Lyrics: Voulez-Vous by ABBA
People everywhere A sense of expectation hanging in the air Giving out a spark Across the room your eyes are glowing in the dark And here we go again, we know the start, we know the end Masters of the scene We've done it all before and now we're back to get some more You know what I mean Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Take it now or leave it (ah-ha) Now is all we get (ah-ha) Nothing promised, no regrets Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Ain't no big decision (ah-ha) You know what to do (ah-ha) La question c'est voulez-vous Voulez-vous... I know what you think "The girl means business so I'll offer her a drink" Looking mighty proud I see you leave your table, pushing through the crowd I'm really glad you came, you know the rules, you know the game Master of the scene We've done it all before and now we're back to get some more You know what I mean Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Take it now or leave it (ah-ha) Now is all we get (ah-ha) Nothing promised, no regrets Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Ain't no big decision (ah-ha) You know what to do (ah-ha) La question c'est voulez-vous And here we go again, we know the start, we know the end Masters of the scene We've done it all before and now we're back to get some more You know what I mean Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Take it now or leave it (ah-ha) Now is all we get (ah-ha) Nothing promised, no regrets Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Ain't no big decision (ah-ha) You know what to do (ah-ha) La question c'est voulez-vous Voulez-vous... Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Take it now or leave it (ah-ha) Now is all we get (ah-ha) Nothing promised, no regrets Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Ain't no big decision (ah-ha) You know what to do (ah-ha) I can still say voulez-vous Voulez-vous (ah-ha, ah-ha, ah-ha) Voulez-vous (ah-ha, ah-ha, ah-ha) Voulez-vous (ah-ha, ah-ha, ah-ha) Voulez-vous (ah-ha, ah-ha, ah-ha) Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Take it now or leave it (ah-ha) Now is all we get (ah-ha) Nothing promised, no regrets Voulez-vous (ah-ha) Ain't no big decision (ah-ha) You know what to do (ah-ha) I can still say voulez-vous [repeat and fade]
The Magnetic Allure of “Voulez-Vous”: An Analysis
Setting the Scene: Electric Anticipation
“Voulez-Vous” opens with a vivid atmosphere, capturing the sense of excitement and energy that fills a crowded room. ABBA instantly transports listeners into a world of possibility and intrigue, where eyes meet across the dance floor and an unspoken connection ignites. The line “A sense of expectation hanging in the air” sets a tone of anticipation, hinting at the spontaneity that defines both nightlife and fleeting romantic encounters.
Repetition and Ritual: The Dance of Attraction
The lyrics repeatedly reference knowing “the start” and “the end,” suggesting a familiar ritual where both parties understand the rules of the game. ABBA cleverly acknowledges the cyclical nature of attraction and relationships, where the thrill lies in the repetition and the mutual recognition of patterns. “Masters of the scene” emphasizes a sense of confidence and control, as if the characters are seasoned participants in this nightly dance.
Carpe Diem: Living in the Moment
At the heart of “Voulez-Vous” is the invitation to seize the moment. The chorus urges, “Take it now or leave it / Now is all we get / Nothing promised, no regrets.” This refrain highlights the transient nature of desire, encouraging listeners to embrace opportunities without hesitation or fear. The repeated use of the French phrase “Voulez-vous” (meaning “Do you want?” or “Would you like?”) adds a layer of sophistication and playful invitation, reinforcing the song’s call to live passionately and without reservation.
Empowerment and Choice
ABBA’s lyrics also empower both parties, emphasizing that there is “no big decision”—the choice is mutual and free from pressure. The song celebrates agency, making it clear that engaging in the dance of romance is as much about self-expression as it is about connection. The interplay of English and French in the chorus underscores the universal nature of these emotions, transcending language and culture.
Song Credits
“Voulez-Vous” was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. The song was released in 1979 as part of ABBA’s sixth studio album, also titled Voulez-Vous. It was issued under the Polar Music label.