Introduction
“When All Is Said And Done,” released in 1981, arrived on ABBA’s introspective album, “The Visitors.” This melancholic ballad marked a shift from their usual upbeat style, reflecting the personal turmoil within the band.
Björn Ulvaeus, one of ABBA’s songwriters, was going through a divorce with bandmate Agnetha Fältskog. The emotional weight of their separation permeated the album’s themes, and “When All Is Said And Done” became a poignant expression of looking back on a love lost.
Frida Lyngstad, another vocalist, later admitted the song captured her own sadness. While not explicitly a break-up anthem, the lyrics resonate with the complexities of a relationship ending.
Despite its somber mood, “When All Is Said And Done” wasn’t entirely overlooked. Although other countries released “One of Us” as the lead single, ABBA’s American label chose this song. It achieved modest success in the US, hinting at the song’s universal appeal in acknowledging the bittersweet nature of relationships.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its chart performance. “When All Is Said And Done” stands as a testament to ABBA’s ability to craft music that transcends pop frivolity. It’s a song that lingers long after the last note fades, prompting reflection on the enduring impact of love and loss.