In 1974 a Swedish quartet named after an acronym of the first letters of their first names won the Eurovision Song Contest. The incessantly catchy, metaphorical song was ‘Waterloo’ and the band was ABBA…

This win propelled the quartet into global prominence with their traditionalist persona being just as popular as their songs. Unlike the defiant rock ‘n’ roll scene, ABBA’s understated Swedish-ness produced song lyrics that unearthed the daydreams of people who never wanted to rebel. Their popularity grew into mass stardom.

The band was made up of two married couples, Agnetha Fältskog and Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. From 1974 to 1983 they continually topped the charts even after their dissolve in 1982. Unlike any other music group, their legacy continues on constant repeat thanks to musicals like ‘Mamma Mia’.

It’s safe to say ABBA influenced the sound of pop music for years to come. We hope you will enjoy this gallery which forms some great images from their career of being the worlds (let alone Sweden’s) most popular pop band.