Overview
Agnetha Fältskog is a Swedish singer, songwriter, and pianist best known as a member of ABBA. Her career spans from early solo success in Sweden to international stardom, a notable solo career, and continued relevance through recent ABBA reunions and new solo releases.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
- Born 5 April 1950 in Jönköping, Sweden; developed an early interest in music.
- Wrote her first song at age six and began piano lessons and choir singing by age eight.
- Formed a local trio, the Cambers, before joining a dance band and leaving school at 15.
- Influenced by artists like Connie Francis, Marianne Faithfull, Aretha Franklin, and Lesley Gore.
Swedish Solo Career (1966–1971)
- Released debut single "Jag var så kär" in 1967, topping Swedish charts.
- Recorded successful singles and albums with Cupol Records.
- Brief attempt at a German career ended after artistic differences.
- Portrayed Mary Magdalene in the Swedish "Jesus Christ Superstar" in 1972.
ABBA Years and First Marriage (1971–1982)
- Formed ABBA with Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.
- Married Ulvaeus in 1971; had two children before divorcing in 1980.
- Sang lead on numerous ABBA hits and released a Swedish solo album in 1975.
- Worked on side projects, including composing for Melodifestivalen and recording with her daughter.
Post-ABBA and Solo Career (1982–1988)
- Achieved solo chart success across Europe with albums like "Wrap Your Arms Around Me" and "Eyes of a Woman."
- Released a children's album with her son and scored major Scandinavian hits.
- Collaborated with international artists and recorded in the US.
Hiatus and Personal Life (1988–2004)
- Withdrew from public life, focusing on personal interests and facing personal losses, including her parents' deaths.
- Experienced reclusive periods and had a highly publicized stalking incident.
- Published an autobiography and managed her catalog with new compilations.
Return to Music and Recent Activities (2004–present)
- Released "My Colouring Book" (2004), her first album in 16 years, with strong chart performance.
- Appeared at ABBA-related events and reunions, including "Mamma Mia!" premieres.
- Returned with the album "A" (2013), featuring new material and duets, followed by high chart positions.
- Participated in ABBA's new album "Voyage" (2021) and virtual concert residency.
- Released the album "A+" and the single "Where Do We Go From Here?" in 2023.
- Honored as Commander, First Class, of the Royal Order of Vasa in 2024.
Awards and Honors
- Won Eurovision Song Contest 1974 with ABBA.
- Numerous European chart-topping albums and singles as a solo and group artist.
- SKAP Kai Gullmar Memorial Award (2013); Swedish Royal Order of Vasa (2024).
Key Personal Details
- Two marriages: Björn Ulvaeus (1971–1980) and Tomas Sonnenfeld (1990–1993).
- Four grandchildren; currently resides in Ekerö, Stockholm County.
- Has openly discussed fear of flying and experiences with therapy.