About the song
“Mamma Mia,” the energetic song that opens ABBA’s self-titled 1975 album, is more than just a catchy pop tune. It’s a testament to the power of experimentation and a song that defied expectations to become a global phenomenon.
Written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson, “Mamma Mia” wasn’t initially intended for release as a single. Composed at the home of Fältskog and Ulvaeus, it became the last track recorded for the album. The song’s now-iconic marimba intro, a “tick-tock” rhythm discovered by Andersson in the studio, was a last-minute addition that added an unexpected layer of intrigue.
Despite not being planned as a single, fate had other plans. ABBA initially offered the song to the British group Brotherhood of Man, who surprisingly declined. Meanwhile, in Australia, promotional clips for the song were gaining popularity on television, overshadowing the intended single, “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do.” This audience enthusiasm prompted the Australian record company to push for a “Mamma Mia” single release, ultimately leading to its international success.
Lyrically, the song is a relatable tale of a woman navigating a tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship. The repeated refrain of “Mamma Mia” – an Italian interjection expressing surprise or frustration – perfectly captures the emotional rollercoaster of the narrator.
The song’s impact was undeniable. It became ABBA’s first number one hit in the UK since “Waterloo” in 1974, topping charts across Europe and Australia. Critics praised the song’s upbeat tempo and “characteristically varied textures,” solidifying ABBA’s position as a rising force in pop music.
“Mamma Mia” continues to be a beloved ABBA classic. It has been ranked among the band’s greatest songs by publications like Billboard and Rolling Stone. The song’s enduring popularity even transcended music, inspiring the hit musical and subsequent film “Mamma Mia!”
So, the next time you hear the infectious melody of “Mamma Mia,” remember its surprising journey – a testament to the power of experimentation, audience connection, and an unforgettable marimba beat.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been cheated by you since I don’t know when
So I made up my mind, it must come to an end
Look at me now, will I ever learn
I don’t know how, but I suddenly lose control
There’s a fire within my soul
and I can hear a bell ring
(One more look) and I forget everything, whoa
Mamma mia, here I go again
My, my, how can I resist you?
Mamma mia, does it show again
My, my, just how much I’ve missed you?
Yes, I’ve been brokenhearted
Blue since the day we parted
Why, why did I ever let you go?
Mamma mia, now I really know
My, my, I could never let you go
I’ve been angry and sad about things that you do
I can’t count all the times that I’ve told you we’re through
And when you go, when you slam the door
I think you know that you won’t be away too long
You know that I’m not that strong
and I can hear a bell ring
(One more look) and I forget everything, whoa
Mamma mia, here I go again
My, my, how can I resist you?
Mamma mia, does it show again
My, my, just how much I’ve missed you?
Yes, I’ve been brokenhearted
Blue since the day we parted
Why, why did I ever let you go?
Mamma mia, even if I say
Bye-bye, leave me now or never
Mamma mia, it’s a game we play
Bye-bye doesn’t mean forever
Mamma mia, here I go again
My, my, how can I resist you?
Mamma mia, does it show again
My, my, just how much I’ve missed you?
Yes, I’ve been brokenhearted
Blue since the day we parted
Why, why did I ever let you go?
Mamma mia, now I really know
My, my, I could never let you go