Abba were ‘hurt’ by how Sweden treated them after their Eurovision win

Abba faced significant backlash in Sweden following their Eurovision win in 1974, primarily from the left-wing media and public who viewed them as a commercial band. Biographer Jan Gradvall notes that the group was often criticized for not aligning with the progressive music ideals of the time, which emphasized political themes and social improvement. This disconnect led to a perception of Abba as apolitical, which frustrated some of their contemporaries who were engaged in social issues. The situation escalated in 1975 when Sweden hosted Eurovision, prompting protests against the commercialization of music, further deepening the distrust between the band and the media. Despite the criticism, Abba continued to focus on their music, with their manager actively defending them in public debates. The band members, particularly Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, contributed significantly to their unique sound, yet their roles were often overshadowed by the group's commercial image. Over time, perceptions of Abba have shifted, with a growing recognition of their musical contributions and artistry, although the initial hurt from their treatment in Sweden lingered. Their story reflects broader themes of artistic integrity versus commercial success, and the complexities of public perception in the music industry.