About the song
“SOS” is a song by the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA, released in June 1975. It was composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with the lyrics co-written by Stig Anderson. This song marked a significant point in ABBA’s career, showcasing their unique ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics. “SOS” is featured on their self-titled album *ABBA*, which came out in 1975, and it is one of the tracks that helped to solidify their place in the international music scene.
With lead vocals by Agnetha Fältskog, “SOS” stands out not only for its distinctive musical arrangement but also for its emotional depth. The song starts with a melancholy piano riff that leads into a powerful, emotive chorus, where Agnetha’s voice captures the anguish and despair of a love that has gone awry. The lyrics depict a plea for help in the midst of romantic turmoil, resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of a faltering relationship.
Upon its release, “SOS” achieved considerable chart success. It reached number 6 in the United Kingdom, number 15 in the United States, and topped the charts in several other countries, including Belgium and South Africa. This was one of the early signs of ABBA’s growing popularity outside their native Sweden, and it helped pave the way for their subsequent hits.
Critically, “SOS” was well-received, with many praising its sophisticated structure and the emotional delivery of its lyrics. The song’s success was a crucial step in ABBA’s evolution, as it demonstrated their capability to produce hits that were both commercially successful and artistically respected. It also showcased the band’s talent for creating music that could appeal to a wide audience while maintaining a distinct and memorable sound.
In retrospect, “SOS” is often seen as one of ABBA’s finest works. It remains a staple in their discography and is frequently included in compilations of their greatest hits. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its blend of poignant lyrics, catchy melody, and powerful vocal performance, making it a classic that continues to be appreciated by audiences of all ages.
For an older and educated audience, “SOS” is not just a pop song but a piece of musical craftsmanship that highlights ABBA’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music. The song’s legacy is a testament to ABBA’s enduring influence on the pop music landscape, and it remains a cherished favorite for its emotional honesty and melodic brilliance.
Video
Lyrics
Where are those happy days, they seem so hard to find
I tried to reach for you, but you have closed your mind
Whatever happened to our love?
I wish I understood
It used to be so nice, it used to be so goodSo when you’re near me, darling can’t you hear me
S. O. S.
The love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you’re gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you’re gone
Though I try how can I carry on?You seem so far away though you are standing near
You made me feel alive, but something died I fear
I really tried to make it out
I wish I understood
What happened to our love, it used to be so goodSo when you’re near me, darling can’t you hear me
S. O. S.
The love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you’re gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you’re gone
Though I try how can I carry on?So when you’re near me, darling can’t you hear me
S. O. S.
And the love you gave me, nothing else can save me
S. O. S.
When you’re gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you’re gone
Though I try how can I carry on?
When you’re gone
How can I even try to go on?
When you’re gone
Though I try how can I carry on?