Introduction
Unveiling “Al Andar”: ABBA’s Spanish Rendition of “Move On”
While “Al Andar” might hold a place on your ABBA playlist, it’s not actually a song they originally wrote and sang in Swedish. It’s the Spanish version of their beloved track “Move On,” a song that carries a message of resilience and moving forward.
“Move On” was composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the musical masterminds behind ABBA. Released in 1977, it found a home on the album “The Album.” The original English lyrics speak of navigating uncertainty and finding solace in the simple act of moving on.
“Al Andar” arrived much later, in 1982, as part of a promotional effort for the compilation album “Por Siempre” (“Forever” in English) released specifically for the Latin American market. This compilation featured Spanish versions of some of ABBA’s greatest hits, with “Al Andar” being the Spanish rendition of “Move On.” The translators, Mary and Buddy McCluskey, took some liberties with the lyrics, even though the core message of perseverance remained.
While “Al Andar” may not be as widely known as the original English version, it stands as a testament to ABBA’s global reach and their ability to connect with audiences through the power of music, regardless of language. It’s a chance to experience a familiar ABBA melody with a fresh lyrical twist, offering a message of hope and perseverance with a Latin flair.