Introduction
ABBA, synonymous with infectious pop anthems like Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia, might surprise you with “Hey, Hey Helen.” Released in 1975 as the B-side to either “Mamma Mia” or “Fernando” depending on the region, this track takes a sharp turn into glam and hard rock territory.
Composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the songwriting duo behind ABBA’s greatest hits, “Hey, Hey Helen” hints at a different side of the band’s musicality. While maintaining their signature pop sensibility in the melody, the song explodes with driving guitars and a powerful vocal delivery, particularly from Frida Lyngstad.
The song’s origins remain a little obscure. Some speculate it might have been intended for the band’s self-titled debut album but wasn’t included due to not quite fitting the overall sound. There’s also a theory that “Hey, Hey Helen” was a one-off experiment for ABBA to explore a heavier sound.
Despite its B-side status, “Hey, Hey Helen” gained a cult following among fans who appreciated ABBA’s versatility. Live performances show the band embracing the song’s energy, with Agnetha Fältskog and Frida Lyngstad donning colorful capes and delivering the song with gusto.
So, if you’re an ABBA fan looking to delve beyond their signature sound, “Hey, Hey Helen” is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Prepare for a burst of rock n’ roll energy with a dash of ABBA’s pop magic.