7 ABBA songs that will instantly transport you back to the glitter and glamour of the ‘70s

Few bands encapsulate the disco era quite like ABBA. The Swedish superstars, donned in glittering attire, priceless harmonies, and captivating tunes, were not just creating rhythms — they captured the soul of an entire decade.

From their bass-thumping hits to tender ballads, ABBA's melodious works are a sonic time machine that takes you back to the days of bell-bottoms, feathered hair, and the vibrant energy of youth.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a recent convert thanks to their bangers’ resurgence on TikTok, these 7 ABBA tracks promise a dose of ‘70s nostalgia, charm, and sparkle.

7 ABBA songs to take you back to the glitz and glam of the ‘70s:

“Dancing Queen” (1976)

Let’s begin with the anthem of disco royalty. In addition to being ABBA’s biggest worldwide hit, “Dancing Queen” is also the quintessential ‘70s song. The soaring piano intro, euphoric chorus, and shimmering harmonies make you feel like you're seventeen again, even if you weren’t born yet in the Polyester Decade.

“Chiquitita” (1979)

Tender, comforting, and full of optimism, “Chiquitita” is a soft and fuzzy embrace wrapped in a lullaby. The song is notable for its warmth-filled verses and glistening piano intro that gradually establishes an uplifting anthem of emotional resilience. It’s a sonic equivalent of a friend telling you that everything is going to be okay, a kind of catharsis that only ABBA can deliver.

“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” (1979)

Synthy, moody, and slightly sultry, “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" is a late 1970s nightclub in song form. This ABBA track's dark disco edge set it apart and made it a timeless classic for pop fans of all generations. It's the perfect blend of glistening longing and loneliness.

“Fernando” (1976)

The Swedish icons slow things down with this wistful ballad brimming with nostalgia and bittersweet longing. With its Latin-inspired riffs and storytelling verses, “Fernando” evokes a sense of dreamy escape. It’s the kind of melody that takes you to a sunlit field somewhere far away, with a heart full of memories.

“Take a Chance on Me” (1977)

Playful, flirty, and reminiscent of a weekend roller disco, this song embodies the romantic optimism of the era. With its staccato “take-a-chance” backing vocals and sincere verses, it’s the perfect go-to tune when you’re feeling hopeless about love or need a pick-me-up to take a leap of faith.

“Mamma Mia” (1975)

"Mamma Mia" was already a drama-laced earworm before it became a Broadway and Hollywood smash. Irresistibly catchy, melodramatic, and hard to ignore, it's a timeless favorite of generations for its theatrical flair, clunky piano, and a chorus that begs to be screamed.

“The Winner Takes It All” (1980)

Not everything that sparkled in the late ‘70s was golden, and the band wasn't scared to reveal the flaws beneath the era’s glitz and glam.

“The Winner Takes It All” is a slow, emotional juggernaut, unlike their more upbeat anthems. It’s a heartbreak-induced ballad that captures the gut-wrenching aftermath of lost love. With Agnetha’s haunting vocals as she sings into the mic with “I was in your arms, thinking I belonged there,” the track will throw you right into the eye of the storm.