Author: lyricspedia

Lyrics: Knowing Me Knowing You

No more carefree laughter

Silence ever after

Walking through an empty house, tears in my eyes

Here is where the story ends, this is goodbye



Knowing me, knowing you (ah-haa)

There is nothing we can do

Knowing me, knowing you (ah-haa)

We just have to face it, this time we're through

(This time we're through, this time we're through

This time we're through, we're really through)

Breaking up is never easy, I know but I have to go

(I have to go this time

I have to go, this time I know)

Knowing me, knowing you

It's the best I can do



Mem'ries (mem'ries), good days (good days), bad days (bad days)

They'll be (they'll be), with me (with me) always (always)

In these old familiar rooms children would play 

Now there's only emptiness, nothing to say



Knowing me, knowing you (ah-haa)

There is nothing we can do

Knowing me, knowing you (ah-haa)

We just have to face it, this time we're through

(This time we're through, this time we're through

This time we're through, we're really through)

Breaking up is never easy, I know but I have to go

(I have to go this time

I have to go, this time I know)

Knowing me, knowing you

It's the best I can do



[repeat]

The End of an Era: Reflecting on Heartbreak

“Knowing Me Knowing You” by ABBA is a classic anthem of heartbreak, capturing the emotional journey of a breakup with remarkable honesty. The opening lines, “No more carefree laughter, Silence ever after,” instantly set a somber tone, hinting at the profound change that comes when a relationship ends. The song’s narrator walks through an empty house, filled with memories and sorrow, acknowledging that the story has reached its unavoidable conclusion.

Acceptance and Moving Forward

One of the most poignant aspects of the song is its theme of acceptance. The repeated refrain, “Knowing me, knowing you, there is nothing we can do,” underscores a sense of inevitability. The breakup isn’t due to anger or betrayal, but rather the recognition that the relationship has run its course. This mature perspective is both painful and liberating, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of moving on.

Memories That Linger

Throughout the lyrics, memories play a central role. The lines, “Mem’ries, good days, bad days, They’ll be with me always,” evoke a sense of nostalgia. Even as the narrator prepares to leave, the past remains vivid and significant. The reference to “old familiar rooms” now filled with “emptiness” beautifully captures how spaces once alive with love and laughter can become reminders of what was lost.

Emotional Honesty and Universal Appeal

What makes “Knowing Me Knowing You” so enduring is its emotional honesty. ABBA doesn’t shy away from the pain of separation, but also offers a sense of resilience. The acknowledgment that “breaking up is never easy” is coupled with the resolve to move forward, making the song relatable to anyone who has faced the end of a significant relationship.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1977
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Money Money Money by ABBA

I work all night, I work all day
To pay the bills I have to pay
Ain't it sad?
And still there never seems to be
A single penny left for me
That's too bad

In my dreams I have a plan
If I got me a wealthy man
I wouldn't have to work at all
I'd fool around and have a ball

Money, money, money
Must be funny
In the rich man's world
Money, money, money
Always sunny
In the rich man's world

Aha-aha
All the things I could do
If I had a little money
It's a rich man's world
It's a rich man's world

A man like that is hard to find
But I can't get him off my mind
Ain't it sad?
And if he happens to be free
I bet he wouldn't fancy me
That's too bad

So I must leave, I'll have to go
To Las Vegas or Monaco
And win a fortune in a game
My life will never be the same

Money, money, money
Must be funny
In the rich man's world
Money, money, money
Always sunny
In the rich man's world

Aha-aha
All the things I could do
If I had a little money
It's a rich man's world

Money, money, money
Must be funny
In the rich man's world
Money, money, money
Always sunny
In the rich man's world

Aha-aha
All the things I could do
If I had a little money
It's a rich man's world

It's a rich man's world

The Struggle and Dream: An Analysis of “Money Money Money”

A Relatable Tale of Hard Work

“Money Money Money” captures the universal experience of working hard yet struggling to get ahead. The lyrics open with a candid confession: “I work all night, I work all day to pay the bills I have to pay.” This line instantly connects with anyone who has felt the pressures of financial responsibility. Despite relentless effort, the protagonist always finds herself with “never a single penny left,” a sentiment that is both timeless and deeply relatable.

Escaping Reality Through Dreams

The chorus shifts into a dreamlike fantasy, where wealth offers the promise of freedom and happiness. The repeated line, “If I had a little money, it’s a rich man’s world,” highlights the longing for a life where money is no longer a concern. The protagonist imagines the carefree lifestyle of the wealthy, emphasizing not just financial comfort but the emotional ease that comes with it. The song’s infectious melody adds a sense of irony—while the lyrics dwell on hardship, the music feels almost celebratory, underscoring the fantasy of escaping financial woes.

Chasing Fortune and Facing Disappointment

The story continues with the protagonist considering improbable solutions: winning big in Las Vegas or Monaco, or finding a wealthy partner. Yet, even these dreams are tinged with skepticism and self-doubt, as she admits, “A man like that is hard to find… I bet he wouldn’t fancy me.” In the end, the song circles back to the reality that most people’s fortunes do not change overnight. The repetition of “It’s a rich man’s world” serves as a bittersweet reminder of the divide between dreams and reality.

Why “Money Money Money” Resonates

ABBA’s “Money Money Money” remains a powerful anthem about economic aspiration and the desire for a better life. Its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics ensure its enduring popularity, as listeners across generations recognize themselves in the song’s story. Ultimately, the song balances a sense of humor with genuine emotion, making it one of ABBA’s most memorable tracks.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: That’s Me by 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

I don't believe in fairy-tales 

Sweet nothings in my ear 

But I do believe in sympathy 

That's me, you see

Are you sure you wanna hear more 

Won't you have a drink with me 

Just to see you're not really sore 

I can't help my ways 

I'm just not the girl to hide my face 

I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry 

That's me

There's a special love 

Like an eagle flying with a dove 

I'll find it in the end 

If I keep on searchin', but until then 

I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry 

That's me

Unveiling Individuality: The Meaning Behind “That’s Me”

A Candid Self-Portrait

“That’s Me” is a song that stands out for its honest and unapologetic self-reflection. The lyrics offer a candid glimpse into the narrator’s true self, highlighting both strengths and vulnerabilities. From the opening lines, there’s a sense of hesitation: “Are you sure you wanna hear more?” This question sets the tone for a song that explores self-awareness and the courage it takes to present oneself authentically, even when it might not align with others’ expectations.

Rejecting Stereotypes and Embracing Freedom

The recurring refrain, “I’m Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you’d-marry, that’s me,” captures the spirit of independence at the heart of the song. The narrator rejects the traditional stereotypes of femininity—”mild and meek like the girl next door”—and instead embraces her complexity and independence. There’s an acknowledgment that her honesty, pride, and refusal to be someone’s “toy” may set her apart, but it’s a distinction she wears with pride.

Longing for Love, But On Her Own Terms

While the narrator values her freedom, there’s also a gentle vulnerability beneath the assertiveness. She confesses to feeling lonely at times and expresses hope for a love that is uniquely her own: “There’s a special love, like an eagle flying with a dove, I’ll find it in the end if I keep on searching.” This line beautifully illustrates the balance between self-sufficiency and the universal yearning for connection—a love that matches her spirit, rather than confines it.

Empowerment Through Authenticity

Ultimately, “That’s Me” is a celebration of self-acceptance. It encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, to be honest about who they are, and to seek relationships that honor that truth. The song’s narrative is empowering, reminding us that true happiness comes from being unapologetically ourselves.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Why Did It Have To Be Me

When you were lonely, you needed a man
Someone to lean on, well I understand
It's only natural
But why did it have to be me?

Nights can be empty, nights can be cold
So you were looking for someone to hold
That's only natural
But why did it have to be me?

I was so lonesome, I was blue
I couldn't help it, it had to be you and I
Always thought you knew the reason why
I only wanted a little love affair
Now I can see you are beginning to care
But baby, believe me
It's better to forget me

Men are the toys in the game that you play
When you get tired, you throw them away
That's only natural
But why did it have to be me?

Falling in love with a woman like you
Happens so quickly, there's nothing to do
It's only natural
But why did it have to be me?

I was so lonesome, I was blue
I couldn't help it, it had to be you and I
Always thought you knew the reason why
I only wanted a little love affair
Now I can see you are beginning to care
But baby, believe me
It's better to forget me

Understanding the Lyrics

A Story of Unexpected Connection

“Why Did It Have To Be Me” tells a bittersweet story of love found in loneliness. The narrator addresses a woman who sought comfort in a time of need, emphasizing the natural human desire for companionship. The repeated question, “But why did it have to be me?” reflects a sense of surprise and perhaps regret—suggesting that, while the connection was understandable, it was not entirely welcomed or expected by the narrator.

Bittersweet Realizations

As the song unfolds, the narrator reveals his own vulnerability: “I was so lonesome, I was blue.” What began as a simple search for solace has turned into something deeper, and now he sees that feelings are growing stronger on both sides. However, the narrator urges caution, advocating for distance before emotional entanglement grows further with, “It’s better to forget me.”

Love, Games, and Letting Go

The lyrics also explore the idea of love as a game, where emotional connections can be fleeting or transactional. When the narrator says, “Men are the toys in the game that you play,” he highlights the fleeting nature of some relationships and the pain that can come with them. Ultimately, the song is a candid reflection on the unpredictability of love, the longing for connection, and the wisdom of knowing when to walk away.

Song Credits

• Artist: ABBA
• Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
• Release Year: 1976
• Label: Polar Music

The city is a jungle. You'd better take care
Never walk alone after midnight
If you don't believe me, you'd better beware
Of me!

I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
People who fear me
Never come near me
I am the tiger

The city is a nightmare, a horrible dream
Some of us will dream it forever
Look around the corner, and try not to scream
It's me!

I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
People who fear me
Never come near me
I am the tiger

Yellow eyes are glowing like the neon lights
Yellow eyes, the spotlights of the city nights
I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
People who fear me
Never come near me
I am the tiger

The city is a prison. You'll never escape
You're forever trapped in the alleys
Look into the shadows, and you'll see the shape
Of me!

I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
People who fear me
Never come near me
I am the tiger
Yellow eyes are glowing like the neon lights
Yellow eyes, the spotlights of the city nights
I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
People who fear me
Never come near me
I am the tiger

And if I meet you
What if I eat you?
I am the tiger
I am behind you
I always find you
I am the tiger
Tiger!
(Tiger!)
Tiger!

Unpacking the Lyrics: The Urban Jungle

Tiger by ABBA presents the city as a treacherous, wild place, drawing comparisons to a jungle teeming with unseen dangers. The repeated warning, “You’d better take care,” sets a tone of suspense, cautioning listeners about the risks that lurk in the city after dark. The lyrics cleverly use the metaphor of a tiger—stealthy, powerful, and predatory—to personify the hidden threats that exist within urban environments.

The Stalker in the Shadows

The song shifts between the perspective of the city’s predator and its potential victims. Phrases like “I am behind you, I always find you” evoke a sense of being watched or followed, heightening the tension and sense of dread. The tiger becomes an omnipresent force, embodying fear itself. This haunting motif is amplified by references to glowing yellow eyes—mirroring both a predator’s gaze and the city’s neon lights—blending the natural and urban worlds.

Fear, Isolation, and the City

Throughout the lyrics, the city is depicted as both a nightmare and a prison. Lines such as “You’re forever trapped in the alleys” and “Some of us will dream it forever” suggest a cycle of fear and entrapment that’s hard to escape. The relentless repetition of “I am the tiger” gives the sense of an inescapable threat, making the listener feel the city’s claustrophobic grip.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The tiger represents more than just physical danger; it symbolizes the anxieties and challenges of city life. The warning not to walk alone and the allusion to people who “fear me, never come near me” could reflect the social isolation and vigilance that urban living sometimes demands. The song’s energy and imagery evoke a cinematic sense of suspense, making it both memorable and thought-provoking.

Song Credits

Song: Tiger
Artist: ABBA
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Fernando by ABBA

Can you hear the drums Fernando?

I remember long ago another starry night like this

In the firelight Fernando

You were humming to yourself and softly strumming your guitar

I could hear the distant drums

And sounds of bugle calls were coming from afar

They were closer now Fernando

Every hour every minute seemed to last eternally

I was so afraid Fernando

We were young and full of life and none of us prepared to die

And I'm not ashamed to say

The roar of guns and cannons almost made me cry

There was something in the air that night

The stars were bright, Fernando

They were shining there for you and me

For liberty, Fernando

Though we never thought that we could lose

There's no regret

If I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando

If I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando

Now we're old and grey Fernando

Since many years I haven't seen a rifle in your hand

Can you hear the drums Fernando?

Do you still recall the fateful night we crossed the Rio Grande?

I can see it in your eyes

How proud you were to fight for freedom in this land

There was something in the air that night

The stars were bright, Fernando

They were shining there for you and me

For liberty, Fernando

Though we never thought that we could lose

There's no regret

If I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando

There was something in the air that night

The stars were bright, Fernando

They were shining there for you and me

For liberty, Fernando

Though we never thought that we could lose

There's no regret

If I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando

Yes, if I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando

If I had to do the same again

I would, my friend, Fernando...

Exploring the Story Behind “Fernando”

A Night Remembered: Nostalgia and Reflection

“Fernando” opens with a gentle question: “Can you hear the drums, Fernando?” This evocative line instantly sets a reflective mood, drawing listeners into a memory of a significant night long ago. Through starry skies and distant drums, the narrator recalls a time of youthful innocence, camaraderie, and the looming presence of war. The song’s gentle melody pairs seamlessly with its lyrical nostalgia, painting a vivid picture of two friends sharing an unforgettable moment in history.

The Pain and Glory of Battle

As the lyrics unfold, the sense of danger and fear becomes palpable. The characters, young and unprepared, are caught in the chaos of conflict. ABBA masterfully captures the emotional turmoil of facing mortality, as well as the courage required to stand for liberty. The repeated cries of “There was something in the air that night, the stars were bright, Fernando” serve as an anthem for hope and resilience amidst adversity. The song acknowledges the pain of war—the roar of guns and cannons—but also the pride and sense of purpose that comes from fighting for freedom.

Enduring Friendship and Unwavering Regret

Years later, the characters have grown old, yet the memories remain vivid. The narrator wonders if Fernando still hears the drums and remembers the night they crossed the Rio Grande together. The lyrics highlight a deep and enduring friendship, built on shared ideals and sacrifices. The recurring line, “If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando,” underlines the absence of regret and the strength of their bond—suggesting that, despite the losses and hardships, their fight was meaningful and justified.

Universal Themes: Freedom, Memory, and Loyalty

“Fernando” resonates with listeners around the world because it encapsulates universal themes of freedom, remembrance, and unwavering loyalty. ABBA’s storytelling, combined with their melodic sensibility, transforms the song into a poignant tribute to those who stand together in the face of adversity. Whether interpreted as a literal tale of revolution or a metaphor for any struggle, “Fernando” remains an enduring classic that continues to move audiences of all generations.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Happy Hawaii

Early this morning I drove in the rain
Out to the airport to get on the plane
Hey Honolulu, we’re going to happy Hawaii

Alice has been there, she said it was fun
Swimming and surfing, enjoying the sun
Hey Honololu, we’re going to happy Hawaii

After all I’ve had to go through
I’m making no plans (making no plans oh-ooh)
But I, but I believe love gives me a second chance

Guess I’ve been working a little too hard
Need a vacation, I’ll send you a card
From Honolulu, a greeting from happy Hawaii

It’s so exciting, why should I pretend
In a few hours the plane will descend
Hey Honolulu, we’re going to happy Hawaii
I can imagine the beach and the sand
Walking with someone and holding his hand
Hey Honolulu, we’re going to happy Hawaii

After all I’ve had to go through
I’m making no plans (making no plans oh-ooh)
But I, but I believe love gives me a second chance, mmm

I’ve got a feeling the dream will come true
Somebody’s waiting and I’ll forget you
Hey Honolulu, we’re going to happy Hawaii

Escaping to Paradise: A Song Analysis

Dreaming of a Fresh Start

“Happy Hawaii” captures a longing for escape, renewal, and the promise of happiness. The song opens with the narrator embarking on a journey, leaving behind rainy weather and personal troubles for the sunny shores of Honolulu. This vibrant setting becomes a symbol of hope and transformation.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

The lyrics reflect a character who has endured hardships and is ready for change. Rather than planning every detail, the protagonist adopts a carefree attitude, embracing the spontaneity of travel and the healing power of a new environment. The repeated line, “I’m making no plans,” suggests a release from past anxieties and a willingness to embrace whatever the future holds.

Love and Second Chances

Beyond the allure of Hawaii’s beaches, there’s an undercurrent of personal growth. The song hints at past heartbreak, but also at the belief in new beginnings: “I believe love gives me a second chance.” As the narrator imagines walking on the sand with someone new, the journey becomes both literal and metaphorical—a quest for both rest and renewed love.

Celebrating Adventure and Optimism

“Happy Hawaii” is ultimately a celebration of taking chances and seeking joy. The promise of sending a postcard and the anticipation of descending into Hawaii reflect excitement and optimism. The idea that “somebody’s waiting and I’ll forget you” closes the song on a note of hope, suggesting that moving forward brings healing and happiness.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Eagle by ABBA

They came flying from far away, now I'm under their spell

I love hearing the stories that they tell

They've seen places beyond my land and they've found new horizons

They speak strangely but I understand



And I dream I'm an eagle

And I dream I can spread my wings

Flying high, high, I'm a bird in the sky

I'm an eagle that rides on the breeze

High, high, what a feeling to fly

Over mountains and forests and seas

And to go anywhere that I please



As all good friends we talk all night, and we fly wing to wing

I have questions and they know everything

There's no limit to what I feel, we climb higher and higher

Am I dreaming or is it all real?



Is it true I'm an eagle?

Is it true I can spread my wings?

Flying high, high, I'm a bird in the sky

(I'm an eagle)

I'm an eagle that rides on the breeze

High, high, what a feeling to fly

(What a feeling)

Over mountains and forests and seas

And to go anywhere that I please



And I dream I'm an eagle

And I dream I can spread my wings

Flying high, high, I'm a bird in the sky

(I'm an eagle) 

I'm an eagle that rides on the breeze

High, high, what a feeling to fly

(What a feeling) 

Over mountains and forests and seas

Flying high, high, I'm a bird in the sky

(I'm an eagle)

I'm an eagle that rides on the breeze

High, high, what a feeling to fly

(What a feeling) 

Over mountains and forests and seas

And to go anywhere that I please

Exploring the Themes of “Eagle”

The Call of Freedom and Adventure

“Eagle” by ABBA is a song that soars with imagery of flight, freedom, and the boundless possibilities that life has to offer. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator being captivated by mysterious visitors — the eagles — who have traveled from faraway places. Their tales spark the narrator’s imagination, awakening a desire to explore and discover new horizons.

Dreaming Beyond Boundaries

Throughout the song, the eagle serves as a powerful symbol of liberation and transcendence. The recurring dream of becoming an eagle and spreading wings signifies the universal longing to break free from limitations, both physical and emotional. Flying high above “mountains and forests and seas,” the singer experiences a profound sense of exhilaration and autonomy, echoing the joy of journeying into the unknown.

Connection and Shared Wisdom

As the lyrics unfold, there is an emphasis on companionship and learning. The lines about talking “all night” and flying “wing to wing” suggest a deep bond between the narrator and the eagles. These figures not only inspire, but also guide, answering questions and sharing wisdom gained from their travels. This motif highlights the importance of friendships and mentors in helping us realize our own potential and dreams.

Blurring the Line Between Dream and Reality

The song blurs the boundary between dream and reality, as the narrator questions whether the experience is real. This ambiguity reinforces the song’s core message: the journey to freedom and self-discovery often begins in our imagination, but its impact can be deeply felt in real life.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1977
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Gonna Sing You My Lovesong

You say she's been mad at you

Then you say you'll be patient, ooh

Still I see that she makes you blue

Come on, I'll give you consolation

Gonna sing you my love song, gonna bring you some light

Gonna make you feel happy every day of your life

Gonna sing you my love song, gonna make it all right

You're all I ever need, my darling

Just to be where you wanna be

So much fun we could have then, hmm

To be yours for eternity

What a miracle to happen

Gonna sing you my lovesong, gonna sing it for you

Gonna give you sweet loving, gonna give myself too

Gonna sing you my lovesong, when I think about you

I know she doesn't make it easy

'Cause you don't please her like you please me

You're my life, you're my angel

You're my first, you're my last

Would she care if you lingered

For another night

Wanna hold you tight

We could make it right

Gonna sing you my lovesong, gonna bring you some light

Gonna make you feel happy every day of your life

Gonna sing you my lovesong, gonna make it all right

I know she doesn't make it easy

Gonna sing you my lovesong, gonna sing it for you

Gonna give you sweet loving, gonna give myself too

Gonna sing you my lovesong, when I think about you

You're all I ever need, my darling

And I would love to sing my lovesong

For you

Heartfelt Comfort: A Love Song’s Embrace

“Gonna Sing You My Lovesong” by ABBA is a tender expression of love and reassurance, set against the backdrop of emotional complexity. The lyrics paint a picture of someone reaching out to a loved one who is troubled by difficulties in another relationship. The singer offers solace and devotion, seeking to replace sorrow with happiness through the simple yet profound act of singing a love song.

Understanding the Lyrics

The song opens with empathy, as the narrator recognizes the pain caused by another person: “You say she’s been mad at you… Still I see that she makes you blue.” Rather than offering criticism, the singer gently proposes comfort and understanding. The recurring chorus—”Gonna sing you my love song, gonna bring you some light… Gonna make you feel happy every day of your life”—underscores the nurturing and supportive nature of this love.

Throughout the verses, there’s a strong sense of commitment and hope for a future together, with lines like “To be yours for eternity / What a miracle to happen.” The narrator believes in the transformative power of their affection, hoping to create joy and offer a true partnership. The love described here is selfless, offering not just consolation but also the singer’s whole self.

A Song of Devotion and Hope

The emotional core of the song is its promise: even when love elsewhere falters, the narrator is steadfast—”You’re all I ever need, my darling.” The lyrics address the complexities of relationships, acknowledging that not all love is reciprocated equally, but offering a haven in the form of unwavering support and tenderness.

By repeating the promise to “sing you my lovesong,” the track captures the healing potential of love and music. It is both an invitation and a declaration—a vow to always be there, to bring happiness and light, no matter the circumstances.

Song Credits

Song: Gonna Sing You My Lovesong
Artist: ABBA
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1975
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Suzy-Hang-Around

Suzy was nine and I was ten

Right at the time when boys like to think they're men

She used to follow us at school

We really thought that she was a little fool

And one day we said to her

We don't want to hurt you girl

But you'd better

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Suzy went home to Mama's arms

Mama said "Look, she's never done you no harm

So get off her back and let her be

Why can't you play together in harmony?"

We really didn't know what to say

But as soon as she went away

We laughed and said

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Yes you'd better

Look for a friend of your own, Suzy-hang-around

Better come back when you're grown, Suzy-hang-around

Nobody wants you around here and that's for sure

So get off our playground and stay away

That's all that we've got to say

Suzy-hang-around

Childhood Dynamics and the Pain of Exclusion

“Suzy-Hang-Around” by ABBA is a poignant exploration of childhood interactions, focusing on the theme of exclusion and innocence. The song narrates a story from the perspective of a young boy, recalling the time when he and his friends dismissed Suzy, a younger girl who wished to join their group. The lyrics delve into the everyday realities of playground dynamics, where lines are often drawn not out of malice, but out of misunderstanding and the desire to fit in.

Lyrics Analysis: Innocence, Rejection, and Growing Up

From the very first lines, the song sets the scene: “Suzy was nine and I was ten / Right at the time when boys like to think they’re men.” These words underline the transitional period of late childhood, a time when children start forming cliques and asserting their independence. Suzy’s attempts to join in are met with resistance, not because of anything she’s done, but simply because she doesn’t quite fit the group’s expectations. The chorus, with its repeated refrain “Suzy-hang-around,” carries a bittersweet tone, highlighting the pain of being told to find friends elsewhere.

In the second verse, Suzy’s mother intervenes, urging understanding and kindness: “Why can’t you play together in harmony?” This moment brings a touch of wisdom and compassion, contrasting with the children’s thoughtless exclusion. Yet, the lesson is lost on the group, who quickly return to their previous attitude as soon as Suzy leaves. The song captures the complexities of childhood socialization, where empathy is still developing and exclusion can leave lasting marks.

The Universal Experience of Belonging

“Suzy-Hang-Around” resonates with listeners because it taps into a universal experience—the longing to belong and the pain of being left out. ABBA’s storytelling shines through, using simple language to evoke nostalgia and reflection. The song serves as a gentle reminder to look back at our own youthful actions with empathy and to foster inclusion wherever possible.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1973
Label: Polar Music