ABBA Winner Takes It All: Band revisits heartbreaking story behind hit song

Heartbreaking story behind ABBA's hit Winner Takes It All revealed by group members Agnetha, Benny, Björn, and Anni-Frid.

In the 1970s, the iconic Swedish band ABBA, composed of members Agnetha Fältskog, Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, captivated audiences with their music. One of their most poignant hits, "Winner Takes It All," shared the heartbreaking story of love lost.

The song, featured on their successful Super Trouper album in 1980, delved into the personal experiences of the band members. Björn Ulvaeus, reflecting on the creation of the song, emphasized the importance of starting with a powerful lyric that captures deep emotions and human experiences. The lyrics, which were inspired by Ulvaeus' own divorce from bandmate Agnetha Fältskog, resonated with the entire group.

Fältskog, known for her emotional depth in her music, poured her heart into the song, drawing from her own life experiences and feelings. The breakup of Ulvaeus and Fältskog, after seven years of marriage, served as a central theme of the song. Ulvaeus admitted that the pain of divorce was a significant influence on the creation of "Winner Takes It All," as it reflected the absence of a clear winner in their own relationship.

Similarly, the marriage of Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Benny Andersson, another pair of bandmates, was also falling apart during the same period. The personal struggles and heartbreak experienced by the band members added layers of emotion and authenticity to the song, making it resonate with audiences around the world.

Through their music, ABBA was able to capture the complexities of human relationships and emotions, creating timeless hits that continue to touch hearts today. The story behind "Winner Takes It All" serves as a reminder of the power of music to convey personal experiences and connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.