Fifty years after ABBA’s historic win at the Eurovision Song Contest, this documentary, airing on Channel 5 on Saturday 13 April, takes a look into the story behind the band’s road to victory. From initial setbacks to their ultimate triumph, viewers will be taken on a journey that shaped ABBA’s legacy.
In 1973, a year before their Eurovision win, ABBA faced disappointment as their entry “Ring Ring” fell flat, finishing third in the judges’ vote. The group’s future seemed uncertain, but they were determined to persevere. This programme explores how ABBA regrouped and strategised for their comeback, ultimately achieving success with “Waterloo”.
The episode delves into the lead-up to the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, hosted in Brighton, UK. ABBA’s unique style, with their shiny orange and blue costumes and towering silver platform boots, made an impact on the audience and judges. The group’s conductor, Sven-Olof Walldoff, dressed as Napoleon, added to the theatrics of their performance.
Despite receiving “nul points” from five countries, ABBA defied the odds and clinched the victory with their catchy track “Waterloo”. The song’s success not only launched ABBA’s international career but also became a defining moment in pop music history.
The documentary includes insights from musicians who played with the band, as well as the designer responsible for their iconic glam rock costumes. Through these contributions, viewers will gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of ABBA’s journey to winning over Europe.
As ABBA celebrates this milestone anniversary, the episode also reflects on the band’s enduring impact on music and popular culture, including their influence on subsequent Eurovision contestants and the lasting appeal of their songs.
How ABBA Won Eurovision airs on Channel 5 at 9:00 PM on Saturday, 13 April 2024.
