Introduction
“The Name of the Game” is a song by Swedish pop group ABBA, released in 1977 as the first single from their fifth studio album, The Album. Written by ABBA’s songwriting duo Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the song became one of the group’s most successful and iconic tracks, known for its blend of pop, disco, and ABBA’s signature melodicism.
The song is notable for its introspective and slightly mysterious lyrics, which describe the emotional complexity of a relationship. The narrator expresses confusion and vulnerability in trying to understand the true nature of love, leading to the recurring line “What’s the name of the game?” This theme of uncertainty in relationships was something that resonated with many listeners, offering a more introspective tone compared to some of ABBA’s more upbeat songs.
Musically, “The Name of the Game” features a lush arrangement with rich orchestration, including strings and synthesizers, creating a dynamic and dramatic atmosphere. The track was also distinctive for its use of harmonies, particularly the interplay between Agnetha Fältskog’s lead vocals and Anni-Frid Lyngstad’s backing vocals, which became a hallmark of ABBA’s sound.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries, including the UK and the Netherlands, and performing well in the US charts as well. The accompanying music video, featuring the group performing the song in a stylized, glamorous setting, helped further cement ABBA’s image as pop superstars.