Introduction
Title: Revisiting ABBA’s Wild Side: The Untamed Energy of ABBA – “King Kong Song”
While ABBA is best known for their polished pop brilliance and emotionally resonant ballads, there exists another, more exuberant facet of their musical identity that is sometimes overlooked. Enter ABBA – “King Kong Song”, a track that trades elegance for unrestrained fun, channeling the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll through the unmistakable lens of ABBA’s Swedish pop sensibilities.
Originally released in 1974 on their second album, Waterloo, “King Kong Song” is one of ABBA’s most rambunctious and unconventional offerings. From its opening guitar riff to its rollicking chorus, the song is a raucous celebration of a genre and era that heavily influenced the band in their early years. It’s a tribute to the rock acts of the late ’60s and early ’70s—complete with driving percussion, layered harmonies, and a tongue-in-cheek sense of theatricality.
What makes “King Kong Song” so fascinating isn’t just its musical departure from the group’s later, more refined works—it’s the boldness with which it embraces the chaotic. The lyrics are playful, even humorous, telling the story of a “King Kong” who’s more of a misunderstood figure than a menace. It’s a song that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and in doing so, provides a burst of joy and nostalgia.
Critics at the time may have viewed it as a novelty, but in hindsight, the track reveals ABBA’s willingness to experiment and have fun before they found their definitive sound. There’s an infectious enthusiasm in the way the band performs it; Agnetha and Anni-Frid’s vocals soar with gusto, while Benny and Björn’s instrumentation adds both weight and whimsy.
Listening to ABBA – “King Kong Song” today feels like unearthing a hidden gem—a reminder that even pop perfectionists like ABBA had their moments of rock-infused rebellion. For those who appreciate the broader scope of a band’s evolution, this track offers a valuable glimpse into ABBA’s creative journey. It may not be their most famous hit, but it’s certainly one of their most spirited.