About The Song
The opening track of side two on The Visitors is a song that perfectly encapsulates this shift. Titled “I Let the Music Speak”, it’s a poignant farewell, not just from the band to their audience, but a recognition of the power of music itself to transcend the limitations of words.
Unlike the infectious pop anthems ABBA was known for, “I Let the Music Speak” is a slower, more contemplative ballad. Frida Lyngstad’s vocals, usually bright and energetic, take on a deeper, more soulful quality here. The piano melody is melancholic yet hopeful, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonates with those who have experienced the joys and heartbreaks of life.
The lyrics themselves are beautifully understated. There’s no grand declaration or tearful goodbye. Instead, the song speaks of the universal language of music, its ability to connect us on a deeper level, to express the emotions that words often fail to capture. Lines like “There are moments when words are in vain / Let the music speak what we cannot explain” resonate deeply, particularly for those of us who’ve found solace and understanding in the melodies that have soundtracked our lives.
“I Let the Music Speak” isn’t just a song on an album; it’s a testament to the enduring power of music. It’s a reminder that even as bands break up and times change, the melodies they create have the ability to stay with us, evoking memories and emotions that transcend the years. So, put on your favorite headphones, close your eyes, and let ABBA take you back to a simpler time, a time when music truly spoke for itself.