Introduction
“Voulez-Vous” (French for “Do you want?”) isn’t just a song by ABBA, it’s the title of their sixth studio album, released in 1979. The album marked a turning point for the Swedish supergroup, ushering in a disco era for their sound.
While ABBA was already known for catchy pop melodies and infectious hooks, “Voulez-Vous” showcased a newfound interest in the energy and experimentation of disco. This shift was influenced by the global disco phenomenon of the late 70s and a desire to broaden their musical horizons.
The title track, “Voulez-Vous,” became the album’s lead single and perfectly captured this disco spirit. With its pulsing synths, four-on-the-floor beat, and playful lyrics about finding love on the dance floor, it became an instant hit. The song was co-written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, ABBA’s songwriting duo, and cemented their reputation for crafting irresistible pop anthems.
The entire “Voulez-Vous” album became another commercial success for ABBA, topping charts worldwide. It included other disco-tinged tracks like “Dancing Queen” (already released a year prior but included on the album) and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight),” further solidifying their place in the disco scene.
However, “Voulez-Vous” wasn’t a complete departure from their previous sound. The album also balanced the disco influence with their signature pop sensibilities, evident in tracks like “I Have a Dream” and “Chiquitita.” This versatility is what made “Voulez-Vous” such a successful and enduring album.
So, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to be transported to a world of shimmering lights and infectious grooves. “Voulez-Vous” is an invitation to revel in the disco spirit with one of pop music’s most iconic bands.