On And On And On – ABBA Lyrics
I was at a party and this fella said to me "Something bad is happening, I'm sure you do agree People care for nothing, no respect for human rights Evil times are coming, we are in for darker nights" I said, "Who are you to talk about impending doom?" He got kinda wary as he looked around the room He said, "I'm a minister, a big shot in the state" I said, "I just can't believe it, boy I think it's great Brother can you tell me what is right and what is wrong?" He said, "Keep on rocking baby, 'til the night is gone" On and on and on Keep on rocking baby 'Til the night is gone On and on and on 'Til the night is gone On and on and on Keep on rocking baby 'Til the night is gone On and on and on 'Til the night is gone Over in the corner I could see this other guy He was kinda flirty, he was giving me the eye So I took advantage of the fact that I'm a star Shook my hair and took a casual stroll up to the bar And as sure as hell this guy was coming up to me He said, "Who am I and who are you and who are we? What's our situation, do we have some time for us?" I said I was not exactly waiting for the bus He said, "If you're going somewhere can I come along?" I said, "Keep on rocking baby, 'til the night is gone" On and on and on Keep on rocking baby 'Til the night is gone On and on and on 'Til the night is gone On and on and on Keep on rocking baby 'Til the night is gone On and on and on 'Til the night is gone [Extra Video Verse] Standing up is scary if you think you're gonna fall Like a Humpty Dumpty, 'fraid of falling off the wall I say if you ever want to know what's going on Gotta keep on rockin baby till the night is gone [repeat chorus and fade]
Exploring the Meaning of “On And On And On”
A Party with a Deeper Message
ABBA’s “On And On And On” kicks off in the lively setting of a party, but beneath the surface, the song explores the themes of societal anxiety and escapism. The lyrics introduce a conversation with a partygoer who laments the state of the world, expressing concerns about human rights, respect, and looming “darker nights.” This character, unexpectedly revealed to be a government minister, symbolizes authority figures who voice worries but offer little guidance—his only advice is to “keep on rocking baby, ’til the night is gone.”
Embracing the Moment
Throughout the song, the refrain “on and on and on, keep on rocking baby, ’til the night is gone” serves as both an anthem of living in the moment and a subtle critique of indifference. Instead of dwelling on overwhelming problems, the protagonist chooses to enjoy the present, embracing the energy of the night and companionship found at the party. This sentiment is reinforced during a flirty exchange at the bar, where questions about identity and purpose are met with lighthearted deflection and the recurring call to dance and celebrate.
The Humpty Dumpty Verse: Facing Fears
The extra video verse introduces a playful yet insightful metaphor: standing up for oneself can be scary, like Humpty Dumpty fearing a fall. ABBA encourages listeners to push through uncertainty and keep moving forward, using music and dance as a means of resilience and connection.
A Timeless Celebration of Life
Ultimately, “On And On And On” is both a critique of complacency and a celebration of seizing the moment. The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus invite listeners to let go of their worries, at least for the duration of the night, and keep on dancing despite the troubles of the world. It’s a reminder that sometimes, joy and music are themselves quiet acts of resistance.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
Released: 1980
Label: Polar Music