About the song
In the annals of pop music, ABBA stands as a towering presence, their infectious melodies and timeless lyrics captivating audiences for generations. One of their most beloved tracks, “One of Us,” serves as a poignant farewell to their era of chart-topping success and a testament to their enduring artistry.
Released in 1981 as the lead single from their eighth studio album, The Visitors, “One of Us” marked a departure from the upbeat, carefree sound that had defined ABBA’s earlier hits. The song delves into deeper, more introspective territory, exploring themes of love, loss, and longing. Agnetha Fältskog’s emotive vocals convey the raw vulnerability of a woman seeking to rekindle a past relationship, her voice filled with both hope and despair.
The song’s melancholic tone is further enhanced by the haunting melody and lush orchestral arrangements. The interplay between the soaring strings and Fältskog’s heartfelt delivery creates a powerful and evocative atmosphere. While “One of Us” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of ABBA’s earlier hits, it has garnered critical acclaim and remains a fan favorite.
Despite its poignant lyrics and somber tone, “One of Us” is a testament to ABBA’s enduring songwriting prowess. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level has ensured its lasting legacy. As ABBA’s final major hit, “One of Us” stands as a poignant reminder of their extraordinary talent and enduring impact on popular music.
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Lyrics
They pass me by
All of those great romances
It’s as if you’re robbing me of my rightful chances
My picture clear, everything seemed so easy
And so I dealt you the blow
One of us had to go
Now it’s different, I want you to know
One of us is crying
One of us is lying
In her lonely bed
Staring at the ceiling
Wishing she was somewhere else instead
One of us is lonely
One of us is only
Waiting for a call
Sorry for himself, feeling stupid, feeling small
Wishing he had never left at all
I saw myself as a concealed attraction
I felt you kept me away from the heat and the action
Just like a child, stubborn and misconceiving
That’s how I started the show
One of us had to go
Now I’ve changed and I want you to know
One of us is crying
One of us is lying
In her lonely bed
Staring at the ceiling
Wishing she was somewhere else instead
One of us is lonely
One of us is only
Waiting for a call
Sorry for herself, feeling stupid, feeling small
Wishing she had never left at all
Never left at all
Staring at the ceiling
Wishing she was somewhere else instead