Björn Ulvaeus Admits to Writing ABBA’s ‘The Winner Takes It All’ While Intoxicated

Björn Ulvaeus reveals he penned ‘The Winner Takes It All’ while under the influence, showcasing the contrast of creativity and inebriation in songwriting.

The Story Behind ABBA’s Iconic Track

ABBA's own Björn Ulvaeus recently opened up about the writing process behind one of the group's most beloved songs, ‘The Winner Takes It All’. According to Ulvaeus, the inspiration hit him while he was indulging in a few glasses of whisky. As he recounted in a new interview, he normally avoided writing while drinking, but this song turned out to be a standout exception.

The song, released in 1980, captures the raw emotions following a breakup, and Ulvaeus explained that he managed to create something meaningful despite his inebriation. He said, "I wrote that song very quickly while drinking whisky during my drinking days. I rarely wrote while intoxicated because you look at the words the next day and it’s garbage."

A Glimpse of Human Pain

Ulvaeus also emphasized that even though the song is not a direct reflection of his life, he aimed to portray genuine human suffering through the lyrics. He noted, "But most of ‘The Winner Takes It All’ is actually good. It’s not a personal story, but I tried to find the detail of a real human pain.”

Benny Andersson, Agnetha Fältskog, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA. CREDIT: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images

Rumors Around the Song's Inspiration

Despite Ulvaeus stating that the lyrics were not autobiographical, many fans have speculated that the track was inspired by his breakup with bandmate Agnetha Fältskog. The couple's relationship ended in the late 1970s, and they officially divorced in the same year the song premiered. Given that Fältskog lends her voice to the lead vocals, the personal connection adds an extra layer of poignancy to the piece.

Ulvaeus on His Relationship

In the same interview, Ulvaeus opened up about the struggles of his current marriage to Christina Sas, who is significantly younger than him. He candidly mentioned feeling "troubled" about the "severe problems" stemming from their age difference.

ABBA Voyage Concert Updates

Switching gears, in recent news, it was revealed that the setlist for ABBA’s virtual concert residency, *ABBA Voyage*, will see some updates this May as it approaches its third anniversary in London. The concert, which kicked off in May 2022 and has been extended until January 2026 due to phenomenal demand, is receiving some fresh additions to keep the experience exciting for fans.

You can grab your tickets here.

Future of ABBA’s Music

Ulvaeus hinted at the potential for new songs to be incorporated into the *Voyage* show. “We did motion capture more songs that we have in this concert,” he shared. He also teased that while there are plans for future animated songs, he couldn't provide any specific details just yet.

Critical Acclaim for ABBA Voyage

The first night of the *Voyage* concert received rave reviews, with one publication awarding it five stars and describing it as “an epic avatar mega-mix from a brave new world.” They noted that it’s a challenge for other artists to mimic the unique experience that *ABBA Voyage* offers.

“We for one welcome our new ABBAtar overlords, if only for giving these songs back to us in a totally new and joyful way.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What inspired Björn Ulvaeus to write ‘The Winner Takes It All’? Ulvaeus was inspired by the emotional aftermath of a breakup, even though he claims the song isn't autobiographical.
• Is ‘The Winner Takes It All’ based on Ulvaeus’s relationship with Agnetha Fältskog? While not directly based on his life, many speculate it reflects his personal experiences.
• What changes are being made to ABBA’s *Voyage* concert? The concert’s setlist is being revamped for its third anniversary, with hints of new songs being included.
• When did ABBA Voyage first open? The concert debuted in May 2022 and has been extended until January 2026 due to high demand.
• What is the future for ABBA’s music? Ulvaeus teased that there are songs in the pipeline that might be animated for future performances.

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