Introduction
On May 31, 2024, all four members of ABBA — Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, and Agnetha Fältskog — were reunited at the Swedish Royal Castle to receive the Royal Order of Vasa, a prestigious honor awarded for exceptional contributions to Swedish and international music.
The award, being presented for the first time in nearly 50 years, was seen by the group as a deeply emotional and meaningful recognition, especially as it symbolized appreciation from the Swedish people. Benny described it as a gesture that felt rooted in national pride, while Björn reflected on how unimaginable such an honor would have seemed back in their early days — particularly when they won Eurovision in Brighton 50 years ago.
The ceremony was formal but relaxed, and the group expressed gratitude and amazement at the honor. Though they did not plan to celebrate together afterward, the mood was warm and reflective. Benny humorously noted that Queen Silvia might be “haunted” by Dancing Queen, suggesting the royal couple are longtime fans.
In a more reflective moment, Björn commented on how, in the 1970s, ABBA’s music had been dismissed by the progressive music scene as “plastic and commercial.” He noted, without bitterness, that time has passed — and this national recognition perhaps speaks to how ABBA’s legacy has endured and been reappraised.