About the song
“Take a Chance on Me,” a timeless anthem of love and determination by Swedish pop sensations ABBA, captivated audiences worldwide upon its release in January 1978 as the second single from their album ABBA: The Album. Led by the charismatic vocals of Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, the song showcases ABBA at their energetic best, blending pop hooks with intricate vocal arrangements.
The origins of “Take a Chance on Me” trace back to a rhythmic chant developed by Björn Ulvaeus during his runs, evolving into the infectious chorus that invites listeners to take a leap into romance. Written by Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, the song marked a significant milestone as one of ABBA’s first singles where Stig Anderson, their manager, did not contribute to the lyrics, solidifying Ulvaeus and Andersson’s prowess as songwriters.
Upon its release, “Take a Chance on Me” soared up the charts, reaching the top ten in both the UK and the US. Its upbeat tempo and layered harmonies resonated with fans, earning praise for its dynamic production and memorable acappella opening. The song’s success was complemented by its B-side, “I’m a Marionette,” part of ABBA’s ambitious mini-musical performed during their 1977 concert tour.
Critically acclaimed for its innovation and catchy melodies, “Take a Chance on Me” became ABBA’s seventh number one hit in the UK, solidifying their reputation as chart-toppers of the 1970s. In the US, the song peaked at number three and achieved gold certification, highlighting its broad appeal and enduring popularity across borders.
Over the years, “Take a Chance on Me” has continued to be celebrated as one of ABBA’s finest compositions. Billboard ranked it as one of the group’s greatest songs, and Rolling Stone recognized its enduring impact with a prominent place on their list of ABBA’s best tracks. With its blend of charisma, musicality, and universal themes of love and risk, the song remains a beloved classic, transcending generations and securing its place in pop music history.
With vocals by Fältskog and Lyngstad supported by Ulvaeus and Andersson’s instrumental prowess, alongside contributions from Rutger Gunnarsson on bass, Roger Palm on drums, and Malando Gassama on percussion, “Take a Chance on Me” stands as a testament to ABBA’s enduring legacy and their ability to craft music that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
If you change your mind, I’m the first in line
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(That’s all I ask of you, honey)
Take a chance on me
We can go dancing, we can go walking, as long as we’re together
Listen to some music, maybe just talking, get to know you better
‘Cause you know I’ve got
So much that I wanna do, when I dream I’m alone with you
It’s magic
You want me to leave it there, afraid of a love affair
But I think you know
That I can’t let go
If you change your mind, I’m the first in line
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best and it ain’t no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(Come on, give me a break will you?)
Take a chance on me
Oh you can take your time baby, I’m in no hurry, know I’m gonna get you
You don’t wanna hurt me, baby don’t worry, I ain’t gonna let you
Let me tell you now
My love is strong enough to last when things are rough
It’s magic
You say that I waste my time but I can’t get you off my mind
No, I can’t let go
‘Cause I love you so
If you change your mind, I’m the first in line
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you’ve got no place to go, if you’re feeling down
If you’re all alone when the pretty birds have flown
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best, baby can’t you see
Gotta put me to the test, take a chance on me
(Take a chance, take a chance, take a chance on me)
Ba ba ba ba baa, ba ba ba ba baa
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best, baby can’t you see
Gotta put me to the test, take a chance on me
(Take a chance, take a chance, take a chance on me)
Ba ba ba ba baa, ba ba ba ba baa ba-ba
Honey, I’m still free
Take a chance on me
Gonna do my very best, baby can’t you see
Gotta put me to the test, take a chance on me