Introduction
At 79, Björn Ulvaeus Finally Lifts the Curtain on the Dark Side of ABBA
For decades, ABBA has been celebrated as one of the most successful and beloved pop groups in history. Their glittering costumes, infectious melodies, and timeless hits like Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia have brought joy to millions. But now, at the age of 79, Björn Ulvaeus — the songwriter, guitarist, and one of the founding members — is speaking more openly than ever about the struggles and tensions that existed behind the bright lights.
In a recent candid interview, Björn admitted that the public image of ABBA as a flawless, happy foursome was far from the whole truth. “People saw the smiles, the music, and the glamour,” he said. “What they didn’t see were the sleepless nights, the conflicts, and the personal heartbreak we all went through.”
Björn explained that the pressures of fame began to take their toll almost immediately after ABBA’s Eurovision victory in 1974. The group’s sudden international success meant endless touring, promotional commitments, and recording sessions. “It was exhilarating, but it was also exhausting,” he recalled. “There were times when we felt like we were living in a bubble, disconnected from the rest of the world.”
The most painful aspect, Björn revealed, was the strain on personal relationships. Both couples in the band — Björn with Agnetha Fältskog, and Benny Andersson with Anni-Frid Lyngstad — eventually went through divorces while still performing together. “It was incredibly difficult to sing love songs on stage when, behind the scenes, our own love stories were falling apart,” Björn admitted. “We tried to keep our private pain out of the spotlight, but it wasn’t easy.”
He also touched on the intense media scrutiny, particularly toward Agnetha and Anni-Frid, whose every appearance and relationship became tabloid material. “They were judged not just for their talent but for their looks, their clothing, even their personal lives. It was relentless, and it hurt.”
Financial and business pressures also cast a shadow. The group faced complex legal and contractual challenges, particularly as they began to slow down in the early 1980s. “When the music stopped, we had to face reality — and it wasn’t as glamorous as people imagined,” Björn said.
Despite the hardships, Björn is quick to acknowledge the positive legacy of ABBA. The band’s music continues to unite generations, and their groundbreaking “ABBA Voyage” digital concert has introduced them to millions of new fans. “I don’t regret the journey,” he said with a smile. “But I think it’s important for people to understand that even the brightest stars cast shadows.”
Reflecting on the past, Björn says he has found peace with both the highs and lows of his career. “ABBA was a dream, but it was also a challenge. We were human, and we went through all the human struggles. That’s what made the music real.”
For fans, this rare honesty from Björn offers a deeper appreciation not just of ABBA’s music, but of the resilience it took to create it.