Introduction
Released in 1979, “The King Has Lost His Crown” by ABBA isn’t your typical, lighthearted pop song the Swedish supergroup is known for. This track, found on their album Voulez-Vous, sheds a different light on ABBA, venturing into a more personal and metaphorical territory.
The song’s origins remain shrouded in some mystery. Unlike many of ABBA’s hits penned by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, the exact meaning behind the lyrics is debated. Some believe it reflects the changing dynamics within the band itself. ABBA was at the height of their fame, but cracks were beginning to show, with rumors of marital troubles within the songwriting duo.
“The King Has Lost His Crown” could be interpreted as a metaphor for a power struggle, a king (perhaps a romantic partner or a symbol of their past success) losing their dominance. The lyrics hint at a power shift, with lines like “they say she’s pushing you around” and “how does it feel, I guess it hurts your pride.”
This introspective quality is a departure from ABBA’s usual themes of love and happiness. Musically, the song retains the group’s signature pop sensibilities, but with a darker and more melancholic edge. The instrumentation is layered, featuring prominent synthesizers alongside the catchy pop melodies.
While the true meaning behind the song remains open to interpretation, “The King Has Lost His Crown” stands as a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known side of ABBA. It’s a song that showcases their musical evolution and willingness to explore more complex themes, making it a unique gem in their vast discography.