Introduction
ABBA’s “Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough):” A Song About the Trials of Love
ABBA’s “Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” isn’t your typical pop love song. Released in 1973 as part of their debut album “Ring Ring,” it takes a more realistic approach.
Though a surprising omission from their home country Sweden, the single found success elsewhere in Scandinavia. The song is a country-rock number, a departure from the group’s signature sound that would emerge later.
The title itself hints at the song’s theme: love’s complexities. Despite the playful contradiction, it doesn’t delve into double entendres. Instead, the lyrics paint a familiar picture – a squabble between lovers.
There’s frustration, blame, and that underlying truth: strong relationships require work. ABBA, even in their early days, weren’t afraid to explore love’s various facets, not just the sunshine and rainbows.
This lesser-known track offers a glimpse into the band’s versatility before they dominated the charts with catchy pop anthems. It’s a song for those who recognize that love, while beautiful, isn’t always easy. It can be “hard enough,” but the effort might just be worth it.
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