Lyrics: “Andante, Andante” by ABBA
Take it easy with me, please Touch me gently like a summer evening breeze Take your time, make it slow Andante, Andante Just let the feeling grow Make your fingers soft and light Let your body be the velvet of the night Touch my soul, you know how Andante, Andante Go slowly with me now I'm your music (I am your music and I am your song) I'm your song (I am your music and I am your song) Play me time and time again and make me strong (Play me again 'cause you're making me strong) Make me sing, make me sound (You make me sing and you make me...) Andante, Andante Tread lightly on my ground Andante, Andante Oh please don't let me down There's a shimmer in your eyes Like the feeling of a thousand butterflies Please don't talk, go on, play Andante, Andante And let me float away I'm your music (I am your music and I am your song) I'm your song (I am your music and I am your song) Play me time and time again and make me strong (Play me again 'cause you're making me strong) Make me sing, make me sound (You make me sing and you make me...) Andante, Andante Tread lightly on my ground Andante, Andante Oh please don't let me down Make me sing, make me sound (You make me sing and you make me...) Andante, Andante Tread lightly on my ground Andante, Andante Oh please don't let me down Andante, Andante Oh please don't let me down
Song Interpretation: A Gentle Expression of Vulnerability
The Art of Taking Things Slow
“Andante, Andante” invites listeners into a world of tenderness and patience. The word “andante” itself is a musical term meaning “at a walking pace,” and ABBA beautifully translates this concept into the emotional realm. The repeated pleas to “take it easy” and “go slowly with me now” evoke a desire for gentleness, both physically and emotionally. This reflects a longing for a relationship built on trust, sensitivity, and care, where every moment is savored rather than rushed.
Music as a Metaphor for Love
Throughout the song, the narrator draws a poetic comparison between herself and music, asking her partner to “play” her gently, making her “sing” and “sound.” This metaphor extends the emotional resonance of the lyrics, suggesting that love, much like music, flourishes when approached with attentiveness and respect. The narrator’s vulnerability is palpable, as she entrusts her partner with her emotional well-being, hoping not to be let down.
The Power of Nonverbal Connection
In lines like “Please don’t talk, go on, play / Andante, Andante / And let me float away,” ABBA underscores the power of nonverbal communication. The request to forego words in favor of music or touch communicates a deep intimacy, where feelings are expressed and understood without the need for explanation. It’s a celebration of presence and emotional connection, encapsulating the gentle ebb and flow of a loving relationship.
Song Credits
“Andante, Andante” is written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. The song was released in 1980 as part of ABBA’s acclaimed album “Super Trouper” on the Polar Music label.