Author: lyricspedia

Lyrics: My Mama Said by ABBA

Tried to sneak out without saying

With my loudest record playing

Ooh, my mama said, "Look at this, you haven't done your bed"

My mama said, "That's a thing that you should do instead"

Yeah, I did what she had told me

Dying for my friend to hold me

Ooh, my mama said, "Try and get one thing into your head"

My mama said, "Pa and me, we give you room and bed"

How I wanna live my life

Wanna live my life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

In the morning she said "Listen"

Ooh, I felt like in a prison

Yeah, my mama said, "I know you've been out again with Fred"

(My mama said)

My mama said, "Don't you lie, your cheeks are blushing red"

(My mama said)

Oh I wanna live my life

Wanna live my life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

I said, "I can live without him.

How I wish you wouldn't doubt him."

Oh oh, my mama said, "If you want to hurt me go ahead"

(My mama said)

My mama said, "I suppose you'd rather see me dead"

(My mama said)

Oh I wanna live my life

Wanna live my life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

La-la-la, la-la-la, life

[fade]

Exploring the Meaning Behind “My Mama Said”

Parent-Child Tensions in Everyday Life

“My Mama Said” dives into the familiar landscape of teenage rebellion and parental concern. The song opens with the protagonist attempting to sneak out, only to be confronted by her mother’s reminders about household responsibilities. The recurring motif of chores—like making the bed—symbolizes the everyday push-and-pull between a young person’s desire for independence and a parent’s expectations for responsibility. This relatable scenario sets the tone for the rest of the song, capturing the frustration and longing felt by many teenagers.

Navigating Love and Family Expectations

Beneath the domestic squabbles lies a deeper conflict: the mother’s suspicion about her daughter’s relationship with “Fred.” The lyrics capture the anxiety, judgment, and lack of understanding that often arise when a parent disapproves of a child’s romantic choices. The protagonist pleads for her mother to trust her, asserting her right to “live my life.” This central refrain—punctuated by the catchy “la-la-la, life”—emphasizes the universal desire for autonomy and self-expression, even when it clashes with family values.

Emotional Drama and Resolution

The dialogue between mother and daughter intensifies as emotions run high. The mother, feeling hurt and perhaps betrayed, utters dramatic lines like “If you want to hurt me go ahead” and “I suppose you’d rather see me dead.” These words reflect the emotional weight that family disagreements can carry, illustrating how love, worry, and generational divides can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and exaggerated responses. Despite the tension, the song maintains an upbeat, almost playful melody, suggesting that these conflicts are a natural part of growing up and forging one’s own path.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Artist: ABBA
Release Year: 1975
Label: Polar Music

Lyrics: Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)

Oh, my love it makes me sad.
Why did things turn out so bad?
Was it just a dream, everything we did, everything we had?

Baby, give me one more
Dance while the music still goes on
Don’t think about tomorrow
Dance and forget our time is gone
Tonight’s a night we borrow.
Let’s make it a memory, a night of our own
A thing to remember when we’re all alone
So dance, it’s our way to say goodbye

Yes, all we have to do is
Dance while the music still goes on
This is no time for crying
Dance, don’t you hear them play our song
God knows that we’ve been trying
But we didn’t make it ’cause nothing’s the same
We just couldn’t help it, nobody’s to blame
So dance while the music still goes on
And let it be our last goodbye

Yet it seems to make me sad.
Why did things turn out so bad?
Was is just a dream, everything we did, everything we had?

Baby, give me one last
Dance while the music still goes on
Just like the night I met you
Dance and believe me, when you’re gone
You know I won’t forget you
Our love was a snowbird, it’s flying away
You tell me it’s over, what more can I say?
So dance while the music still goes on
It’s gonna be our last goodbye

Dance while the music still goes on
Don’t think about tomorrow
Dance and forget our time is gone
Tonight’s a night we borrow.
Let’s make it a memory, a night of our own
A thing to remember when we’re all alone
So dance while the music still goes on
And let it be our last goodbye

Dance while the music still goes on
This is no time for crying
Dance, don’t you hear them play our song
God knows that we’ve been trying
Dance while the music still goes on
Just like the night I met you
Dance and believe me, when you’re gone
You know I won’t forget you

[fade]

Exploring Heartbreak and Farewell Through Dance

Embracing the Final Moments

“Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)” is a poignant reflection on love’s ending. The song captures the bittersweet emotions that come with the realization that a once-cherished relationship has reached its conclusion. Rather than focusing on regret or sorrow, the lyrics encourage the couple to savor their last moments together, dancing as the music plays. It’s a powerful metaphor for making the most of the time left, even as the future grows uncertain.

The Power of Memory and Letting Go

Throughout the song, the act of dancing becomes a way to create a lasting memory—a final, shared experience that can be cherished when both are alone. Lines like “Let’s make it a memory, a night of our own / A thing to remember when we’re all alone” illustrate the desire to part on a positive note, transforming farewell into something beautiful rather than solely painful.

Accepting Change and Moving Forward

Rather than assigning blame for the relationship’s end, the lyrics accept that “nothing’s the same” and that “nobody’s to blame.” This acceptance is central to the song’s emotional maturity. The refrain to “dance while the music still goes on” serves as a gentle reminder to live in the present, to find solace in togetherness, even as parting becomes inevitable. The metaphor of love as a “snowbird” flying away further underscores the theme of impermanence and the natural passing of seasons in life and love.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Performed by: ABBA
Release Year: 1974
Label: Polar Music

Honey Honey – Lyrics

Honey honey, how you thrill me
Ah-hah, honey honey
Honey honey, nearly kill me
Ah-hah, honey honey

I’d heard about you before
I wanted to know some more
And now I know what they mean
You’re a love machine
Oh, you make me dizzy

Honey honey, let me feel it
Ah-hah, honey honey
Honey honey, don’t conceal it
Ah-hah, honey honey

The way that you kiss goodnight
(The way that you kiss me goodnight)
The way that you hold me tight
(The way that you’re holding me tight)
I feel like I wanna sing
When you do your thing

I don’t wanna hurt you, baby, I don’t wanna see you cry
So stay on the ground, girl, you better not get too high
But I’m gonna stick to you, boy, you’ll never get rid of me
There’s no other place in this world where I rather would be

Honey honey, touch me, baby
Ah-hah, honey honey
Honey honey, hold me, baby
Ah-hah, honey honey

You look like a movie star
(You look like a movie star)
But I know just who you are
(I know just who you are)
And, honey, to say the least
You’re a doggone beast

So stay on the ground, girl, you better not get too high
There’s no other place in this world where I rather would be

Honey honey, how you thrill me
Ah-hah, honey honey
Honey honey, nearly kill me
Ah-hah, honey honey

I heard about you before
(I heard about you before)
I wanted to know some more
(I wanted to know you some more)
And now I know what they mean
You’re a love machine
Oh you make me dizzy

Honey honey, how you thrill me…

Exploring the Sweetness of “Honey Honey”

A Playful Declaration of Love

“Honey Honey” by ABBA is a song that overflows with playfulness and youthful excitement. The lyrics capture the irresistible allure and rush of falling in love, likening the feeling to being dizzy with delight. The repeated use of “honey honey” acts as a term of endearment, highlighting the sweetness of the relationship. Each line is infused with a sense of joy and amazement at discovering someone special, as the narrator confesses to being completely enamored by their partner’s affection.

Unfiltered Emotion and Desire

The song doesn’t shy away from expressing physical attraction and longing. Lines like “let me feel it” and “don’t conceal it” reveal a desire for genuine, unguarded intimacy. The way the narrator describes kisses and embraces emphasizes not just romance, but a deep longing for closeness and connection. There’s also a playful warning—”you better not get too high”—suggesting the intensity of the relationship can be overwhelming, but ultimately, the narrator declares there’s nowhere else they’d rather be.

Between Fantasy and Reality

ABBA cleverly balances fantasy with reality in “Honey Honey.” The partner is described as looking like a movie star, but the narrator insists they see the real person underneath the glamorous façade. This blend of admiration and authenticity gives the song a relatable edge, making it more than just a simple love song. It’s about appreciating someone for both their charm and their true self.

Song Credits

“Honey Honey” was written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson. The song was released in 1974 by Polar Music. As one of ABBA’s early hits, it showcases the group’s iconic ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt, relatable lyrics.

Lyrics: Watch Out

You move like a flame of fire
Your eyes like a flash of lightning
The answer to all desire
And I’m gonna tame you, wild thing

You’d better watch out
I said you’d better watch out, watch out
Anywhere you go I’ll find you watch out
I’ll be staying close behind you

And I’m tired of waiting
Yes, it’s driving me crazy
And my patience is fading
Oh, you’d better watch out
I said, “You’d better watch out”

It’s been kind of funny lately
You act like I was a stranger
I think you’re beginning to hate me
But then you’re a girl in danger

You’d better watch out
Ooh, I said you’d better watch out watch out
Anywhere you go I’ll find you watch out
I’ll be staying close behind you

And I’ve tired of waiting
Yes, it’s driving me crazy
And my patience is fading
So, you’d better watch out
Yes, I said, “You’d better watch out”
Watch out, watch out

And I’m tired of waiting
Yes, it’s driving me crazy
And my patience is fading
I said, “You’d better watch out”
Oh, girl you’d better watch out
Ah, you’d better watch out
Ooh, ah, you’d better watch out

Analysis and Interpretation

The Intensity of Desire

From the opening lines, “You move like a flame of fire / Your eyes like a flash of lightning,” the lyrics evoke an image of uncontrollable attraction and passionate longing. The narrator is captivated by the subject’s allure, likening their movements and gaze to powerful natural forces. This passionate imagery sets the tone for a song fueled by desire and determination.

A Pursuit Driven by Obsession

The repeated warning, “You’d better watch out,” and the lines “Anywhere you go I’ll find you / I’ll be staying close behind you,” suggest an intense, almost obsessive pursuit. The narrator’s patience is wearing thin, and there’s a sense of urgency as they grow tired of waiting. The persistence and proximity described in the lyrics create a mood that is both thrilling and slightly unsettling, blurring the lines between romantic pursuit and fixation.

Uncertainty and Tension

Midway through the song, the tone shifts: “It’s been kind of funny lately / You act like I was a stranger / I think you’re beginning to hate me / But then you’re a girl in danger.” Here, the relationship becomes more complicated. The subject seems to be pulling away or growing wary, introducing feelings of rejection and frustration. The phrase “girl in danger” adds a sense of vulnerability, further heightening the emotional tension within the song.

Repetition as Emphasis

The song’s chorus is repeated throughout, each time with increasing intensity. This repetition underscores the narrator’s growing impatience and emotional strain. The refrain acts as both a warning and a declaration, reinforcing the central theme of relentless pursuit and the emotional stakes involved.

Song Credits

Song Title: Watch Out
Songwriters: [Insert Songwriter Names Here]
Release Year: [Insert Release Year Here]
Label: [Insert Label Name Here]

Lyrics: What About Livingstone

Went to buy me a paper at the local news-stand
And then I heard them laugh and say
Look, they're gonna go flying way up to the moon now
Hey, what's it good for anyway?
So I said
Fellas, like to ask you a thing if I may

What about Livingstone?
What about all those men?
Who have sacrificed their lives to lead the way
Tell me, wasn't it worth the while
Travelling up the Nile
Putting themselves on test
Didn't that help the rest?
Wasn't it worth it then?
What about Livingstone?

And all of those fellas at the local news-stand
Didn't know what to answer or what to say
So I told them about him, that he was just like
One of those spacemen in his way
And if you laugh at them
Then there's only a thing I can say

What about Livingstone?
What about all those men?
Who have sacrificed their lives to lead the way
Tell me, wasn't it worth the while
Travelling up the Nile
Putting themselves on test
Didn't that help the rest?
Wasn't it worth it then?

What about Livingstone?
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
What about all those men?
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
Who have sacrificed their lives to lead the way
Tell me, wasn't it worth the while
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
Travelling up the Nile
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
Putting themselves on test
Didn't that help the rest?
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
Wasn't it worth it then?
What about Livingstone?
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)
What about all those men?
(Didn't he do it, well didn't he?)

[fade]

A Celebration of Exploration: Song Analysis

Honoring the Spirit of Discovery

“What About Livingstone” by ABBA is a thoughtful reflection on the value of exploration and the courage it takes to venture into the unknown. The song begins with a simple encounter at a newsstand, where the narrator overhears cynicism about the significance of space exploration. This everyday moment prompts a deeper conversation about the importance of human curiosity and the legacy of those who dared to go beyond the familiar.

Drawing Parallels Across Generations

The lyrics center around the figure of David Livingstone, the famed 19th-century explorer, as a symbol of all those who have risked everything for the sake of discovery. By asking, “What about Livingstone? What about all those men?” the song draws a direct line between past explorers and contemporary pioneers, like astronauts. It suggests that each era has its own frontiers, and the courage to cross them is what drives humanity forward.

Challenging Skepticism

The narrator challenges the skepticism of the bystanders, urging them to consider the sacrifices made by explorers like Livingstone. The repeated question, “Wasn’t it worth it then?” asks listeners to reflect on the broader consequences of exploration—how the bravery of a few can benefit the many. The song underscores the idea that great achievements often face doubt and ridicule before their true value is recognized.

A Timeless Message of Inspiration

Through its catchy melody and poignant lyrics, “What About Livingstone” encourages us to honor those who have shaped our understanding of the world. It reminds us that progress often comes from questioning the status quo and daring to dream beyond perceived limits. The song is both a tribute to explorers of the past and a rallying cry for future generations to keep reaching for new horizons.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1974
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

Lyrics: Waterloo by ABBA

My, my

At Waterloo Napoleon did surrender

Oh, yeah

And I have met my destiny in quite a similar way

The history book on the shelf

Is always repeating itself

Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war

Waterloo, promise to love you forevermore

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

My, my

I tried to hold you back, but you were stronger

Oh, yeah

And now it seems my only chance is giving up the fight

And how could I ever refuse?

I feel like I win when I lose

Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war

Waterloo, promise to love you forevermore

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

So how could I ever refuse?

I feel like I win when I lose

Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

Woo-ooh-ooh-ooh

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Woah, woah, woah, woah, Waterloo

Finally facing my Waterloo

Woo-ooh-ooh-ooh

Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you

Analyzing the Lyrics of “Waterloo”

A Historical Metaphor for Love

“Waterloo” by ABBA cleverly uses the famous historical event—the Battle of Waterloo—as a metaphor for surrendering in love. The song’s narrator draws a parallel between Napoleon’s defeat and their own experience of falling for someone, suggesting that just as Napoleon could not evade his fate, neither can the singer resist the pull of love.

Love as a Battle

Throughout the song, phrases like “I was defeated, you won the war” and “couldn’t escape if I wanted to” paint love as a form of battle. However, the defeat here is not bitter; instead, it is embraced. The narrator recognizes that surrendering to love feels more like a victory than a loss. This theme is reinforced by lines such as “I feel like I win when I lose,” highlighting the joy and liberation found in giving in to genuine emotion.

Cycles and Destiny

The reference to “the history book on the shelf / is always repeating itself” suggests that the experience of falling in love—and perhaps feeling powerless in its presence—is a timeless, universal story. The song presents the idea that love, like history, has patterns that people inevitably follow, making the narrator’s surrender feel both fated and shared across time.

Final Reflections

“Waterloo” stands out for its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, making the theme of surrender feel joyful rather than tragic. The song’s ability to turn a significant historical defeat into a celebration of love’s inevitability is part of what makes it a pop classic.

Song Credits

“Waterloo” was written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson. The song was released in 1974 on the Polar Music label. It famously won the Eurovision Song Contest that year and became one of ABBA’s signature hits.

Lyrics: Mamma Mia by ABBA

I've been cheated by you since I don't know when

So I made up my mind, it must come to an end

Look at me now, will I ever learn?

I don't know how but I suddenly lose control

There's a fire within my soul

Just one look and I can hear a bell ring

One more look and I forget everything, w-o-o-o-oh

Mamma mia, here I go again

My my, how can I resist you?

Mamma mia, does it show again?

My my, just how much I've missed you

Yes, I've been brokenhearted

Blue since the day we parted

Why, why did I ever let you go?

Mamma mia, now I really know

My my, I could never let you go

I've been angry and sad about things that you do

I can't count all the times that I've told you we're through

And when you go, when you slam the door

I think you know that you won't be away too long

You know that I'm not that strong

Just one look and I can hear a bell ring

One more look and I forget everything, w-o-o-o-oh

Mamma mia, here I go again

My my, how can I resist you?

Mamma mia, does it show again?

My my, just how much I've missed you

Yes, I've been brokenhearted

Blue since the day we parted

Why, why did I ever let you go?

Mamma mia, even if I say

Bye bye, leave me now or never

mamma mia, it's a game we play

Bye bye doesn't mean forever

Mamma mia, here I go again

My my, how can I resist you?

Mamma mia, does it show again?

My my, just how much I've missed you

Yes, I've been brokenhearted

Blue since the day we parted

Why, why did I ever let you go

Mamma mia, now I really know

My my, I could never let you go

Themes of Heartbreak and Irresistible Attraction

“Mamma Mia” is a pop classic that captures the rollercoaster of emotions after a breakup. Right from the opening lines, the singer expresses both betrayal and the irresistible pull of returning to a former lover. The repeated phrase “Mamma mia, here I go again” highlights an ongoing cycle of separation and reunion, revealing a deep struggle between independence and longing.

Cycles of Love and Letting Go

The lyrics reflect the complexity of relationships, especially when emotions are strong and conflicting. The protagonist tries to move on, yet admits to “losing control” and being unable to resist the other person. The references to being “brokenhearted” and “blue since the day we parted” suggest lingering sadness, while the playful tone of “it’s a game we play” adds a bittersweet layer, as if breakups and makeups are part of the dance of love.

The Power of Nostalgia and Forgiveness

With each chorus, the longing intensifies. The lines “One more look and I forget everything” and “I could never let you go” embody the magnetic pull of nostalgia and hope, even after disappointment. The song balances vulnerability and resilience, making it relatable to anyone who has struggled to let go of someone important. Ultimately, “Mamma Mia” endures because it turns the pain of heartbreak into an energetic and uplifting anthem.

Song Credits

“Mamma Mia” was written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson. It was originally released by ABBA in 1975 on the Polar Music label.

Lyrics: Hey Hey Helen by ABBA

So at last you're free
It's the way you wanted it to be
And the price you paid
To become a woman of today
Is it worth the pain to see the children cry
Does it hurt when they ask for Daddy

Hey hey Helen
Now you live on your own
Hey hey Helen
Can you make it alone
(Yes you can)

So you're free at last
And beginning to forget the past
Does it make you sad
When you think about the life you ha-ha-had
But you're right, you had to take a second chance
So you fight to find your freedom

Hey hey Helen
Now you live on your own
Hey hey Helen
Can you make it alone
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)
What's the matter with you
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)
Don't you know what to do
(Yes you do)
(Ahah, yes you do yes you do)
(Ahah, yes you do yes you do)

Hey hey Helen
Now you live on your own
Hey hey Helen
Can you make it alone
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)
What's the matter with you
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)
Don't you know what to do
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)
Now you live on your own
Hey hey Helen (hey hey Helen)

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Finding Freedom and Facing Reality

“Hey Hey Helen” by ABBA is a powerful song that delves into the emotional complexities of independence, single parenthood, and personal transformation. The lyrics begin with a declaration of newfound freedom: “So at last you’re free / It’s the way you wanted it to be.” However, this liberation comes with a cost, as the narrator questions whether it’s worth the pain, especially when children are affected by the absence of their father.

The Struggles of Starting Over

The song continues to explore Helen’s journey as she adjusts to life on her own. There’s a mix of empathy and challenge in the repeated refrain: “Hey hey Helen, now you live on your own, can you make it alone?” The supportive “Yes you can” suggests encouragement, but the verses also acknowledge the sadness and difficulty of moving on from the past. The lyrics recognize the courage it takes to start over and the internal struggle to balance newfound freedom with the emotional toll of change.

Empowerment and Self-Discovery

Despite the doubts and lingering questions, “Hey Hey Helen” ultimately carries a message of empowerment. The lines “Don’t you know what to do? (Yes you do)” offer reassurance and validation. The song recognizes Helen’s strength and ability to navigate her new reality, highlighting the resilience needed to overcome personal and societal expectations.

Song Credits

Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Release Year: 1975
Label: Polar Music