ABBA – What About Livingstone?: A Quirky Inquiry in a Pop Anthem
Ah, ABBA. The name conjures up images of shimmering costumes, infectious melodies, and a sound that dominated the disco scene of the 1970s. But beyond the catchy hooks and vibrant stage presence, ABBA occasionally ventured into lyrical territories that surprised listeners. This is precisely the case with the delightfully oddball song, “What About Livingstone?”
Released in 1974 on their sophomore album, Waterloo, “What About Livingstone?” stands out as a quirky anomaly within ABBA’s vast repertoire. While songs like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia!” pulsated with dancefloor energy, “What About Livingstone?” takes a more introspective, even humorous, approach.
The song’s narrative revolves around the famed Scottish explorer, Dr. David Livingstone. Livingstone spent decades exploring vast swathes of Africa, encountering uncharted territories and documenting the continent’s diverse landscapes and cultures. However, “What About Livingstone?” doesn’t delve into the historical significance of his expeditions. Instead, the lyrics, penned by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, pose a playful question:
“Travelling up the Nile, oh what a sight But what about Livingstone, I just can’t get him out of my mind tonight”
This seemingly nonsensical refrain, sung in unison by Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, injects a dose of whimsy into the song. The Nile, of course, flows north through Africa, far from the areas Livingstone explored primarily in the south and central regions. This geographical discrepancy adds to the song’s lighthearted, almost nonsensical nature.
Despite the seemingly nonsensical lyrics, “What About Livingstone?” offers a glimpse into the evolving sound of ABBA. The song features a driving bassline, punctuated by a memorable synth riff, showcasing a more experimental approach alongside their signature pop sensibilities.
While “What About Livingstone?” wasn’t a chart-topping hit for ABBA, it has garnered a cult following among fans who appreciate the band’s willingness to experiment. The song’s playful spirit and unexpected lyrics have secured its place as a quirky gem within ABBA’s discography.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- “What About Livingstone?” was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus.
- It was released in 1974 on the album Waterloo.
- The song is sung by Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.