Take A Chance On Me – ABBA

Take A Chance On Me – Lyrics

If you change your mind, I'm the first in line
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you've got no place to go, if you're feeling down
If you're all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain't no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try

Take a chance on me
(That's all I ask of you honey)
Take a chance on me

We can go dancing, we can go walking, as long as we're together
Listen to some music, maybe just talking, get to know you better
'Cos you know I've got
So much that I wanna do, when I dream I'm alone with you
It's magic
You want me to leave it there, afraid of a love affair
But I think you know
That I can't let go

If you change your mind, I'm the first in line
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you've got no place to go, if you're feeling down
If you're all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain't no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try

Take a chance on me
(Come on, give me a break will you?)
Take a chance on me
Oh you can take your time baby, I'm in no hurry, know I'm gonna get you
You don't wanna hurt me, baby don't worry, I ain't gonna let you
Let me tell you now
My love is strong enough to last when things are rough
It's magic
You say that I waste my time but I can't get you off my mind
No I can't let go
'Cos I love you so

If you change your mind, I'm the first in line
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you've got no place to go, if you're feeling down
If you're all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best, baby can't you see
Gotta put me to the test, take a chance on me
(Take a chance, take a chance, take a chance on me)

Ba ba ba ba baa, ba ba ba ba baa
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best, baby can't you see
Gotta put me to the test, take a chance on me
(Take a chance, take a chance, take a chance on me)

Ba ba ba ba baa, ba ba ba ba baa ba-ba
Honey I'm still free
Take a chance on me

[fade]

Interpretation and Analysis of “Take A Chance On Me”

A Song of Hopeful Romance and Persistence

“Take A Chance On Me” by ABBA stands out as an energetic declaration of love and optimism. The lyrics center on someone offering unwavering support and affection to a potential partner, encouraging them to take a leap of faith in love. From the very first lines, the singer reassures, “If you change your mind, I’m the first in line, honey I’m still free, take a chance on me.” This persistent offer embodies both vulnerability and hope, expressing the desire to be chosen despite uncertainty.

Unconditional Support and Loyalty

Throughout the song, the narrator emphasizes their availability and steadfastness: “If you need me, let me know, gonna be around.” The repeated promise to be present during difficult times—”if you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down”—highlights a devotion that is both comforting and sincere. It speaks to the idea of being a reliable presence in someone’s life, especially when they are most in need.

The Joy of Togetherness

ABBA weaves in imagery of simple, heartfelt moments: dancing, walking, listening to music, and talking to get to know each other better. These lines suggest that love doesn’t require grand gestures; instead, it’s about enjoying each other’s company and building a connection. The chorus’s upbeat melody further amplifies the joy and lightness of taking risks in love.

Resilience in the Face of Doubt

The narrator acknowledges the other person’s hesitance—”You want me to leave it there, afraid of a love affair”—but remains undeterred. The song becomes a gentle plea for openness, with the repeated refrain urging, “Take a chance on me.” The unwavering optimism, even when faced with possible rejection, is both empowering and relatable.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1978
Label: Polar Music