (age seventeen).) Note: In later interviews Ms. Fältskog seems to enjoy hearing such early songs, but distances herself as well, saying that (the) lyrics were "naive".

Agnetha uses the word "practical" in a slightly different sense here, but it might be applied as a descriptor for the person, too. (I.e., for the life situation described (via the excerpts).)  (However, those interested in Ms. Fältskog might also take note of unsettling developments that occurred (with the person) in the 1990s....)

Was this a glimpse at "the real", adult Agnetha? That is left for interested readers to consider.

Thank you for taking the time to read.


Link to my full blog: http://star4abba.blogspot.com/

FAQ: Why hasn't Sweden's 'Litteris et Artibus' medal been awarded to ABBA's Agnetha?

 (2012 update: Agnetha gains recognition of a different form. More here (link, new window). 2014 update: Not quite the same as what is detailed below, but ABBA receives an (apparently) official prize, as detailed via this off-site forum link: http://www.iphpbb.com/board/ftopic-30652567nx61610-14716.html#625407 
...And one more belated update to the 2009 post that follows: I've learned from this website (link) that Agnetha once received a "gold medal from the king" (of Sweden) around the time of further honors from her birthplace (Jönköping), in 1984.)

(Previously written text follows, from 2009-10:)

Huh? OK, that question might not be on your '411' short list. And it's very likely not on the docket of ABBA's Agnetha [aŋˈneːta] Fältskog. But we're here, the question's been posed, so let's briefly work through this together why don't we. Perhaps someone who actually knows can enlighten ABBA/Agnetha fans about this one. (Note: Links below are light blue.)

Beyond what is shown on the web site for The Swedish Royal Court I admittedly know little about the subject. That source says that the Litteris et Artibus royal medal "... is awarded for outstanding service to the arts, especially to music, dramatic art and literature."
Also from the royal site, re Medals (in general) : "Medals are presented to Swedish and foreign citizens for outstanding contributions that benefit society and also in commemoration of significant people or important events."

Agnetha's former husband and ABBA band-mate Björn Ulvaeus was awarded this medal in 1999. Without knowing all of the criteria it's still fairly easy to understand why. He, along with co-writer Benny Andersson (ex-ABBA) have made significant music composition contributions since ABBA. And, of course, they were the (primary) writers of the successful group's many popular songs. (So why hasn't ABBA's musical "engine" Benny Andersson also been awarded this medal? Updated note: Mr. Andersson apparently has a few (other) honors of his own (link)....))

I'm not certain who (in Sweden) selects appropriate recipients of this medal, though it's likely H.M. The King himself and/or appropriate individuals with some formal (i.e., royal) association. And I'd guess that most of the rest of us don't know all of the criteria or qualifications for such an award.

Please note: This is not the launch of a "mouse potato" campaign on anyone's behalf. (I.e., Ms. Fältskog.) I might be fairly presumptuous at times, but (even) I would not be that forward. (BTW, the artist is reputedly not a PC/Internet user.)  And per below, she doesn't need 'help'.

All that said: The interesting question remains. Out of curiosity, why hasn't this Swedish royal medal been bestowed to date? Some ideas follow, further below. Ms. Fältskog's desire for privacy may be a concern.

Many ABBA/Agnetha fans can offer reasons why she should receive serious consideration for an award. (You knowledgeable ones receive a gold star of your own and can probably skip this section.) A few obvious ones: 1) Her pure, brilliant singing voice alone should make her something of a "national treasure". (My opinion, but shared by many. Here, also.) I'm likely being naive, but Ms. Fältskog is so well-known and regarded via her voice worldwide, that (I'm bold enough to suggest that) perhaps she should (alternatively?) be considered for Sweden's Hovsångerska title.(Usually reserved for opera singers.) Both of ABBA's accomplished singers perhaps should be....   2) Her voice (plus, as noted several times here, her appearance, stage presence, etc.) helped sell over 350 million records for Swedish supergroup ABBA, worldwide. (All record sales figures are estimates, by record companies.) To many (not all), Agnetha was ABBA's primary "focal point". A pop music icon, though she did not seek that status. 3) As a solo artist since ABBA, she has sold millions of her recordings. (E.g., 1983's "Can't Shake Loose" (single), RIAA "Gold" certification. The Agnetha.net website (Bio section) puts song copy sales at 2 million +.) 4) In 1975, Agnetha co-produced and wrote most of the songs for a fine, solo studio album (in Swedish): Elva Kvinnor I ett Hus, Cupol CLPS 351, released December 1975.(Title translates to 'Eleven Women in One House (or Building)'. Bonus: View some fan/experts' rankings of this album's songs, here (link).  5) As a solo artist prior to ABBA, and even occasionally during her ABBA years, Ms. Fältskog (often) performed (in) local concerts or shows (e.g., annual "folk park circuit"), etc. throughout Stockholm/Sweden. (Note: Please refer to years 1972 or earlier via the excellent "ABBA Annual" link.) She also was a successful teenage singer in Sweden, prior to ABBA. She also starred as "Mary Magdalene" in the original Swedish production of the musical "Jesus Christ Superstar". (YT link to a distinct (and beautiful) performance...) 6) As noted previously in this blog, ABBA and Agnetha continue to be popular today via You Tube, worldwide. (I haven't even talked about the ABBA-inspired, successful musical, Mamma Mia!.) One of a number, this unofficial fan-created web site illustrates Agnetha's enduring popularity: http://www.divasthesite.com/Singing_Divas/Vox_Populi/vox_populi_Agnetha_Faltskog_1.htm 7) From what I know, Ms. Fältskog is a Swedish citizen in good standing; born, raised, and still residing there. AND, has likely been a "mega"-taxpayer in the Swedish system. 8) For ABBA and its members, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame beckons. I firmly believe that this overdue international recognition is coming in 2010. 9) Agnetha's got a (Note: volume is high on the clip) "secret" sense of humor.... (OK, I added that as a "medal qualification" ...And the sense of humor is not really a secret; here is a forum 'thread' devoted to it (link): http://www.iphpbb.com/board/ftopic-30652567nx61610-9485.html ) Update: 9a) Some of Agnetha's vocal 'antics' in certain solo appearances (link to one impressive example, new window), a few songs with ABBA, and the solo song mentioned in the next point; show a decided sense of humor with displaying (indulging) various vocal abilities. Although much is owed to this song's production, just one ABBA example: After enjoying Frida's appealing lead listen to the following song again (link), for Agnetha's intertwined, high (background) harmonies...
10) She did "Golliwog". (jk, again.)


Obviously, I could go on further about this, offer more reasons, etc. (Mercifully will not.) But this isn't a campaign. I doubt that H.M The King accepts "write-in votes" for potential medal recipients. It's likely considered rude to even ask....

Regardless...Examples seem to be many for Ms. Fältskog, supporting the stated qualification of "outstanding service to the arts, especially music...(etc.)". Other popular singers in Sweden have been awarded this medal. As noted, we don't know all of the criteria. Perhaps it's "not such a big deal" in Sweden. Perhaps it's believed that ABBA members have received enough (money, rewards, etc.) Equal time: Here's a link to another point of view about awards for ABBA members: http://www.abbaplaza.com/site-en/columns.asp?ColumnId=45.

Agnetha Fältskog - I Won't Be Leaving You

© 2010-11 (original portions)

Please have a couple of listens to the following song, from the uneven but underrated Eyes of a Woman album by Agnetha Fältskog. (Pronounced 'ahn-EH-tah'.)

To get "out of the way" a minor element (upfront): FWIW, this newer listener isn't totally enamored with the singer's use of her falsetto voice at moments on "I Won't Be Leaving You"'s (recorded) background/backing vocals. I.e., sometimes it "works", sometimes it distracts/detracts....

However.... the main vocal in this tender ballad illustrates what the pop soprano (?) could do with expression; with feeling. Agnetha's inherently bright voice may render it subtle at first; but the longing and the "want" she is able to impart here: She's right up in your ear with it - particularly in higher-fidelity recordings. (Who wouldn't like to imagine that... ?) If you listen, you can feel the aching yearning at times, especially as the song moves along. (And despite a 'clunky' lyric line or two...) It's real. Exposed. Perhaps singing with someone in mind or even some past experience.

"I want you....I need you", from the refrain: She makes you believe it - whoever Ms. Fältskog is singing about....or to. You feel it, along with her. And it's sexy and intimate (amongst other sensations it invokes). Sung sultry-sweet and with absolute clarity as always; characteristic of the talented vocalist.

...An outstanding singer, especially for sadder/longing ballads (such as this). A signature solo song for the artist, I believe. (She has (at least) a couple of them. And BTW: By "signature", I mean distinguishing. Displays key aspects or features of this particular singer.) :

Link to HQ YT video/sound (currently available). This is the better sound quality YT presentation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9EcdYZIZko&fmt=18

2010 update: Bad news for YouTube viewers/Agnetha fans...The music videos (formerly above) have been removed from YT (United States) apparently by giant UMG. (Update: At least that is the (removal) message that appeared on YouTube initially...Original message:" This video contains content from UMG. It is not available in your country.") A shame that the solo artist plus this representative song lose that exposure here. (FWIW: A link to Amazon's current offering of the Eyes of a Woman album is here. The song is also included on Agnetha's 2008 compilation, My Very Best.) 

2011 update: It's back...at least 'for the moment' via YouTube. Thanks to 'MegaABBAgirl' for posting. (Link to the song (new window). Note: Volume is high...) 2013: A better-(HQ) quality YT version is here (new window opens): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waPJsjgjB4k

(Continuing previously written text:) Whatever you believe about the merit of some songs Agnetha  chose to record as a solo artist, her voice does not disappoint.

Added note: I'm guessing that renowned session musician Lasse Wellander is the source of the brief guitar solo in this song just after the four minute mark. (Corrections welcome. E.g., could it have been another ABBA guitarist, Janne Schaffer? ) Like all of ABBA's regular, backing musicians: Sehr proficient and too often overlooked....

Additional observation: I wonder why the singer pronounced the key (title) line in this song so it sounded a lot like "I won't believe in you"...? Perhaps Agnetha is singing "I won't be leavin' you" (i.e., droppin' the 'g') and attempted a little play on the words with the phrase. But this did not really jibe with the meaning of the lyrics. (Unless I'm just not "getting it".)  


Link to my full blog: http://star4abba.blogspot.com/

Angels in Disguise: ABBA's 'That's Me'

"Retro discovery": A "new" ABBA promo video. Uhh, new for me, that is....I much-belatedly started listening to this legendary pop band only a few months ago. (A link to the well-sung 1970's video is near the end of this post. We're taking a short break from "Agnetha solo", here...)

As noted on several occasions here both ABBA front singers Agnetha [aŋˈneːta] Fältskog and Frida Lyngstad were good actresses in their early, song-promoting film clips. Even knowing this, it seems to me that both are especially enjoying presenting 1976's "That's Me". (The surprisingly intriguing "B-side" for mega-hit "Dancing Queen".)

(Dancing. Old image freely available from LIFE photo archives)

ABBA guiding force, manager Stig Anderson could be candid when giving interviews about his charges. E.g., in this (well-done) ABC News "20/20" segment from 1979, he provides Pierre Salinger with quick but quite revealing "capsules" of the supergroup's four stars. (Also ref.: Carl Magnus Palm's "Bright Lights, Dark Shadows".)

Closely-involved Stig nonchalantly describes both ABBA ladies as having "temperaments". (But also softens this with other observations.) And I believe that this was likely true to a degree. The sometimes volatile nature of the women's relationships (before, during, and after ABBA) may (further) bear this out. Both (apparently) were strongly individual, with perhaps a little vulnerability at times.

(I'm speculating a bit, but if Björn Ulvaeus wrote this song's lyrics (as he usually did for ABBA by mid-1976), he was increasingly writing from personal experience/relationship experience. See pages 285 and 294 in Carl Magnus Palm's 2001 ABBA biography for additional background information.)

"That's Me"'s promo seems a rather quick "knock-off", incorporating clips from other ABBA vids., etc. But the videogenic women and their expressions make it quite watchable. (Shot in tight close-up: You have to be an attractive person to pull that off....)) The ladies - posed sister-close - are enjoying this song; looking nice, singing in their sultry/sweet voices .... (*cough*) about (perhaps) some (personal?) high-maintenance qualities. (As we're forewarned in the song's opening lines.) Almost looks like they're keeping back a laugh every now and then (as they mime the song). It's good acting -- perhaps in part because some of the words were meaningful (for the two). Both ladies (are able to)  "reach through the screen" on this one:

Check out the whimsical looks as they sing "That's me, you see" around the song's middle section. Were these ladies "diva-like"? At times, I'll bet. (Ms. Fältskog eventually named one of her greatest hits (solo) compilations with the same title. This song is said to be one of her favorites. 11/09 update: Confirmed as one of Agnetha's favorite songs (ABBA); per page 133 in the "As I Am" biography.) Knowing some of the group's backstories it's hard not to smile a bit watching their (seemingly) tongue-in-cheek performance (at moments) here.


Anyway, another underrated pop song from the group/artists. It's humorously done but to some extent expresses a contemporary attitude.

"Angels in disguise". Who knows; perhaps in this man's world they are.... Both definitely could sing like it.  "That's Me"'s in-unison singing, quickly followed by the two voices wonderful harmonies:
It is "(ABBA) vocal magic" on display...  Two modern-day 'sirens'. (Link is to word definition; meaning #2 -- but part of def. #1, also....)
  2014 update: Love the coincidental (lyrics) reference: "I believe in angels...", in a snippet of the two (snowy) ABBA beauties at the 0:48 mark of this cool, official video (link, new window).

(Continuing:) -> More: Watching the video performance several times: Though seemingly a fairly "routine" (for ABBA) effort, taken as a whole -- song, singing, (certain) lyrics, video presentation, ladies' performances (video and in-unison singing) -- I think it shows multifaceted greatness (from this group). And, it's also somehow (rather) intensely personal to/for viewers. (For the time period. Again; the womens' acting has something to do with this.)

A few selected lyrics from "That's Me" are at the end of this entry.

The YT video (at last):

Link to this video (functioning as of 2009): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mP_dk429rbc&fmt=18


Bonus: For a more complete perspective from the two ladies (in general), please re-visit this 2009 "Aftonbladet" interview: http://www.aftonbladet.se/nojesbladet/article4248848.ab
And, if you're in to "retro-competitions" with these two here's a poll for you (link).

(Oh...And let's hope that the tune's "Carrie" reference wasn't somehow to Brian DePalma's (late) 1976 movie "carrying" the same name. That is unlikely, however: Both the (detailed) "ABBA Annual" site and Wikipedia show "That's Me" recorded/released in 1976 (August), as a 'B' side. It was then later released as a single in Japan in 1977.)

Selected lyrics, "That's Me". Artist: ABBA:

"Are you sure you wanna hear more
What if I ain't worth the while
Not the style you'd be lookin' for
If I'm sweet tonight
Things look different in the morning light
I'm jealous and I'm proud
If you hurt my feelings I'll cry out loud
I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry
That's me

Are you sure you wanna hear more
Would I be the one you seek
Mild and meek like the girl next door
Don't you realise
I may be an angel in disguise
It's lonely to be free
But I'm not a man's toy, I'll never be
I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry
That's me "

(etc.)

Added 'bonus': The following linked performance (currently) available on YouTube is of a different ABBA song. It is included to help (further) demonstrate three things: 1) How absolutely beautiful both ABBA's singers were in their prime performing years. (E.g., It is not that 'easy' (for most) to look that great in bright sunshine...) In more than one way the two together (still) have no equal (duo) in popular music. ABBA (as an entity) was indeed smart and fortunate to attract and (further) develop such talent. Singing sirens.... 2) ABBA showed prescience to film song promo videos or actual (television) programs such as this one (in part), years prior to MTV. Though likely not a primary aim at the time, new generations are able to "discover" the supergroup from its peak years via such films. These are going to be viewed/re-viewed for a long, long time to come.... (Thanks again to '2Shaymcn' for editing/posting it - please mind your (headphones) volume.)
3) Did I mention that the ABBA ladies were very beautiful?? (Check out a couple of the viewer comments on the actual YT video...) Anyway...the two are posed/acting for the video here, but I think it's pretty clear that they got along OK...
('Subjective' 3a.) Frida's most becoming hairstyle of any video (I've located)...Except this one (link), also.)

Enjoy. It's 'old-time' now, but there's still nothing quite like these two: (link) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyGmvfJiJ-4
 


Yet another worthwhile look back: 'Deep link' (click) to part of a beautiful, YouTube photo/music tribute to ABBA, by 'nickless1980'. Of the many excellent photos displayed, the too-brief (candid) moment at the 6:22-23 mark picturing young and joyful ABBA ladies together - as Dune's outstanding "One Of Us" closes out - is bittersweet. Poignant now...as is much of this video collage- plus-music.




(Image source: Getty Images. Non-commercial usage. No ownership/endorsements expressed or implied.)

Link to my full blog: http://star4abba.blogspot.com/