ABBA – Super Trouper

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

“Super Trouper,” the seventh studio album by the Swedish pop group ABBA, was released in November 1980. By this time, ABBA was already an established international sensation, known for their catchy pop melodies and harmonious vocals. The album features some of the band’s most enduring hits, including the title track “Super Trouper” and “The Winner Takes It All,” which highlight the band’s evolution towards a more mature and reflective sound compared to their earlier, more upbeat work.

About The Composition

• Title: Super Trouper
• Composer: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus
• Premiere Date: November 1980
• Album/Opus/Collection: Super Trouper
• Genre: Pop

Background

The album “Super Trouper” was recorded during a period of personal turmoil for the members of ABBA, with the divorces of both couples in the band impacting its production. Despite this, the album became a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries and selling over a million copies in the UK alone. The title track “Super Trouper” was inspired by the spotlight used in concerts, reflecting the pressures of fame and life on tour.

Musical Style

“Super Trouper” showcases a blend of pop sensibilities with more sophisticated musical arrangements. The album features a mix of upbeat tracks and ballads, employing lush harmonies and orchestration. The use of synthesizers and layered vocals adds depth to the sound, creating a polished and dynamic listening experience.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrical themes in “Super Trouper” revolve around personal introspection and emotional depth. Songs like “The Winner Takes It All” explore themes of heartbreak and loss, while “Super Trouper” itself reflects on the dichotomy between public success and private struggles. The lyrics are poignant and relatable, resonating with listeners across generations.

Performance History

“Super Trouper” has been performed by ABBA in various live concerts and television appearances throughout the early 1980s. The title track and other hits from the album continue to be featured in tribute shows and musical productions, such as “Mamma Mia!,” which has helped introduce ABBA’s music to new audiences worldwide.

Cultural Impact

The cultural impact of “Super Trouper” is significant, as it contributed to cementing ABBA’s status as pop music icons. The album’s songs have been covered by numerous artists and featured in films, television shows, and stage productions. Its themes of love, fame, and personal struggle continue to resonate, making it a timeless piece of musical history.

Legacy

Today, “Super Trouper” is considered one of ABBA’s defining works, showcasing their ability to blend catchy pop melodies with meaningful lyrics. The album’s success and enduring appeal are testaments to the band’s influence on the pop music genre and their ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.

Conclusion

“Super Trouper” remains a captivating album that reflects both the height of ABBA’s career and the personal challenges faced by its members. Its blend of catchy tunes and heartfelt lyrics invites listeners to explore the complexities of fame and emotion. I encourage anyone interested in pop music history to delve deeper into this remarkable album and its legacy.

Video

Lyrics

Super trouper beams are gonna blind me
But I won’t feel blue
Like I always do
‘Cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you
I was sick and tired of everything
When I called you last night from Glasgow
All I do is eat and sleep and sing
Wishing every show was the last show (wishing every show was the last show)
So imagine I was glad to hear you’re coming (glad to hear you’re coming)
Suddenly I feel all right (and suddenly it’s gonna be)
And it’s gonna be so different when I’m on the stage tonight
Tonight the super trouper lights are gonna find me
Shining like the sun (super trouper)
Smiling, having fun (super trouper)
Feeling like a number one
Tonight the super trouper beams are gonna blind me (super trouper)
But I won’t feel blue (super trouper)
Like I always do (super trouper)
‘Cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you
Facing twenty-thousand of your friends
How can anyone be so lonely?
Part of a success that never ends
Still I’m thinking about you only (still I’m thinking about you only)
There are moments when I think I’m going crazy (think I’m going crazy)
But it’s gonna be alright (you’ll soon be changing everything)
Everything will be so different when I’m on the stage tonight
Tonight the super trouper lights are gonna find me (super trouper)
Shining like the sun (super trouper)
Smiling, having fun (super trouper)
Feeling like a number one
Tonight the super trouper beams are gonna blind me (super trouper)
But I won’t feel blue (super trouper)
Like I always do (super trouper)
‘Cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you
So I’ll be there when you arrive
The sight of you will prove to me I’m still alive
And when you take me in your arms and hold me tight
I know it’s gonna mean so much tonight
Tonight the super trouper lights are gonna find me (super trouper)
Shining like the sun (super trouper)
Smiling, having fun (super trouper)
Feeling like a number one
Tonight the super trouper beams are gonna blind me (super trouper)
But I won’t feel blue (super trouper)
Like I always do (super trouper)
‘Cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you
Super trouper lights are gonna find me
Shining like the sun (super trouper)
Smiling, having fun (super trouper)
Feeling like a number one
Tonight the super trouper beams are gonna blind me (super trouper)
But I won’t feel blue (super trouper)
Like I always do (super trouper)