Introduction
“One of Us” is a song by Swedish pop group ABBA, released in 1981 as the lead single from their final studio album, The Visitors. Written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with lyrics by Ulvaeus, the track marked a departure from ABBA’s usual upbeat pop sound and embraced a more mature, introspective tone. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, loss, and emotional vulnerability, reflecting the band’s own personal and professional changes during this period.
The song tells the story of a person who is trying to come to terms with the end of a relationship, facing the loneliness and pain that comes with it. The lyrics express the confusion and sadness of realizing that someone who was once “one of us” is now no longer part of their life. This emotional depth and the song’s melancholic mood resonated with many listeners, making it one of ABBA’s most poignant tracks.
“One of Us” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK and Ireland. It also performed well in the United States, where it was one of the last major hits for the band. The song’s music video, which features a minimalist style with the band members performing against a stark backdrop, emphasized the song’s emotional intensity.
“One of Us” remains a classic in ABBA’s catalog and is often considered one of their most sophisticated and heartfelt songs. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to evolve their musical style while maintaining their distinctive appeal.