Introduction
ABBA’s “Dream World” might not be a song you’re familiar with, but it holds a unique place in their history. Composed by the songwriting duo Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus in 1978, “Dream World” was originally intended for inclusion on their iconic album, Voulez-Vous.
However, the song never quite fit the final cut. While details are sparse, it seems the band felt “Dream World” didn’t quite gel with the overall vibe of the album. This wasn’t uncommon for ABBA – they were meticulous crafters, and many strong songs ended up on the cutting room floor.
Here’s where “Dream World” gets interesting. Though shelved, the song wasn’t completely forgotten. The melody and chord sequence for the middle-eight section were repurposed for another Voulez-Vous track, the hit “Does Your Mother Know.” This musical easter egg for dedicated fans hints at the potential “Dream World” held.
For years, “Dream World” remained unreleased, only heard by a select few. Then, in the 1980s, a snippet surfaced on a Swedish radio program, piquing the curiosity of ABBA’s devoted following. The song finally gained a wider release in 1994 as part of a promotional campaign for the “Thank You for the Music” box set.
Despite its belated release, “Dream World” offers a fascinating glimpse into ABBA’s creative process. Though not officially a single, the song allows us to hear the band experimenting with sounds and themes during their peak pop years. So, put on your headphones and prepare to delve into a world of catchy melodies and introspective lyrics, a world that for a time, remained just a dream.