Introduction
“I Let the Music Speak” isn’t your typical ABBA pop anthem. Released in 1981, nestled on the B-side of their introspective album “The Visitors,” it marked a turning point for the Swedish supergroup.
While ABBA was renowned for infectious dance hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Waterloo,” “The Visitors” explored darker themes of relationships, loss, and the Cold War. “I Let the Music Speak” reflects this shift. As the fifth-longest ABBA song, it unfolds with a melancholic beauty, a far cry from their usual three-minute pop masterpieces.
Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the songwriting duo behind ABBA’s success, hinted that “I Let the Music Speak” was an experiment in storytelling. They viewed it as a bridge between their pop sensibilities and their future foray into musicals like “Chess.” The song’s theatrical quality is evident in its structure, with its layered vocals and a building instrumental section that feels more like a journey than a pop hook.
Despite not being a single, “I Let the Music Speak” holds a special place among ABBA fans. It’s a testament to the band’s musical evolution, showcasing their ability to weave deeper emotions into their signature sound. So, put on your headphones, and let “I Let the Music Speak” wash over you. It’s a song that speaks volumes, even without words.