Introduction
“Midnight Special” is a track by ABBA, released as a part of their 1980 compilation album *”ABBA Gold: Greatest Hits.”* The song, however, was not originally a single and was largely unknown outside of the compilation album. This track offers a glimpse into ABBA’s expansive musical style, combining their signature pop sound with elements of jazz and blues.
The origins of “Midnight Special” are connected to the band’s experimentation with different musical genres during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Although the song was recorded during the sessions for their *”Super Trouper”* album, it did not make it onto the final tracklist. It was only later included in *”ABBA Gold”* as a bonus track, which highlights its unique place in the band’s discography.
The song is notable for its distinctive style, blending ABBA’s pop sensibilities with a touch of the traditional folk song “Midnight Special,” which dates back to the early 20th century and has been covered by various artists over the years. ABBA’s version reinterprets this classic with their signature harmonies and production techniques, giving it a modern twist while paying homage to its roots.
Musically, “Midnight Special” features the rich, multi-layered arrangements that are characteristic of ABBA’s work. The track’s inclusion in *”ABBA Gold”* underscores the band’s ability to innovate within their genre while exploring different musical influences.
Overall, “Midnight Special” serves as an intriguing addition to ABBA’s catalog, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles while maintaining their distinctive pop sound.