Introduction
A Nostalgic Christmas with ABBA’s “Little Things”
Believe it or not, ABBA’s “Little Things” holds a unique place in their history. Released in December 2021, it marked not only their first Christmas song but also their first single in nearly four decades. The song arrived as part of their ninth and final studio album, “Voyage,” a reunion project that sent shockwaves through the music world.
“Little Things” wasn’t entirely new, however. The melody drew inspiration from “Godnattvisa” (“Lullaby”), an instrumental piece by Benny Andersson from his 2007 solo project. Bjorn Ulvaeus then crafted lyrics that captured the simple joys of Christmas morning and the warmth of spending time with loved ones.
The song itself is a delightful blend of classic ABBA and festive cheer. A touch of the melody from “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” adds a touch of whimsy, while the vocals of Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad retain their signature charm. The outro features the Children’s Choir of the Stockholm International School, adding a layer of innocence and wonder that perfectly complements the song’s theme.
More than just a Christmas song, “Little Things” also carried a message of social awareness. ABBA partnered with UNICEF, donating proceeds from the single to their Global Child Protection Fund. This philanthropic element added another layer of meaning to the song, reminding listeners of the importance of helping those less fortunate during the holiday season.
Though not released during their initial run as a band, “Little Things” became a heartwarming addition to the ABBA legacy. It served as a beautiful Christmas gift to their devoted fans, a nostalgic reminder of their musical brilliance, and a testament to their enduring commitment to giving back.