About the song
In the annals of Eurovision Song Contest history, few performances have captured the hearts and minds of audiences as enduringly as **ABBA’s** iconic “**Waterloo**.” This Swedish pop quartet, formed in 1971, took the stage in Brighton, England, in 1974 and delivered a performance that would catapult them to international stardom.
“Waterloo” is a catchy, upbeat number that tells the tale of a love-struck soldier who finds himself defeated in battle, much like Napoleon at Waterloo. The song’s infectious melody and witty lyrics resonated with viewers across Europe, and its victory at the Eurovision Song Contest marked a turning point for both ABBA and the competition itself.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, ABBA’s harmonies were impeccable, and their stage presence was electric. The group’s members, Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, and Benny Andersson, exuded a youthful energy and charisma that captivated the audience. Second, the song’s production was top-notch, with a driving beat and a memorable chorus that was impossible to forget. Finally, the lyrics were clever and relatable, with a sense of humor that appealed to a wide range of listeners.
“Waterloo” was a groundbreaking performance in many ways. It not only showcased ABBA’s talent but also helped to popularize Swedish pop music throughout Europe and beyond. The song’s success paved the way for future Eurovision winners from Scandinavia and other countries, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
Video
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…