As the calendar turns to a new year, there’s a song that has become an anthem in celebrations around the world: ABBA’s “Happy New Year.” Released in 1980 as part of their final studio album Super Trouper, the song was initially a lesser-known track in comparison to the band’s numerous hits like “Dancing Queen” or “Mamma Mia.” However, over the years, it has grown into a beloved New Year’s anthem, synonymous with the hope and uncertainty that the dawn of a new year often brings.
“Happy New Year” is a reflection on the past and a hopeful look toward the future. With its poignant lyrics, the song resonates with people of all ages, offering a mix of nostalgia, optimism, and the bittersweet realisation of life’s fleeting nature. The opening lines express a sense of uncertainty: “No more champagne, and the fireworks are through…” Yet, as the song unfolds, the message shifts toward hope, unity, and the desire for a better tomorrow. The chorus, with its famous “Happy New Year, Happy New Year, may we all have a vision now and then,” captures this delicate balance between the challenges of the past year and the bright potential of the new one. We do a throwback to Abba’s Happy New Year song, watch here: