This is fascinating my friend! ABBA as a group and the individuals within it never cease to amaze me! What a lovely thing to do for his friend. You could see how much Tomas appreciated it as he watched it. Any group with quality reflects diverse influences in their "deep cuts". ABBA are rightly praised for their peerless hit singles. But they are so much more as this examples demonstrates. I am not keen on country as a musical genre, yet I love "I Can Be That Woman" and this sounds fantastic. And, yes, Björn looks truly amazing for a man who is 77 next month! He exudes something so wholesome. He is adorable to me!
It was such a joy to peer into a more 'special' subject and look at all these connections. Yes, they're always in for these wonderful surprises. Thanks for your appreciative comment my friend!
The best anti-dot against hubris, is the ability to self-mockery. ABBA always were masters in that. Björn brought that to perfection,with his lyrics here. Notice his mocking the quest for immortality:"I recommend an avatar....to stay forever young! Also closing the circle to "Voyage"
I have to give it to Bjorn: what a way to celebrate an old friend! Hilarious and precious. Abba have had that wonderful quality about them of never taking themselves too seriously.
Bill Corgan frontman of alt-rock band Smashing Pumpkins said some years back "they had(Abba) that right combination of fun beauty,not taking it too seriously but being deadly in the studio/i wish pop world today had an Abba" also praising Agnetha as one of his most fave singers of all time!
@@debs4672Hey Debs! Last but not least,its unbelievable how many times you hear voices from fellow musicians praising ABBA from an unexpectedly different music genre.Seems they also do an exception for them,as opposed to some rock critics.Smashing Pumpkin's frontman also named Agnetha's solo lp "I STAND ALONE" as "a lost treasure" not to mention that guy from SLIPKNOT(!)leaderman Corey Taylor stating his a big fan praising Abba for sounding clearly different from all others,having "full spectrum lush production" and that his fave one is TACOM! That was "always my jam"/"when i put it on ,i'm instantly in good mood" he told amongst others.Now that's shockingly great to admit!
Love the song...since I first heard it, I must played it a few times a day. "Hej Gamle Man" is also my favorite pre-ABBA song. I myself just celebrated my 63rd birthday and can easily identity with the lyrics. Puts a smile on this older man's face!
So cool how much you enjoy Björn's new song. "Hej, gamle man!" is very catchy and a great recording, good sound. I wish you a very Happy late Birthday, Michael!
Another great insight BB into the world of ABBA. the tribute to his life long friend by Byorn is truly exceptional..he epitomizes everything we always knew about his & Benny's talent for writing & composing music 🎶 👌. He is also looking bloody good for his years too so it's certainly keeping him young!!!! There will never be song writing of their ilk & we are so lucky this has happened in our life time..! Keep up the great work ypu put in place to keep us 'mortals' educated BB.
Their songwriting is par excellence. All four of them continue to produce excellent music and projects, for them and for us. They've always stayed true to themselves. And I'm forever grateful for being a part of this experience, and cherish it all. Thanks for your nice words, David!
Thank you for keeping us updated! This is really interesting. The many threads of ABBAs creativity are fun to follow. Since they have come back I’ve really turned into a fanboy😂
Wow, that's super cool to read, Joseph. What a way of turning into a fan with this whole "Voyage" project and ABBA being back in the world! Thanks for the kind words!
Thank you! I thought I knew almost everything about ABBA but I always learn more from your videos. When people ask me my favorite movie of all time, the answer is always easy "ABBA The Movie" because 1/2 the movie shows ABBA live in concert in Australia in 1977. "ABBA The Movie" is considered the Bible among ABBA fans.
On my review about the film (which you'll find on my channel) I said that even objectively speaking, "ABBA: The Movie" is a terrific cinematic experience, a perfect musical film. It's almost flawless, and so inventive. Director Lasse Hallström - and the band - are at one of their finest hours. I'm so happy you enjoyed my video and found something new again. Even for me, it's always thrilling to put it all together and contextualize these things. Thanks for your kind words, William!
The song and video immediately put a smile on my face. I love the country re-arrangement and Björn's new lyrics! Of course, "Hej, gamle man" will always hold special significance, being the song that started it all, and the rest is history...! By the way, "Burning My Bridges" is one of my favorite unreleased ABBA songs, and I definitely think it should have been released! I especially love the intro!
As so often, I completely agree with you here, Marike. "Burning My Bridges" is one of my personal favorites from "ABBA Undeleted", as is "Givin' A Little Bit More" - Björn is vocally in top form, despite them being demos only.
This is amazing Bjorn shows how he and Benny are so creative and talented, they can write and play music of every genre and maybe even invent a few more.Here Bjorn crosses a folk song into pure country, his English lyrics are superb ,the band incredible,they nailed it .Bjorns performance of this song reminds me of a famous American country singer, Tom T Hall and in particular a song called "Old Dogs children and Watermelon Wine",look on you tube and listen to it ,tell me what you think BB .This song really shows how Bjorn can adapt a Swedish folk song into an American style country song and the transition is perfect and beautiful, this is why ABBA inspire and affect our minds and hearts they are pure perfection ,and are the sorcerers of magical and mystical music and they dwell in our souls for eternity
@@bobbysbrother137 I forgot to mention ABBAs other country song ,WELL medely really ,the b side to Summer night city ,pick a bale of cotton,on top of old smokey and midnight special ,that is superb and the girls vocals so pure and definitively country,I just love it.
@@michaelsnaidero1671 You're absolutely right. Their only song not written by themselves, and yet it's a real gem for me! They nail this so much and even turn traditional songs into their own trademark. And as a medley, it's absolutely flawless. Top-notch production!
You did it again.Excellent video editing that "keep one's mind busy" till the end.You are an adorable master of accurate researching!"Lycka" btw is a song i like in English version by BJORN(To live with you).Despite it's rather stripped production (from very early '70s) it's quite impactful and has beautiful lyrics.Frida's version in Swedish is also very very beautiful with her warm "honey cinamom" flavoured voice no matter if i don't understand the words. p.s.0:09.Luv Benny's "Santa Claus promising smile" reflecting his joyful viral mood.
Could not agree more with everything you said, Alexio. "Lycka" is a wonderful composition, the English demo version is beautiful and I'm so glad they agreed to release it after many decades. And Frida's version - simply to melt away! I really appreciate your wonderful feedback and I'm so happy you enjoyed this video. It's one of my personal favorites now, because digging into these unique subjects is always thrilling, and trying to combine all these puzzle pieces into a coherent theme is a lot of fun. I just hope that my pace isn't too overwhelming with so many details to go through. Again, many thanks my friend!!
Thanks again Bobby’s Brother for another fascinating video full of information. I look forward to every new video you post. I hope there will be an official single release of Bjorn’s “Hey Grand Old Man”, a terrific solo performance. 💕🤗
Hej, absamdb! It's always a lot of fun to put these videos together. I'm very humbled how you and many others want to see it. Thanks for your very kind feedback. Let's hope for that single release. It would be grand!
Rumour has it that Benny was rehearsing in studio with VOYAGE's backing vocalists for the Abbatar shows the album track THE VISITORS!Wow!I do wish some surprise album deep cuts to be included in the set list such as Move On/IIWFTN/OMOW/OLS/STMF/KOF.Fans will go crazy!And also some big ones they never did live.TWTIA/OOU/TDBYC.But I guess we can't have everything we want to be included in that list of 19-22 songs.And would also luv to see them doing "The Way Old Friends Do" as an encore live in flesh n blood at the premier that special night.Oh my..I'm such a fool,greedy dreamer.
Hey there BB😊oh how I loved the way Frida introduced Bjorn onto the stage, so sweetly her voice is💖...Oh and to see the coins in his guitar suitcase lol was funny to see, as if he needs it huh? Lol.😂....Oh yes I'm a country gal at heart BB😊I think his voice is suited to sing country music now... like me he's floated into another genre of style in music lol! I love country music always have and always will😊thankyou for that pleasant review on Bjorns new song...Grand Old Man....I love it very much💙...Okay until next time be seeing you soon Bobby's Brother.😊 takecare, stay well, and stay safe xo.
It suits Björn so well, and ABBA in general, to go with the country vibe, as their main influence was always Schlager music at heart, and part of their overall appeal. Country music is also composed with guitars (Björn's favorite instrument), and smells of forests, mist, and bonfires. Abba always touched the "country",or local music, in different styles such as Eagle (with Native American hints), Fernando (Spanish-esque), Summer Night City (Arabian hints), and the heavily Celtic-influenced When you Danced with Me, The Piper, and some others. Anyhow, what a touching tribute to his friend and long-time collaborator Tomas Ledin, very much like Hovas Vittne. That young energetic boy in the backing band is now a grand old man...how time flies. Huge hugs for the sweet knowledgeable grand ole Bobby's Brother.
Thank you so much, dear Marcelo, for these nice words. A great run-through of ABBA's "exotic" musical adventures, what a joy to read. But am I really grand and ole yet? Oh dear, haha. Cheers!
@@bobbysbrother137 Oh, well, certainly not in age, but grand in all the immense knowledge you share, and ole, because your warmth makes you come across as an old friend.
Great work as always BB. Thanks for this insightful piece and for the nice bits you put together to make the video. Now I'm away to search for Nashville Train.
Hey grand old man was recorded as a Birthday gift card to the Swedish singer/Songwriter Thomas Ledin on his 70s birthday. Thomas was one of their backup singers back in the 1970sThey did similar things on their manager Stickan Andersons 50 year birthday back in the 70s
С юности до сегодняшнего дня АББА всегда рядом. Когда-то заучивание наизусть и перевод текста песен со словарем, подбор музыки с магнитофона. И сейчас, в машине флешка с музыкой АББА, чтобы иногда привести чувства и мысли в порядок.
A lot of the comments have already covered what i intended to say...just to reiterate then, that your post was very informative to perhaps the younger generation who are just discovering the joys and talent of ABBA.To hear about their early days and releases at the time.I adore Bjorns' new lyrics to this song.. showing his sense of fun and the way in which he wanted to show appreciation for his friend. He sounds great and does not look his age at all! What's your secret Bjorn!? 😀.Thankyou for another great video as always.👍🤗
Oh, it's such a joy for younger generations to discover ABBA, let alone all these fascinating and somewhat mystic facets. That's what was so intriguing for me all those years ago. It's very nice you mentioned that aspect. Many thanks, Janet!!
So nice to listen Björn's voice, such a longtime without a solo :) you have chosen the theme "Country music" but it would be very interesting also to make a theme about the "funny" things made by Abba (such as Björn in "welcome to Sweden" show) or the numerous TV Shows or movies which indirectly use Abba (Muriel, Priscilla, Will & Grace, the simpsons, Malcom, that's 70's show etc...)
I love the song. I love the video. I love that at his age Bjorn seems to be on a bit on a tear and in a good way. It's really kinda remarkable how close to home that song hit's.
Another very entertaining and informative story! I'm amazed at the thorough research, the videos and your deep understanding of ABBA's music, and background. It's like an awaited news cast, or a short documentary film...
Hej It’s really a cute and beautifully presented tribute to his friend Thomas 🙌 I really enjoy Bjorns vocal delivery and his voice is still fantastic very skilled but humorous video aswel 😂 Bjorn reminds me of Johnny Cash vocaly within this special tribute 👍
Hej abbascots. Yes, he sounds great - not too far away from Johnny Cash I'd agree, haha! Who would have thought there's a forgotten Country singer in Björn?
Hey Hey Bobby, Bjorn’s had my heart since day one so putting him in cowboy regalia after the wild ,crazy ,disco years is quite a stretch . Even though cowboys are a common sight here it seems more ludicrous to see him in that then before . Can’t deny that at 77 he still looks terrific. I do like the song and a fitting tribute to his life long friend and as a ballad it’s a good one. As you know ABBA was the for runner of MTV, still, a Swedish cowboy, hmm, I could get use to it. Once again,enlightening.🤠🇺🇸
Yes!! A lovely novelty recording - thanks for pointing this one out and adding it to our "ABBA goes Country"-list. And again, this one started life as a B&B composition in 1971, and was even performed by them during a spring & summer tour '71 together with Agnetha.
Björn has such a great sense of humour - really mocking himself with the cowboy boots and the busking! What does he take out of the fridge/freezer in the supermarket by the way? Anyone know? I was surprised you mentioned TACOM as having elements of country music without mentioning the much more obvious C&W style of One Man, One Woman from the same album. And that's the song that I Can Be That Woman is most reminiscent of. And Bobby, thank you for your sensitive editing of clips from The Movie. I have never listened to that Nashville Train album and I'm about to! :-)
"One Man, One Woman" should definitely be included in our list. They were exploring American sounds and themes for their 1977 album, so it seems natural how much C&W influences got into some of the songs. Thanks for all your input and great feedback, Sian. I took your advice to heart, nice you noticed it. Always great to see you here. Let me know if you enjoy the album!
UPDATE: Universal Music Sweden has shared the link to Björn's video. Listen to the song and watch the video here: ruclips.net/video/FPIV-6GnRDg/видео.html Also, listen to Nashville Train's "ABBA Our Way" (1976) here - kudos to Abba Obscura for the sonically most excellent version available: ruclips.net/video/mebsxIjbuA0/видео.html Please take note that some more ABBA songs with country elements have been pointed out to me: 1) "Medley: Pick A Bale Of Cotton/On Top Of Old Smokey/Midnight Special" 2) "One Man, One Woman" (which in turn does have its thematic connections to "I Can Be That Woman" as well) Furthermore, songs that touch country or local music in different styles: "Fernando" (Spanish-esque), "Eagle" (Native American hints), "Summer Night City" (Arabian hints), and the Celtic-influenced "The Piper" and "When You Danced With Me". The 1974 single "Svea, Svea" by Rutger (Gunnarsson) also has country & western style. It started life as an unreleased Björn & Benny recording in 1971 and features backing vocals by Agnetha and Frida (that are still intact on the 1974 version). In 1971, Björn, Benny and Agnetha even performed the song live during their spring/summer tour. Many thanks to michael snaidero, Ard Luijten, Adam Ross, Sian Williams, Marcelo Sandoval, kimbozw for these additions, and to all the others for your *great* contributions!
!Summernight city -Arabian hints?!!!Well believe it or not,BANANARAMA did a live club tour performance with "Arabian hints" instrumentation and it sounded really exotic!clicked so perfectly.Had seen that in utube couple of years back.
B'sB' i see that you use fans reaction footage very often in your videos(which i love it) from '77/79 tours.I remember reading in a book"Abba In their own words" i think it was BJORN stating that he had been reading fan mail on people describing how deep they feel about Abba.I've seen a lot of unedited footage in the net from news(Aussie tv- fans queing for tickets/Swedish reports/Uk '77 tour fans' reactions reports)also '82 German show express(The unedited"Underattack" finale) with fans rushing on stage grabbing n kissing Frida and stuff,that will be a very delightfull material to collect and do a video on Abba fans' reactions in time.I can't think of any other band having so loyal fans after 4 decades of hiatus and still feel so emotional on them.It's quite remarkable.
That's a very nice observation of yours, I never consciously noticed it! These things happen intuitively, since I'm putting the footage together according to my inner feelings, so it's cool how you point this out. I've included the crazy "Show Express 1982" reaction in my video "Top 5 ABBA Television Moments", and a similar reaction of fans rushing on stage to grab and kiss Frida is included in my review of her "Shine" album, when I ask for fans' memories of the time. Always nice to see you here. Thanks, Alexio!!
@@bobbysbrother137Well i gotta revisit your videos you mentioned about it immediatetly .lol.As for Abba's tv show in Saardrucken early Nov'82,I 've known that the band had some "security issues" while filming this.Agnetha had a lil panic attack while getting mobbed by over- enthousiastic fans and had to be calmed down before coming back on stage for the "all artists finale".If you watch carefully she still looked a little "lost" n out of place.Frida though didn't seem to care at all she simply enjoyed it.I think that many fans that attented the show subconsiously felt that it was "the end" and that's why they stormed on stage to express their "don't go" statetment.Still keep issues of some German mags from Abba's late '82 TV appearences in my parents house btw.Chronological order was London 6th Nov. Satuday superstore/The late breakfast show,11th Nov.Germany Thommy's popshow/Sarrdrucken "show-express,Sweden 19th Nov.Nojesmaskinen tv talk show and finally 11th December'82 via sattelite to UK show The Late breakfast show again,performing IHAD/UA.That was also i think the very last time Abba appeared all together as an active group ever,until VOYAGE comeback" unofficial" photo sessions.
@@bobbysbrother137p.s Hope i didn't tire you B'sb with all these timeline details on ABBA's final '82 appearences as an active group but since i know you're such a "searcher" i thought it might intersest you if you already didn't know by now.Many of them i do very vividly remember,while others i had to slightly refresh my memory after taking a quick look at the fantastic work done in the" Abba Omnibus blog" site to be sure.
Hi, you suprised me again with something I did'n know - the melody in the beggining of the Movie. I allways wondered why the movie is starting with a country tune, there is the answer, thank you!👏👏👏
They're always in for surprises, and I'm glad you got something new to discover. It's always nice to see these details in context. I agree with what you've said about Björn. Thanks for your kind comments, Diana!
HEJ GAMLE MAN! A BIG FAVE FROM ALBUM: LYCKA. THE LATEST COUNTRY VIBE, FROM BJØRN AND BENNY, IS: I CAN BE THAT WOMAN, FROM VOYAGE. A TOTAL MASTERPIECE. 🥰😍😍🥰
Eu espero que o abba produz outro álbum com músicas tão lindas quanto as do álbum voyage abba melhor grupo musical do mundo a Suécia deve ter o maior orgulho do abba Agnetha e Frida são as melhores vocalistas de todas as gerações parabéns a esse quarteto tão maravilhoso que nuncaaa vão serem esquecidos sou fã desde o começo da carreira do grupo abba Brasil
Frida has said that she is open to doing more music with the group. So maybe she could be the push that can lead to possibly more music and hopefully a pay-per-view where they could really perform and not with avatars.
I also think of the medley of Midnight Special, Pick a Bale Of Cotton, and On top of Old Smokey. The girls could sing the ingredients off a cereal box and make it sound good.
I've got both the Swedish and German versions of "Hej gamle man!' but it's great to finally hear an English version of the song. (Similarly, It'd be interesting to hear an English version of the B-side of that German single.) This is the first I've heard of the ABBA band producing an entire album as 'Nashville Train' - I'd assumed it was just used as a pseudonym for that one track at the start of ABBA: The Movie.
Thanks for the heads up about Nashville Train. I'm listening to the album now on abbakira's RUclips channel - I can't believe I missed this great album.
Thanks Andrew. I really enjoy the "Lycka" period. If you're referring to "Was die Liebe sagt" (b-side to the German single of "Hej, gamle man!"), I might be able to help you out with that. The Swedish original is "Livet går sin gång" from "Lycka". But there *is* an English version. It's called "Language of Love" and was recorded by Lena Andersson in 1971 for her album "Lena, 15". Moreover, Björn & Benny performed this English version live at a Spanish song festival in '71, which has only very recently surfaced as a snippet. Here it is: ruclips.net/video/2KC0JAE-_p0/видео.html
@@bobbysbrother137 Thanks for the information about Lena Andersson's, "Language of Love": it's much appreciated - I've managed to find the track on RUclips on the ABBAinternet OFFICIAL channel. She's got such a beautiful voice. Today's been a real education for me on all things ABBA.
@@andrewhelm2813 Haha, no Wednesday should go to waste not to be devoted to some ABBA education. Very happy you discovered something new. Enjoy these great tracks from the past!
I'm doubtful, since they never released their special songs for Birthdays to the wider public. It's unfortunate, it would be a wonderful release, but I'm happy we got a great version via TV broadcast at least!
Thanks for the link. Another channel, Abba Obscura, has a sonically even more excellent version of the album available. Listen here: ruclips.net/video/mebsxIjbuA0/видео.html
I am really a big ABBA fan. But omg this can only be a parody. The outfit of Björn, the shot at the truck, a "cowboy" who is afraid of a horse ... HELP !!!
Of course it's kinda parody.It's a humouristic fun-made video exclusively done to surprise Thomas Ledin whom Abba have worked for years even touring together.He even made fun of himself hinting about being older now.So you' re on point too.It's healthy that he's so down to earth and know that he doesn;t need to pretend being kinda trendy.Thomas had also done a duet with Agnetha in early '80s "Never Again" was a hit in central Europe btw also recorded in Spanish.
The video is absolutely a most wonderful parody! Everything you pointed out, Sulamith - Björn always plays these things dead-serious, that's what I find the most hilarious, haha.
Why would anyone having an affection for ABBA say sth. like this to any of their members? I don't see anything pathetic about Björn recording a parodic song for a friend as a personal message. Your label sounds quite harsh and insulting really, unless it wasn't intended that way?
It’s so good to see the members of ABBA just enjoying making music for its own sake.
God bless those good old bands that still keeping their voices alive. Because they are keeping us alive
This is fascinating my friend! ABBA as a group and the individuals within it never cease to amaze me! What a lovely thing to do for his friend. You could see how much Tomas appreciated it as he watched it. Any group with quality reflects diverse influences in their "deep cuts". ABBA are rightly praised for their peerless hit singles. But they are so much more as this examples demonstrates. I am not keen on country as a musical genre, yet I love "I Can Be That Woman" and this sounds fantastic. And, yes, Björn looks truly amazing for a man who is 77 next month! He exudes something so wholesome. He is adorable to me!
It was such a joy to peer into a more 'special' subject and look at all these connections. Yes, they're always in for these wonderful surprises. Thanks for your appreciative comment my friend!
The best anti-dot against hubris, is the ability to self-mockery. ABBA always were masters in that.
Björn brought that to perfection,with his lyrics here.
Notice his mocking the quest for immortality:"I recommend an avatar....to stay forever young!
Also closing the circle to "Voyage"
AFLOVEable Totally agreed, You so wisely said it all!
@@alexioverdo5225 Thank you❤
On point. And Björn's way to play these hilarious situations dead-serious is the most wonderful. They are masters indeed!
I have to give it to Bjorn: what a way to celebrate an old friend! Hilarious and precious. Abba have had that wonderful quality about them of never taking themselves too seriously.
Bill Corgan frontman of alt-rock band Smashing Pumpkins said some years back "they had(Abba) that right combination of fun beauty,not taking it too seriously but being deadly in the studio/i wish pop world today had an Abba" also praising Agnetha as one of his most fave singers of all time!
@@alexioverdo5225 hi there! Yes, I agree: hard working perfectionists, absolutely deadly in the studio and still able to laugh at themselves
@@debs4672Hey Debs! Last but not least,its unbelievable how many times you hear voices from fellow musicians praising ABBA from an unexpectedly different music genre.Seems they also do an exception for them,as opposed to some rock critics.Smashing Pumpkin's frontman also named Agnetha's solo lp "I STAND ALONE" as "a lost treasure" not to mention that guy from SLIPKNOT(!)leaderman Corey Taylor stating his a big fan praising Abba for sounding clearly different from all others,having "full spectrum lush production" and that his fave one is TACOM! That was "always my jam"/"when i put it on ,i'm instantly in good mood" he told amongst others.Now that's shockingly great to admit!
@@alexioverdo5225 SLIPKNOT 🤡 respect!
Love the song...since I first heard it, I must played it a few times a day. "Hej Gamle Man" is also my favorite pre-ABBA song. I myself just celebrated my 63rd birthday and can easily identity with the lyrics. Puts a smile on this older man's face!
So cool how much you enjoy Björn's new song. "Hej, gamle man!" is very catchy and a great recording, good sound. I wish you a very Happy late Birthday, Michael!
Another great insight BB into the world of ABBA. the tribute to his life long friend by Byorn is truly exceptional..he epitomizes everything we always knew about his & Benny's talent for writing & composing music 🎶 👌. He is also looking bloody good for his years too so it's certainly keeping him young!!!! There will never be song writing of their ilk & we are so lucky this has happened in our life time..! Keep up the great work ypu put in place to keep us 'mortals' educated BB.
Their songwriting is par excellence. All four of them continue to produce excellent music and projects, for them and for us. They've always stayed true to themselves. And I'm forever grateful for being a part of this experience, and cherish it all. Thanks for your nice words, David!
Thank you for keeping us updated! This is really interesting. The many threads of ABBAs creativity are fun to follow. Since they have come back I’ve really turned into a fanboy😂
Wow, that's super cool to read, Joseph. What a way of turning into a fan with this whole "Voyage" project and ABBA being back in the world! Thanks for the kind words!
Thank you! I thought I knew almost everything about ABBA but I always learn more from your videos. When people ask me my favorite movie of all time, the answer is always easy "ABBA The Movie" because 1/2 the movie shows ABBA live in concert in Australia in 1977. "ABBA The Movie" is considered the Bible among ABBA fans.
On my review about the film (which you'll find on my channel) I said that even objectively speaking, "ABBA: The Movie" is a terrific cinematic experience, a perfect musical film. It's almost flawless, and so inventive. Director Lasse Hallström - and the band - are at one of their finest hours. I'm so happy you enjoyed my video and found something new again. Even for me, it's always thrilling to put it all together and contextualize these things. Thanks for your kind words, William!
The song and video immediately put a smile on my face. I love the country re-arrangement and Björn's new lyrics! Of course, "Hej, gamle man" will always hold special significance, being the song that started it all, and the rest is history...! By the way, "Burning My Bridges" is one of my favorite unreleased ABBA songs, and I definitely think it should have been released! I especially love the intro!
As so often, I completely agree with you here, Marike. "Burning My Bridges" is one of my personal favorites from "ABBA Undeleted", as is "Givin' A Little Bit More" - Björn is vocally in top form, despite them being demos only.
@@bobbysbrother137 Yup, "Givin' A Little Bit More" is great, too, beautiful harmonies, among other things!
@@marikesl And such a melancholic mood, perfectly capturing that "Visitors" period.
This is amazing Bjorn shows how he and Benny are so creative and talented, they can write and play music of every genre and maybe even invent a few more.Here Bjorn crosses a folk song into pure country, his English lyrics are superb ,the band incredible,they nailed it .Bjorns performance of this song reminds me of a famous American country singer, Tom T Hall and in particular a song called "Old Dogs children and Watermelon Wine",look on you tube and listen to it ,tell me what you think BB .This song really shows how Bjorn can adapt a Swedish folk song into an American style country song and the transition is perfect and beautiful, this is why ABBA inspire and affect our minds and hearts they are pure perfection ,and are the sorcerers of magical and mystical music and they dwell in our souls for eternity
Thanks for recommending Tom T. Hall's song! This was beautiful, with very tender vocals. I can see the comparison to Björn's adaptation.
@@bobbysbrother137 I forgot to mention ABBAs other country song ,WELL medely really ,the b side to Summer night city ,pick a bale of cotton,on top of old smokey and midnight special ,that is superb and the girls vocals so pure and definitively country,I just love it.
@@michaelsnaidero1671 You're absolutely right. Their only song not written by themselves, and yet it's a real gem for me! They nail this so much and even turn traditional songs into their own trademark. And as a medley, it's absolutely flawless. Top-notch production!
You did it again.Excellent video editing that "keep one's mind busy" till the end.You are an adorable master of accurate researching!"Lycka" btw is a song i like in English version by BJORN(To live with you).Despite it's rather stripped production (from very early '70s) it's quite impactful and has beautiful lyrics.Frida's version in Swedish is also very very beautiful with her warm "honey cinamom" flavoured voice no matter if i don't understand the words. p.s.0:09.Luv Benny's "Santa Claus promising smile" reflecting his joyful viral mood.
Could not agree more with everything you said, Alexio. "Lycka" is a wonderful composition, the English demo version is beautiful and I'm so glad they agreed to release it after many decades. And Frida's version - simply to melt away! I really appreciate your wonderful feedback and I'm so happy you enjoyed this video. It's one of my personal favorites now, because digging into these unique subjects is always thrilling, and trying to combine all these puzzle pieces into a coherent theme is a lot of fun. I just hope that my pace isn't too overwhelming with so many details to go through. Again, many thanks my friend!!
Wow, Bobby. What a treat. I truly enjoyed it. Thank you.
Hey Carlos, thanks a lot, really appreciate that! It was equally joyful to put this together. Cheers!
As always a fun and informative video bb enjoyed it and take care friend
Thanks again Bobby’s Brother for another fascinating video full of information. I look forward to every new video you post. I hope there will be an official single release of Bjorn’s “Hey Grand Old Man”, a terrific solo performance. 💕🤗
Hej, absamdb! It's always a lot of fun to put these videos together. I'm very humbled how you and many others want to see it. Thanks for your very kind feedback. Let's hope for that single release. It would be grand!
Rumour has it that Benny was rehearsing in studio with VOYAGE's backing vocalists for the Abbatar shows the album track THE VISITORS!Wow!I do wish some surprise album deep cuts to be included in the set list such as Move On/IIWFTN/OMOW/OLS/STMF/KOF.Fans will go crazy!And also some big ones they never did live.TWTIA/OOU/TDBYC.But I guess we can't have everything we want to be included in that list of 19-22 songs.And would also luv to see them doing "The Way Old Friends Do" as an encore live in flesh n blood at the premier that special night.Oh my..I'm such a fool,greedy dreamer.
Hey there BB😊oh how I loved the way Frida introduced Bjorn onto the stage, so sweetly her voice is💖...Oh and to see the coins in his guitar suitcase lol was funny to see, as if he needs it huh? Lol.😂....Oh yes I'm a country gal at heart BB😊I think his voice is suited to sing country music now... like me he's floated into another genre of style in music lol! I love country music always have and always will😊thankyou for that pleasant review on Bjorns new song...Grand Old Man....I love it very much💙...Okay until next time be seeing you soon Bobby's Brother.😊 takecare, stay well, and stay safe xo.
You really keep me smiling, Sheree. Thanks for your appreciation!! Cheers!
It suits Björn so well, and ABBA in general, to go with the country vibe, as their main influence was always Schlager music at heart, and part of their overall appeal. Country music is also composed with guitars (Björn's favorite instrument), and smells of forests, mist, and bonfires. Abba always touched the "country",or local music, in different styles such as Eagle (with Native American hints), Fernando (Spanish-esque), Summer Night City (Arabian hints), and the heavily Celtic-influenced When you Danced with Me, The Piper, and some others. Anyhow, what a touching tribute to his friend and long-time collaborator Tomas Ledin, very much like Hovas Vittne. That young energetic boy in the backing band is now a grand old man...how time flies. Huge hugs for the sweet knowledgeable grand ole Bobby's Brother.
Thank you so much, dear Marcelo, for these nice words. A great run-through of ABBA's "exotic" musical adventures, what a joy to read. But am I really grand and ole yet? Oh dear, haha. Cheers!
@@bobbysbrother137 Oh, well, certainly not in age, but grand in all the immense knowledge you share, and ole, because your warmth makes you come across as an old friend.
Great work as always BB. Thanks for this insightful piece and for the nice bits you put together to make the video. Now I'm away to search for Nashville Train.
Thanks, Ed. It was a joy to put it all together. Hope you enjoy the album!
This was a fun one and great to see Bjorn celebrating his friend’s birthday.
Hey grand old man was recorded as a Birthday gift card to the Swedish singer/Songwriter Thomas Ledin on his 70s birthday. Thomas was one of their backup singers back in the 1970sThey did similar things on their manager Stickan Andersons 50 year birthday back in the 70s
And what a catchy tune that was, "Hovas vittne"!
С юности до сегодняшнего дня АББА всегда рядом. Когда-то заучивание наизусть и перевод текста песен со словарем, подбор музыки с магнитофона. И сейчас, в машине флешка с музыкой АББА, чтобы иногда привести чувства и мысли в порядок.
A lot of the comments have already covered what i intended to say...just to reiterate then, that your post was very informative to perhaps the younger generation who are just discovering the joys and talent of ABBA.To hear about their early days and releases at the time.I adore Bjorns' new lyrics to this song.. showing his sense of fun and the way in which he wanted to show appreciation for his friend. He sounds great and does not look his age at all! What's your secret Bjorn!? 😀.Thankyou for another great video as always.👍🤗
Oh, it's such a joy for younger generations to discover ABBA, let alone all these fascinating and somewhat mystic facets. That's what was so intriguing for me all those years ago. It's very nice you mentioned that aspect. Many thanks, Janet!!
I loved this new version of Hej Gamle Man :) And every detail about it, from 1970 to 2022 :)
Me too, it's all so fascinating to me!
Great celebration of Tomas Ledin. What a gesture! ❤️
So nice to listen Björn's voice, such a longtime without a solo :) you have chosen the theme "Country music" but it would be very interesting also to make a theme about the "funny" things made by Abba (such as Björn in "welcome to Sweden" show) or the numerous TV Shows or movies which indirectly use Abba (Muriel, Priscilla, Will & Grace, the simpsons, Malcom, that's 70's show etc...)
Thanks for the ideas, noted!
I love the song. I love the video. I love that at his age Bjorn seems to be on a bit on a tear and in a good way. It's really kinda remarkable how close to home that song hit's.
Well said. And he continues being curious about all kind of things. Serious, humorous, self-parodistic, musically, entrepreneurial.
Another very entertaining and informative story! I'm amazed at the thorough research, the videos and your deep understanding of ABBA's music, and background. It's like an awaited news cast, or a short documentary film...
Hej
It’s really a cute and beautifully presented tribute to his friend Thomas 🙌 I really enjoy Bjorns vocal delivery and his voice is still fantastic very skilled but humorous video aswel 😂 Bjorn reminds me of Johnny Cash vocaly within this special tribute 👍
Hej abbascots. Yes, he sounds great - not too far away from Johnny Cash I'd agree, haha! Who would have thought there's a forgotten Country singer in Björn?
Haha 😆
It's great to see Bjorn doing a fun song! I hope he and Benny keep writing!
Yes, it's so much fun. I'm sure they will continue to work together! :-)
Hey Hey Bobby, Bjorn’s had my heart since day one so putting him in cowboy regalia after the wild ,crazy ,disco years is quite a stretch . Even though cowboys are a common sight here it seems more ludicrous to see him in that then before .
Can’t deny that at 77 he still looks terrific.
I do like the song and a fitting tribute to his life long friend and as a ballad it’s a good one. As you know ABBA was the for runner of MTV, still, a Swedish cowboy, hmm, I could get use to it.
Once again,enlightening.🤠🇺🇸
Oh Fritzie, I know you'll take Björn just the way he is, haha. Thanks for stopping by. Always appreciate your input!
@@bobbysbrother137 As they say “ Some of the best tunes are often played on old instruments”! 🎶🎶🎶😂
Buena Bjorn, genial, felicitaciones!!!!!
Grand Old Man is hilarious, can't stop listening.:)
And such an ear-worm!
also check out the 1974 recording SVEA SVEA by Rutger (Gunnarsson) with backing vocals by Agnetha and Frida. Country & western music style.
Yes!! A lovely novelty recording - thanks for pointing this one out and adding it to our "ABBA goes Country"-list. And again, this one started life as a B&B composition in 1971, and was even performed by them during a spring & summer tour '71 together with Agnetha.
Björn has such a great sense of humour - really mocking himself with the cowboy boots and the busking! What does he take out of the fridge/freezer in the supermarket by the way? Anyone know?
I was surprised you mentioned TACOM as having elements of country music without mentioning the much more obvious C&W style of One Man, One Woman from the same album. And that's the song that I Can Be That Woman is most reminiscent of.
And Bobby, thank you for your sensitive editing of clips from The Movie. I have never listened to that Nashville Train album and I'm about to! :-)
"One Man, One Woman" should definitely be included in our list. They were exploring American sounds and themes for their 1977 album, so it seems natural how much C&W influences got into some of the songs. Thanks for all your input and great feedback, Sian. I took your advice to heart, nice you noticed it. Always great to see you here. Let me know if you enjoy the album!
Cool New Country Song fm Bjorn...Cheers fm Damo.
UPDATE:
Universal Music Sweden has shared the link to Björn's video. Listen to the song and watch the video here: ruclips.net/video/FPIV-6GnRDg/видео.html
Also, listen to Nashville Train's "ABBA Our Way" (1976) here - kudos to Abba Obscura for the sonically most excellent version available: ruclips.net/video/mebsxIjbuA0/видео.html
Please take note that some more ABBA songs with country elements have been pointed out to me:
1) "Medley: Pick A Bale Of Cotton/On Top Of Old Smokey/Midnight Special"
2) "One Man, One Woman" (which in turn does have its thematic connections to "I Can Be That Woman" as well)
Furthermore, songs that touch country or local music in different styles: "Fernando" (Spanish-esque), "Eagle" (Native American hints), "Summer Night City" (Arabian hints), and the Celtic-influenced "The Piper" and "When You Danced With Me".
The 1974 single "Svea, Svea" by Rutger (Gunnarsson) also has country & western style. It started life as an unreleased Björn & Benny recording in 1971 and features backing vocals by Agnetha and Frida (that are still intact on the 1974 version). In 1971, Björn, Benny and Agnetha even performed the song live during their spring/summer tour.
Many thanks to michael snaidero, Ard Luijten, Adam Ross, Sian Williams, Marcelo Sandoval, kimbozw for these additions, and to all the others for your *great* contributions!
!Summernight city -Arabian hints?!!!Well believe it or not,BANANARAMA did a live club tour performance with "Arabian hints" instrumentation and it sounded really exotic!clicked so perfectly.Had seen that in utube couple of years back.
B'sB' i see that you use fans reaction footage very often in your videos(which i love it) from '77/79 tours.I remember reading in a book"Abba In their own words" i think it was BJORN stating that he had been reading fan mail on people describing how deep they feel about Abba.I've seen a lot of unedited footage in the net from news(Aussie tv- fans queing for tickets/Swedish reports/Uk '77 tour fans' reactions reports)also '82 German show express(The unedited"Underattack" finale) with fans rushing on stage grabbing n kissing Frida and stuff,that will be a very delightfull material to collect and do a video on Abba fans' reactions in time.I can't think of any other band having so loyal fans after 4 decades of hiatus and still feel so emotional on them.It's quite remarkable.
That's a very nice observation of yours, I never consciously noticed it! These things happen intuitively, since I'm putting the footage together according to my inner feelings, so it's cool how you point this out. I've included the crazy "Show Express 1982" reaction in my video "Top 5 ABBA Television Moments", and a similar reaction of fans rushing on stage to grab and kiss Frida is included in my review of her "Shine" album, when I ask for fans' memories of the time. Always nice to see you here. Thanks, Alexio!!
@@bobbysbrother137Well i gotta revisit your videos you mentioned about it immediatetly .lol.As for Abba's tv show in Saardrucken early Nov'82,I 've known that the band had some "security issues" while filming this.Agnetha had a lil panic attack while getting mobbed by over- enthousiastic fans and had to be calmed down before coming back on stage for the "all artists finale".If you watch carefully she still looked a little "lost" n out of place.Frida though didn't seem to care at all she simply enjoyed it.I think that many fans that attented the show subconsiously felt that it was "the end" and that's why they stormed on stage to express their "don't go" statetment.Still keep issues of some German mags from Abba's late '82 TV appearences in my parents house btw.Chronological order was London 6th Nov. Satuday superstore/The late breakfast show,11th Nov.Germany Thommy's popshow/Sarrdrucken "show-express,Sweden 19th Nov.Nojesmaskinen tv talk show and finally 11th December'82 via sattelite to UK show The Late breakfast show again,performing IHAD/UA.That was also i think the very last time Abba appeared all together as an active group ever,until VOYAGE comeback" unofficial" photo sessions.
@@bobbysbrother137p.s Hope i didn't tire you B'sb with all these timeline details on ABBA's final '82 appearences as an active group but since i know you're such a "searcher" i thought it might intersest you if you already didn't know by now.Many of them i do very vividly remember,while others i had to slightly refresh my memory after taking a quick look at the fantastic work done in the" Abba Omnibus blog" site to be sure.
Hi, you suprised me again with something I did'n know - the melody in the beggining of the Movie. I allways wondered why the movie is starting with a country tune, there is the answer, thank you!👏👏👏
And yes, I like the way they make a song into another song and I like Bjorn and the video, very clever man he is!
They're always in for surprises, and I'm glad you got something new to discover. It's always nice to see these details in context. I agree with what you've said about Björn. Thanks for your kind comments, Diana!
HEJ GAMLE MAN! A BIG FAVE FROM ALBUM: LYCKA. THE LATEST COUNTRY VIBE, FROM BJØRN AND BENNY, IS: I CAN BE THAT WOMAN, FROM VOYAGE. A TOTAL MASTERPIECE. 🥰😍😍🥰
Love the lyrics!
Vielen Dank für ihre Informationen zu Björn und ABBA ❤️ ... Ich freue mich ! Ihnen alles Gute .
Herzlichen Dank, Susanne!
Björn is definately having lots of fun.
Eu espero que o abba produz outro álbum com músicas tão lindas quanto as do álbum voyage abba melhor grupo musical do mundo a Suécia deve ter o maior orgulho do abba Agnetha e Frida são as melhores vocalistas de todas as gerações parabéns a esse quarteto tão maravilhoso que nuncaaa vão serem esquecidos sou fã desde o começo da carreira do grupo abba Brasil
Pensamentos maravilhosos!
Never been a big fan of country but this was an interesting segment….
Thanks Gary, I thought so, too. It was a fascinating digression to dig into!
I look forward with anticipation when we get the voyage shows and your segments in it hope your going to see it I do in June!!!!!! Super trooper
@@garydiamond8124 Me too! Exciting days ahead.
This is interesting. Never knew Bjorn did a song in country.
amazing!
Is ABBA planning to come out with more new songs? Any news?
No news about that. We'll see if there's something in the next few weeks or not!
Frida has said that she is open to doing more music with the group. So maybe she could be the push that can lead to possibly more music and hopefully a pay-per-view where they could really perform and not with avatars.
A Grea Song Absolutely
IV booked for the Abba tar concerts. ..exited ...isn't it sad how time moves on ?...
Enjoy the show and all the excitement with it! Very cool.
@@bobbysbrother137 thanks man
I also think of the medley of Midnight Special, Pick a Bale Of Cotton, and On top of Old Smokey. The girls could sing the ingredients off a cereal box and make it sound good.
I've got both the Swedish and German versions of "Hej gamle man!' but it's great to finally hear an English version of the song. (Similarly, It'd be interesting to hear an English version of the B-side of that German single.)
This is the first I've heard of the ABBA band producing an entire album as 'Nashville Train' - I'd assumed it was just used as a pseudonym for that one track at the start of ABBA: The Movie.
Thanks for the heads up about Nashville Train. I'm listening to the album now on abbakira's RUclips channel - I can't believe I missed this great album.
Thanks Andrew. I really enjoy the "Lycka" period. If you're referring to "Was die Liebe sagt" (b-side to the German single of "Hej, gamle man!"), I might be able to help you out with that. The Swedish original is "Livet går sin gång" from "Lycka". But there *is* an English version. It's called "Language of Love" and was recorded by Lena Andersson in 1971 for her album "Lena, 15". Moreover, Björn & Benny performed this English version live at a Spanish song festival in '71, which has only very recently surfaced as a snippet. Here it is:
ruclips.net/video/2KC0JAE-_p0/видео.html
@@bobbysbrother137 Thanks for the information about Lena Andersson's, "Language of Love": it's much appreciated - I've managed to find the track on RUclips on the ABBAinternet OFFICIAL channel. She's got such a beautiful voice. Today's been a real education for me on all things ABBA.
@@andrewhelm2813 Haha, no Wednesday should go to waste not to be devoted to some ABBA education. Very happy you discovered something new. Enjoy these great tracks from the past!
A very nice song. Is Bjorn going to release this so we can buy it - maybe on Spotify or one of the other digital platforms?
I'm doubtful, since they never released their special songs for Birthdays to the wider public. It's unfortunate, it would be a wonderful release, but I'm happy we got a great version via TV broadcast at least!
Ti ringrazio tantissimo per i sottotitoli in italiano grazie grazie mille.
Prego. D'ora in poi per tutti voi!
@6:05 - I can't find this group in Apple Music. Is it not available for streaming?
En hyllning till Tomas Ledin.... 🤩
It's act. an old pre-ABBA song (in Swedish) by Björn in a new disguise and now with new English lyrics.
Bjorn and Benny should rework/modernize the lyrics of the amazing song "Sunny Girl" and re-release it. It would be a hit again!
Thomas Ledin is married to ABBAS former manager Stickan Anderssons daughter. So there You have the connection.
Here is the complete Nashville Train album “ABBA Our Way”. ruclips.net/p/PLJ6XIfBnkU8gHBPSIpSIlNFO2gQAMcAze
Thanks for the link. Another channel, Abba Obscura, has a sonically even more excellent version of the album available. Listen here: ruclips.net/video/mebsxIjbuA0/видео.html
On top of old smokey was also kind off country
I want to be forever Freud.
Abba. did all different types of music early on
If it's Bjorn by himself, It is not ABBA.
A OK...................................................Bill Bickley uk
I am really a big ABBA fan. But omg this can only be a parody.
The outfit of Björn, the shot at the truck, a "cowboy" who is afraid of a horse ...
HELP !!!
Of course it's kinda parody.It's a humouristic fun-made video exclusively done to surprise Thomas Ledin whom Abba have worked for years even touring together.He even made fun of himself hinting about being older now.So you' re on point too.It's healthy that he's so down to earth and know that he doesn;t need to pretend being kinda trendy.Thomas had also done a duet with Agnetha in early '80s "Never Again" was a hit in central Europe btw also recorded in Spanish.
The video is absolutely a most wonderful parody! Everything you pointed out, Sulamith - Björn always plays these things dead-serious, that's what I find the most hilarious, haha.
@@bobbysbrother137
👍 🙈 😂
At first I thought it was seriously a new single ... hahaha
@@alexioverdo5225
Thanx Alexio for your explanation 👍
@@sulamithmaharaj5298 Haha, well...I WISH it was! xD
please change your mind was recorded by another swedish band with a female singer
Abba is great but Bjorn is so pathetic.
Why would anyone having an affection for ABBA say sth. like this to any of their members? I don't see anything pathetic about Björn recording a parodic song for a friend as a personal message. Your label sounds quite harsh and insulting really, unless it wasn't intended that way?
Let's just pretend this never happened. 🍋
No, not my cup of tea
Класс!!!обожаю!