Introduction
“One of Us” is a song by the Swedish pop group ABBA, released in 1981 as the lead single from their album The Visitors. The song was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, two of ABBA’s core members. The Visitors marked a departure from the group’s earlier, more upbeat and disco-oriented sound, showcasing a more mature and introspective side of ABBA as they explored themes of emotional complexity and personal turmoil.
“One of Us” deals with the aftermath of a breakup, capturing the pain and loneliness of unrequited love. The lyrics express a sense of regret and yearning, with the protagonist reflecting on the emotional distance that has grown between them and their partner. The song’s melancholic tone was underscored by its arrangement, which combined a more stripped-back production with the signature harmonies that ABBA was known for. The song was one of the last to be recorded by the group during their original run, and it came during a period when tensions within the band were rising, due in part to the divorces of two of its members, Agnetha Fältskog and Björn Ulvaeus.
“One of Us” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK, and is often regarded as one of ABBA’s more poignant and emotionally resonant songs. The song has endured as a fan favorite and is a prominent part of ABBA’s legacy, highlighting the group’s ability to blend pop melodies with deeper emotional themes.