About the Song
ABBA’s 1981 song “Head Over Heels” wasn’t just another poppy tune topping the charts. Released as part of their introspective album, “The Visitors,” it marked a shift in the band’s sound and lyrical themes.
Composed by songwriting duo Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, “Head Over Heels” moved away from the pure pop of their earlier hits. Synth-heavy and layered with atmospheric sounds, the music reflected the growing personal turmoil within the band at the time. The lyrics, however, remained captivating. They told a story of intense infatuation, a head-over-heels kind of love that borders on obsession. Lines like “My common sense / Has gone out the door” captured the all-consuming nature of new love, a theme that resonated with audiences.
The quirky music video, filmed in Stockholm by director Lasse Hallström, added another layer to the song’s legacy. It features Frida Lyngstad, one of ABBA’s vocalists, racing through the snowy streets in high heels, determined to meet her love interest. The playful chase and humorous scenes contrasted with the song’s more serious undertones, creating a unique visual experience. Interestingly, this is the only ABBA music video where the director himself makes an appearance, a fun fact for fans.
“Head Over Heels” wasn’t ABBA’s biggest commercial success, but it holds a special place in their discography. It marked a turning point, showcasing their ability to evolve musically while retaining their signature catchy melodies. The song remains a fan favorite, a reminder of ABBA’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with introspective themes, all set against the backdrop of a snowy Stockholm chase.
Video
https://youtu.be/pL2_PZwKDPg?si=URDAaoyOfBYqnn6K
Lyric
I have a very good friendThe kind of girl who likes to follow a trendShe has a personal styleSome people like it, others tend to go wildYou hear her voice everywhereTaking the chairShe’s a leading ladyAnd with no trace of hesitation she keeps goingHead over heelsBreaking her wayPushing through unknown jungles every dayShe’s a girl with a taste for the world(The world is like a playing ground where she goes rushing)Head over heelsSetting the paceRunning the gauntlet in a whirl of laceShe’s extreme if you know what I meanHer man is one I admireHe’s so couragous but he’s constantly tiredEach time when he speaks his mindShe pats his head and says, “That’s all very fine”Exert that will of your ownWhen you’re aloneNow we better hurryAnd with no trace of hesitation she keeps goingHead over heelsBreaking her wayPushing through unknown jungles every dayShe’s a girl with a taste for the world(The world is like a playing ground where she goes rushing)Head over heelsSetting the paceRunning the gauntlet in a whirl of laceShe’s extreme if you know what I meanYou hear her voice everywhereTaking the chairShe’s a leading ladyAnd with no trace of hesitation she keeps goingHead over heelsBreaking her wayPushing through unknown jungles every dayShe’s a girl with a taste for the world(The world is like a playing ground where she goes rushing)Head over heelsSetting the paceRunning the gauntlet in a whirl of laceShe’s extreme if you know what I mean(She’s just one of those who always likes to do whatever she please)And she goesHead over heels