ABBA – Bang-A-Boomerang: A Pop Gem with Unexpected Origins
In the tapestry of pop music history, ABBA stands out as a group that redefined catchy melodies and infectious rhythms. Among their treasure trove of hits, “Bang-A-Boomerang” holds a curious place, a song with a fascinating backstory and a sound that embodies the playful spirit of early ABBA.
Background
Released in 1975 on their self-titled third studio album, “Bang-A-Boomerang” wasn’t originally intended for the Swedish supergroup. The song’s genesis can be traced back to songwriters Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, alongside Stig Anderson, who were the creative force behind most of ABBA’s hits. Initially, “Bang-A-Boomerang” was conceived as a demo for a young Swedish duo named Svenne & Lotta.
The demo, featuring an instrumental backing track and English lyrics, showcased ABBA’s signature style – a blend of pop sensibilities and Euro disco influences. However, the melody and lyrics held a unique twist. The song’s title and central metaphor referenced the boomerang, a traditional tool used by Aboriginal Australians for hunting and warfare. The lyrics compared the “message of love” to the returning boomerang, a symbol of something sent out that finds its way back.
Svenne & Lotta’s version of “Bang-A-Boomerang,” sung in both Swedish and English, achieved moderate success in Europe, particularly in Scandinavia. Meanwhile, ABBA, captivated by the song’s potential, decided to re-record their English demo with their own vocals.
This re-recorded version, released as a single in France with “SOS” as the B-side, became a minor hit but ultimately failed to replicate the success of their other chart-topping singles. However, “Bang-A-Boomerang” was included on their self-titled album, gaining a loyal following among ABBA enthusiasts for its playful melody and unexpected cultural reference.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1]
Making somebody happy is a question of give and take
You can learn how to show it so come on, give yourself a break
Every smile and every little touch
Don’t you know that they mean so much?
Sweet, sweet kisses so tender
Always will return to sender[Chorus]
Like a bang, a boome-boomerang
Dum-de-dum-dum de-dum-de-dum-dum
Oh bang, a boome-boomerang
Love is a tune you hum-de-hum-hum
By giving away, I think you’ll learn
You’ll get love in return
So bang, a boome-boomerang is love
A boome-boomerang is love[Verse 2]
Love is always around and you can look for it anywhere
When you feel that you’ve found it my advice is to take good care
Never use it as a selfish tool
Never ever be such a fool
Every feeling you’re showing
Is a boomerang you’re throwing