About the song
In the realm of pop music, few songs have captured the hearts and minds of audiences as enduringly as Waterloo by the Swedish quartet ABBA. Released in 1974, this infectious tune became an international sensation, cementing ABBA’s status as one of the most beloved pop groups of all time.
The story behind Waterloo begins with the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, a highly anticipated annual event that showcases musical talent from across Europe. ABBA, then a relatively unknown act, was selected to represent Sweden. Their entry, Waterloo, was a departure from their earlier disco-influenced sound, opting instead for a catchy, upbeat melody with a memorable chorus.
The song’s lyrics tell the tale of a defeated army, symbolizing the end of a love affair. The metaphor of Waterloo, the site of Napoleon’s decisive defeat, adds a dramatic and historical element to the song. Despite its somber theme, Waterloo is a remarkably uplifting and optimistic track, celebrating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of loss.
When Waterloo was performed at the Eurovision Song Contest, it was an instant hit with both the audience and the judges. The song’s infectious energy and ABBA’s charismatic stage presence captivated viewers, and it ultimately won the contest by a landslide. The victory catapulted ABBA to international stardom, and Waterloo became a global phenomenon.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, its catchy melody and memorable chorus made it easy to sing along to. Second, ABBA’s harmonies and vocal arrangements were expertly crafted, creating a rich and textured sound. Third, the song’s positive message of resilience and hope resonated with audiences of all ages.
Waterloo remains a beloved classic today, its popularity enduring long after its initial release. It has been covered by countless artists, featured in numerous films and television shows, and continues to inspire new generations of music fans. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless message, its infectious energy, and its ability to transport listeners to a happier time.
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Lyrics
My, my
At Waterloo, Napoleon did surrender
Oh, yeah
And I have met my destiny in quite a similar way
The history book on the shelf
Is always repeating itself
Waterloo
I was defeated, you won the war
Waterloo
Promise to love you forevermore
Waterloo
Couldn’t escape if I wanted to
Waterloo
Knowing my fate is to be with you
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Finally facing my Waterloo
My, my
I tried to hold you back, but you were stronger
Oh, yeah
And now it seems my only chance is giving up the fight
And how could I ever refuse
I feel like I win when I lose
Waterloo
I was defeated, you won the war
Waterloo
Promise to love you for ever more
Waterloo
Couldn’t escape if I wanted to
Waterloo
Knowing my fate is to be with you
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Finally facing my Waterloo
So how could I ever refuse
I feel like I win when I lose
Waterloo
Couldn’t escape if I wanted to
Waterloo
Knowing my fate is to be with you
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Finally facing my Waterloo
Ooh-ooh, Waterloo
Knowing my fate is to be with you
Wa-Wa-Wa-Wa-Waterloo
Finally facing my Waterloo
Ooh-ooh, Waterloo…