ABBA – On and On and On: A Pop Gem with Unexpected Influences
In the vibrant tapestry of 1970s pop music, few bands captured the hearts of audiences quite like ABBA. Their infectious melodies, layered harmonies, and captivating stage presence propelled them to international superstardom.
Among their vast repertoire of hits, “On and On and On” stands out as a delightful surprise, a song that blends their signature sound with unexpected influences, creating a pop gem that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Background
Released in 1980 as the second single from their album Super Trouper, “On and On and On” marked a subtle shift in ABBA’s sound. While retaining the group’s characteristic pop sensibilities, the song incorporates elements of disco and rock and roll, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and refreshing.
The song peaked at number 11 on the Swedish Singles Chart, solidifying ABBA’s dominance in their home country and demonstrating their ability to evolve and experiment within the pop genre.
The song’s narrative follows a young woman’s exhilarating night out, filled with the pulsating energy of a discotheque. The lyrics, penned by ABBA’s songwriting duo Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, capture the carefree joy of youthful revelry.
Lines like “Met a minister in the state, told me to keep on rockin’ baby till the night is gone” paint a vivid picture of a night fueled by music and good company.
Here’s where “On and On and On” takes a fascinating turn. The song’s chorus features a clear influence from The Beach Boys, particularly their 1968 hit “Do It Again.”
The layered backing vocals, a signature element of The Beach Boys’ sound, are prominently featured in ABBA’s chorus, creating a sense of nostalgia and summery euphoria.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1]
I was at a party and this fella said to me
“Something bad is happening, I’m sure you do agree
People care for nothing, no respect for human rights
Evil times are coming, we are in for darker nights”[Verse 2]
I said, “Who are you to talk about impending doom?”
He got kinda wary as he looked around the room
He said, “I’m a minister, a big shot in the state”
I said, “I just can’t believe it, boy I think it’s great
Brother can you tell me what is right and what is wrong?”
He said, “Keep on rocking baby, till the night is gone”[Chorus]
On and on and on
Keep on rocking baby, till the night is gone
On and on and on
Till the night is gone
On and on and on
Keep on rocking baby, till the night is gone
On and on and on
Till the night is gone[Verse 3]
Over in the corner, I could see this other guy
He was kinda flirty, he was giving me the eye
So I took advantage of the fact that I’m a star
Shook my hair and took a casual stroll up to the bar