Introduction
On a night filled with nostalgia, celebration, and musical history, Eurovision 2024 paid a spectacular tribute to one of its most legendary winners: ABBA. As the contest marked 50 years since ABBA’s unforgettable victory with “Waterloo” in 1974, the spotlight turned to the group that changed the face of pop music forever. But what truly stunned the global audience was the special segment labeled “ABBA Only” — a tribute like no other, where ABBA themselves took center stage in a performance that blended technology, emotion, and legacy.
The performance aired during the Eurovision Grand Final, held this year in Malmö, Sweden — a symbolic return to the band’s home country. As the arena darkened, a short video montage played, recounting ABBA’s journey from their Eurovision win in Brighton to becoming global superstars. Then, to the roar of the crowd, the opening chords of “Waterloo” rang out — and the magic began.
Rather than featuring a lineup of contemporary artists covering ABBA’s work, as many had expected, the tribute was entirely performed using ABBA’s own vocals and visuals, staying true to the “ABBA Only” concept. Through state-of-the-art visual effects and motion-capture technology — the same innovation used in the acclaimed ABBA Voyage show — audiences witnessed Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid perform “Waterloo” as they appeared in their 1974 prime.
Wearing recreated versions of their iconic Eurovision outfits, the digital ABBAtars lit up the stage, delivering a flawless and energetic performance that paid tribute to both the original moment and the band’s timeless influence. The stadium erupted in applause and emotion, with some fans seen wiping away tears as they watched what felt like a moment suspended in time.
Adding to the emotional impact, the real-life Björn and Benny appeared briefly in person at the end of the performance, waving to the crowd as the arena erupted in a standing ovation. Though Agnetha and Frida did not appear on stage physically, their presence was deeply felt — and their voices rang as clearly as they did 50 years ago.
“We wanted to honor that night in 1974, not by reinventing it, but by remembering it exactly as it was — and still is, in the hearts of so many,” Björn said in a short post-performance message. “Waterloo changed everything for us. And we’re still grateful.”
Social media exploded within minutes of the performance, with hashtags like #ABBAOnly, #Eurovision2024, and #Waterloo50 trending across Europe and beyond. Critics praised the segment as “a masterclass in tribute done right,” blending authenticity with innovation, without overshadowing the original moment.
As Eurovision 2024 came to a close, one thing was clear: ABBA’s legacy remains as powerful today as it was half a century ago. And with their “ABBA Only” tribute, they once again reminded the world why they are one of the most beloved musical acts of all time.