Last Updated:

2024-03-29 23:38:53

ABBA

Swedish pop supergroup formed in 1972.

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Swedish pop supergroup formed in 1972.

ABBA, acronym of members' names, topped charts worldwide. Won Eurovision in 1974. Disbanded in 1982, but remains one of the best-selling music acts. Reunited in 2016 for digital avatar concert tour. Released new album 'Voyage' in 2021. ABBA is one of the best-selling music artists in history, with numerous awards and accolades.

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1945-04-25

Birth of Björn Kristian Ulvaeus

Björn Kristian Ulvaeus was born on April 25, 1945 in Gothenburg, Sweden. He later became a guitarist in the folk band Hootenanny Singers.

1945-11-15

Birth of Anni-Frid Lyngstad (Frida)

Anni-Frid Lyngstad, also known as Frida, was born on November 15, 1945, near Narvik, Norway. She later became a prominent singer and member of the famous band ABBA.

1946-12-16

Birth of Göran Bror Benny Andersson

Göran Bror Benny Andersson, commonly known as Benny, was born on December 16, 1946 in Stockholm, Sweden. He showed musical talent from a young age and became a prominent musician.

1950-04-05

Agnetha Fältskog's Birthday

Agnetha Fältskog, a member of the famous band ABBA, was born on April 5th, 1950 in Jönköping. She started taking piano lessons at the age of 6 and began her singing career at the age of 13.

1963-01-26

Birth of Hans, Anni-Frid Lyngstad's Son

Anni-Frid Lyngstad's son, Hans, was born on January 26, 1963.

1963-08-20

Birth of Peter

Christina Grönvall's son, Peter, was born on August 20th, 1963.

1965-06-25

Birth of Helene

Christina Grönvall's daughter, Helene, was born on June 25th, 1965.

1967-02-25

Birth of Lise-Lotte, Anni-Frid Lyngstad's Daughter

Anni-Frid Lyngstad's daughter, Lise-Lotte, was born on February 25, 1967.

1967-09-03

Frida wins 'Nya ansikten' contest

Frida won the 'Nya ansikten' (New Faces) contest on September 3rd, 1967 by singing 'En ledig dag'.

1969-03-01

Meeting at Melodifestival

In March 1969, Anni-Frid Lyngstad participated in the Melodifestival where she met Benny Andersson for the first time.

1970-11-01

First Performance of ABBA Members Together

On November 1, 1970, the four members of ABBA performed together for the first time at 'Festfolk'. This marked a milestone in the band's journey towards international fame.

1971-07-06

Agnetha and Björn Wedding

Agnetha and Björn got married on July 6th, 1971 in Verum.

1971-07-07

Agnetha and Björn's Wedding

Agnetha and Björn, members of the band ABBA, got married on July 7, 1971 in Verum.

1972-04-30

ABBA's TV Appearance on 'Vi i femman'

ABBA made an appearance on the TV program 'Vi i femman' where they performed the song 'People Need Love'.

1973-01-06

ABBA's First Television Appearance in Germany

ABBA, then a nameless band, performed their first single 'People Need Love' on a German television program called Disco. Agnetha, who was 8 months pregnant, did not want to travel, so Inger Brundin stood in for her on stage.

1973-02-23

Birth of Linda

Linda, the daughter of Agnetha and Björn, was born on February 23rd, 1973.

1973-03-26

Release of ABBA's First Album 'Ring Ring'

ABBA released their debut album 'Ring Ring' which included popular songs like 'People Need Love', 'He is Your Brother', 'Love Isn't Easy', 'Another Town, Another Train', and more.

1974-04-06

ABBA wins Eurovision Song Contest with Waterloo

ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton, England with their song Waterloo, which became a huge international success. The single sold over 5 million copies and was broadcast in 54 countries.

1975-06-14

Release of 'S.O.S.'

ABBA released the song 'S.O.S.' on June 14, 1975, captivating audiences with their unique sound and style.

1976-06-18

Performance of 'Dancing Queen' on TV

On June 18th, ABBA performed 'Dancing Queen' on TV the evening before the royal wedding in Sweden. This single reached number one in America and the 'Arrival' album set a record for advance orders.

1976-08-16

Release of ABBA's iconic song Dancing Queen

ABBA performed their new song Dancing Queen at the Royal Opera House in Stockholm the day before the wedding of Swedish King Carl Gustaf and his fiancée Silvia Sommerlath. The song was released on August 16, 1976, and sold over 6 million copies worldwide.

1977-01-28

ABBA European and Australian Tour

In January 1977, ABBA embarked on their first major tour, starting in Oslo, Norway. The tour included a lavishly produced spectacle with scenes from their mini-operetta. It attracted huge media attention across Europe and Australia.

1977-03-03

ABBA Australian Tour Opening Concert in Sydney

ABBA played their opening concert in Sydney at the Sydney Showground to an audience of 20,000 people. The concert was marred by torrential rain, with member Lyngstad slipping on the wet stage. Despite the challenges, all four members considered this concert as the most memorable of their career.

1977-12-04

Birth of Christian

Christian, the son of Agnetha and Björn, was born on December 4th, 1977.

1977-12-12

Release of ABBA - The Album

On December 12, 1977, ABBA - The Album was released first in Scandinavia, followed by the world premiere of ABBA - The Movie in Sydney and Perth.

1978-02-16

ABBA The Movie Premiere in London

ABBA The Movie premiered in London on February 16th. It was made in wide screen format and four channel audio, becoming a hit in cinemas. The movie was a consolation for fans who missed the 1977 concerts and later released on video cassette.

1978-05-18

Completion of Polar Music Studios

On May 18, 1978, Polar Music Studios was completed, and ABBA was working on new hits. However, during this time, Björn and Agnetha's marriage faced escalating problems, eventually leading to Agnetha leaving Björn later in the year.

1978-10-06

Frida marries Benny

Frida and Benny got married on October 6th, 1978, during the peak of ABBA's success.

1978-12-25

Agnetha leaves Björn

On December 25, 1978, Agnetha left Björn and moved out of their villa with their two children. Despite their separation, the two continued to appear as a couple in public and remained members of ABBA.

1979-01-08

ABBA introduces Chiquitita at a UNICEF gala

On January 8, 1979, ABBA introduced their song Chiquitita at a UNICEF gala in New York. The song, incorporating Spanish language, became a worldwide hit and raised funds for UNICEF.

1979-01-09

ABBA performs 'Chiquitita' at the Music for UNICEF Concert

On January 9, 1979, ABBA performed 'Chiquitita' at the Music for UNICEF Concert at the United Nations General Assembly, donating the copyright of the hit song to UNICEF. The single was released the following week and achieved number-one status in ten countries.

1979-06-14

Reissue of ABBA's Voulez-Vous Album

ABBA's Voulez-Vous album was reissued in multiple formats including a 2LP half-speed 180g vinyl and a coloured-vinyl 7" single box set on June 14, 1979.

1979-09-13

ABBA: The Tour Begins in Edmonton, Canada

ABBA started their tour at Northlands Coliseum in Edmonton, Canada, performing to a full house of 14,000 fans. The concert received rave reviews for the band's excellent vocal performances.

1979-09-15

First concert in America

ABBA performed their first concert in America on September 15, 1979 in Vancouver.

1979-10-19

ABBA: The Tour Resumes in Western Europe

After the North American leg, ABBA resumed their tour in Western Europe, playing 23 sold-out gigs, including six nights at London's Wembley Arena.

1980-07-02

Agnetha and Björn Divorce

On July 2, 1980, Agnetha and Björn officially divorced, marking the end of their marriage.

1980-11-01

Release of 'Super Trouper'

On November 1, 1980, ABBA released their album 'Super Trouper'.

1981-11-30

Release of ABBA's Last Album 'The Visitors'

ABBA began recording their last album, The Visitors, in March 1981 and it was released with nine tracks on November 30, 1981. The album reflected the personal crises of the band members and contained songs about parting and fear of war.

1981-12-31

Debut of ABBA's single 'When All Is Said and Done' on US charts

ABBA's single 'When All Is Said and Done' debuted on the US charts on 31 December 1981, becoming their final Top 40 hit in the US.

1982-11-19

ABBA's Last Appearance in Sweden

On 19 November 1982, ABBA made their final appearance in Sweden on the TV programme Nöjesmaskinen.

1982-12-11

ABBA's Last Group Performance

On December 11, 1982, ABBA performed as a group for the last time on The Late Late Breakfast Show, singing the songs I Have a Dream and Under Attack via satellite. The members announced a break of the band ABBA, which is considered as a breakup retrospectively.

1985

Recording of Gemini's self-titled album

Karin and Anders Glenmark, known as 'Gemini', recorded their self-titled album which included songs written by Björn and Benny, including 'Just Like That' previously recorded by ABBA.

1987

Release of Agnetha's second English solo album 'Eyes Of A Woman'

Agnetha released her second English solo album 'Eyes Of A Woman'. The album featured the hit song 'I Won't Let You Go' which she co-wrote with producer Eric Stewart.

1988

Benny's Solo Album 'Klinga Mina Klockor'

Benny released his debut solo album titled 'Klinga Mina Klockor'. Frida contributed as part of the background choir.

1989

Benny's second solo album 'November 1989'

Benny completed his second solo album titled 'November 1989'. The track 'Stockholm By Night' was featured in the film 'Den hemliga vännen'.

1992-06

U2 Concert Homage to ABBA

During a concert in Stockholm in June 1992, U2 paid homage to ABBA by inviting Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson on stage to perform 'Dancing Queen'. This collaboration highlighted the influence and recognition of ABBA in the music industry.

1992-09

Release of ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits

In September 1992, ABBA released 'ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits', a compilation album that became one of the best-selling albums worldwide. The album included popular hits like 'Dancing Queen' and contributed to ABBA's enduring legacy.

1995

Premiere of 'Kristina från Duvemåla'

'Kristina från Duvemåla', Benny & Björn's new musical, had its premiere on October 7th, 1995 in Malmö. The musical is about Swedish emigrants.

1997-10-12

Performance of 'Kristina från Duvemåla' in Minneapolis

'Kristina från Duvemåla' was performed in Swedish in Minneapolis, USA on October 12th. A triple CD of the musical is now available from Mono Music, and the show returned to Malmö.

1998-09-12

Stig Anderson, ABBA's ex-manager, passes away

ABBA's former manager, Stig Anderson, died of a heart attack on September 12th.

1999-04-06

Premiere of ABBA Musical 'Mamma Mia!'

On April 6th, 1999, the ABBA musical 'Mamma Mia!' premiered at London's Prince Edward Theatre. This musical marked a significant moment in ABBA's legacy and became a huge success worldwide.

2001-06

Benny releases 'Benny Anderssons Orkester' album

In June 2001, Benny Andersson released his third album titled 'Benny Anderssons Orkester'.

2002-02-23

Swedish staging of 'Chess' premieres at Cirkus in Stockholm

In February 23, 2002, the Swedish staging of 'Chess' debuted at the Cirkus in Stockholm. The double album 'Chess på Svenska' was released by Mono Music at the end of October.

2002-10-18

'Mamma Mia!' premieres on New York Broadway

'Mamma Mia!' made its premiere on New York Broadway on October 18, 2002. The musical became a huge success and a favorite among audiences.

2003-11

DVD release of Chess in Stockholm

In November 2003, the musical Chess in Stockholm concluded, but a DVD of the performance was released for fans to enjoy.

2005-10-22

Waterloo Chosen as Best Eurovision Song

On 22 October 2005, at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Eurovision Song Contest, ABBA's song 'Waterloo' was chosen as the best song in the competition's history.

2007-10

Mamma Mia! in Moscow

Mamma Mia! the musical comes to Moscow in October, expanding its international reach.

2008-06-30

Mamma Mia! The Movie premieres in London

The movie 'Mamma Mia!' has its premiere in London on June 30, garnering huge success.

2008-07-04

ABBA Reunion at Mamma Mia! Movie Premiere

After years of individual pursuits, ABBA members reunited at the Swedish premiere of the Mamma Mia! movie on 4 July 2008, reigniting public interest in the iconic group.

2008-08-03

Gold Returns to Number One in UK

Gold, an album by ABBA, returned to number one in the UK album charts for the fifth time on 3 August 2008. The album's popularity endured over the years.

2008-08-14

Mamma Mia! Soundtrack Tops US Billboard Charts

On 14 August 2008, the Mamma Mia! The Movie film soundtrack went to number one on the US Billboard charts, becoming ABBA's first US chart-topping album. This marked a significant achievement for the band.

2009-01-22

ABBA Receives Swedish Music Award

Fältskog and Lyngstad appeared together on stage to receive the Swedish music award 'Rockbjörnen' for 'lifetime achievement', expressing gratitude and thanking their fans.

2009-11-25

ABBA Voted by British Public

PRS for Music announced that the British public voted ABBA as the band they would most like to see re-form.

2010-01-26

Song Performance for Crown Princess Victoria's Wedding

Benny is asked to write a song for the wedding of Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden to Daniel Westling. The song 'Vilar glad. I din famn' with lyrics by Kristina Lugn is performed by Orsa Spelmän, the Swedish Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and two choirs in the church just after the wedding ceremony.

2010-01-27

ABBAWORLD Exhibition Debuts in London

ABBAWORLD, a touring exhibition featuring interactive and audiovisual activities, debuted at Earls Court Exhibition Centre in London with full support from the band members.

2010-03-15

ABBA Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

ABBA was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March 2010 by Bee Gees members Barry Gibb and Robin Gibb. The ceremony took place in New York City.

2010-09-23

ABBAWORLD Exhibition Opening in London

Frida and Björn attend the opening of the ABBAWORLD travelling exhibition in London on January 26.

2010-09-24

ABBA Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

ABBA are finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in a ceremony in New York. Frida and Benny thank the audience and the fans and Benny plays the piano.

2011-01-03

Fältskog Raises Possibility of ABBA Reunion

On 3 January 2011, Agnetha Fältskog, a reclusive ABBA member, hinted at the possibility of reuniting for a one-off engagement, sparking speculation among fans.

2011-05-17

Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! Added to Bandmaster Philippines

'Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!' was added as a non-premium song selection for the Bandmaster Philippines server.

2011-11-15

ABBA: You Can Dance Game Release

Ubisoft released a dancing game called ABBA: You Can Dance for the Wii.

2012-01

Re-release of ABBA's Final Album

Universal Music announced the re-release of ABBA's final album The Visitors, featuring a previously unheard track 'From a Twinkling Star to a Passing Angel'.

2012-02

Kristina från Duvemåla premieres in Helsinki

In February 2012, the Finnish production of Kristina från Duvemåla, prepared by Benny and Björn from ABBA, had its premiere in Helsinki.

2013-05-07

Opening date announced for ABBA The Museum

On May 7, 2013, the official opening date for ABBA The Museum in Stockholm was revealed.

2014-04

ABBA - The Choir performs with Benny at ABBA The Museum

In April 2014, ABBA - The Choir performs with Benny at ABBA The Museum.

2015

ABBA's 'Dancing Queen' inducted into Grammy Hall of Fame

In 2015, ABBA's iconic song 'Dancing Queen' was inducted into the Recording Academy's Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its lasting impact and musical excellence.

2016-01-20

Mamma Mia! The Party opens in Stockholm

On January 20, Mamma Mia! The Party, a live dinner show in a Greek taverna featuring ABBA hits, opens in Stockholm. All four ABBA members attend and briefly come on stage.

2016-06-05

ABBA members sing 'The Way Old Friends Do' on stage

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Benny and Björn meeting, all four ABBA members attend a party on June 5 and perform 'The Way Old Friends Do' on stage.

2016-06-06

ABBA Quartet Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The quartet appeared together at a private party in Stockholm to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Andersson and Ulvaeus's first meeting, with live performances.

2018-04-27

Announcement of Two New ABBA Songs

On April 27, 2018, two new ABBA songs, 'I Still Have Faith in You' and 'Don't Shut Me Down', were announced. These songs have already been recorded and the first one is planned to be performed by virtual, digital versions of the ABBA members.

2018-07-20

ABBA's Staying Power

ABBA's enduring popularity and influence in the music industry is explored.

2019-06-14

Reissue of ABBA's Voulez-Vous

ABBA's album Voulez-Vous was reissued in multiple formats to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

2019-09-19

Opening of Mamma Mia! The Party

Mamma Mia! The Party opened at London O2 on September 19, 2019, with the attendance of Björn and Benny from ABBA.

2019-12-06

Opening of ABBA The Super Troupers Exhibition

ABBA The Super Troupers Exhibition opened at London O2 on December 6, 2019.

2020-09-22

ABBA Members Reunion at Ealing Studios

On 22 September 2020, all four ABBA members reunited at Ealing Studios in London to continue working on the avatar project and filming for the tour.

2021-03-23

ABBA Wins Swedish Government's Music Export Prize

On March 23, 2021, it was announced that ABBA were the winners of the Swedish Government’s 2021 Music Export Prize.

2021-08-26

Launch of ABBA Voyage Website

On August 26, 2021, a new website titled ABBA Voyage was launched, inviting visitors to subscribe for updates. This marked the beginning of the promotional campaign for ABBA's upcoming projects.

2021-09-02

Announcement of ABBA Voyage Album and Concert Residency

On September 2, 2021, ABBA officially announced their first new album in 40 years, 'Voyage', along with a concert residency featuring digital avatars of the band members. This marked a significant return for the iconic group.

2021-11-05

Release of ABBA's new album 'Voyage'

ABBA released their first new album in 40 years titled 'Voyage' on 5 November 2021. The album received positive critical reviews and achieved strong sales in numerous countries.

2022-02-12

ABBA members attend Swedish Mamma Mia! premiere

All four ABBA members attended the Swedish premiere of Mamma Mia! at the Stockholm Cirkus on February 12.

2022-05-27

Start of ABBA Voyage Concert Residency

On May 27, 2022, ABBA's concert residency at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, featuring digital avatars of the band members, began. This marked a unique and innovative approach to live performances.

2023-04

Death of ABBA Guitarist Lasse Wellander

In April 2023, ABBA guitarist Lasse Wellander passed away at the age of 70. Wellander had been a significant part of the group's musical journey, contributing to many of their studio albums.

2024-02-29

Cyndi Lauper collaboration with ABBA Voyage

Cyndi Lauper has partnered with the firm behind ABBA Voyage for a new immersive performance project. This collaboration brings together two iconic music figures for an innovative musical experience.

2024-03-06

Brighton Abba exhibition

An exhibition in Brighton commemorates 50 years since ABBA's Eurovision win. This exhibition showcases the band's legacy and impact on music history.

2024-03-18

BBC Celebrates ABBA's 50th Anniversary of Eurovision Win

In April 2024, the BBC will commemorate 50 years since ABBA's victory in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974, highlighting the enduring legacy of the band.

2024-03-21

ABBA Members Appointed Royal Order of Vasa

On March 21, 2024, all four members of ABBA were honored with the Royal Order of Vasa by the King of Sweden. This prestigious recognition coincided with the 50th anniversary of ABBA's Eurovision win.

End of the Timeline
ABBA