Introduction
“Hey, Hey Helen,” a track nestled on ABBA’s self-titled 1975 album, might not be one of their mega-hits, but it holds a special place in their history. Released as the B-side to “Mamma Mia” in Australia and “Fernando” in the UK, the song delves into a poignant theme often unexpected from ABBA’s sunny pop repertoire: the realities of divorce and single motherhood.
Composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the songwriting duo behind ABBA’s greatest triumphs, “Hey, Hey Helen” tackles the emotional rollercoaster of a woman named Helen who takes the difficult step of leaving a relationship. The lyrics offer a glimpse into her newfound freedom, yet grapple with the accompanying pain of seeing her children unhappy and questioning the choices she’s made.
The song’s release in 1975 coincided with a rising divorce rate in many parts of the world. While pop music often shied away from such complex themes, ABBA, with their signature blend of catchy melodies and introspective lyrics, dared to explore the emotional turmoil of a situation many women faced.
Though not a chart-topper, “Hey, Hey Helen” sparked discussions about feminism and the changing social landscape. Some interpretations suggest the song leans towards a more traditional view of family, questioning the cost of Helen’s independence. Others see it as a celebration of her strength and courage in taking control of her life.
Whether viewed through a traditional or feminist lens, “Hey, Hey Helen” remains a powerful and relatable song. It showcases a different side of ABBA, one that grapples with mature themes while retaining their signature pop sensibility. So, the next time you revisit ABBA’s extensive discography, take a moment to listen to “Hey, Hey Helen” – a song that offers a glimpse beyond the glitz and glamour, straight into the emotional complexities of life.