ABBA – Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough): A Candid Look at Love’s Realities
In the landscape of popular music, ABBA stands as a towering force. The Swedish quartet, with their infectious melodies and undeniably catchy hooks, dominated the airwaves in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Yet, beneath the shimmering veneer of their pop anthems often lay a surprising depth, a willingness to explore themes beyond carefree abandon. Enter Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough), a song that takes a refreshingly honest look at the complexities of love.
Background
Released in 1973, “Love Isn’t Easy” predates ABBA’s international superstardom. It served as a single in some Scandinavian countries but was not included on their debut album in their native Sweden. Despite its limited release, the song offers a glimpse into the songwriting partnership of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, a partnership that would become synonymous with ABBA’s success.
The song’s narrative unfolds as a conversation, a man attempting to persuade a woman into a relationship. The lyrics, delivered in a call-and-response style by all four members of ABBA, showcase a playful back-and-forth, a touch of humor sprinkled amidst the underlying truths about love. Unlike the idealized portrayals often found in pop music, “Love Isn’t Easy” acknowledges the challenges and compromises inherent in any romantic relationship.
Musically, the song leans towards a country-rock sound, a departure from the disco-influenced pop that would define ABBA’s later hits. The melody is upbeat and charming, featuring prominent acoustic guitars and a driving rhythm section. However, the lyrics belie the cheerful melody, offering a more nuanced perspective on love.
Love Isn’t Easy” stands as a unique entry in ABBA’s vast catalog. It showcases their ability to craft catchy melodies while simultaneously tackling themes beyond the realm of pure pop frivolity. The song remains a favorite among dedicated ABBA fans, a testament to its honesty and timeless message.
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Here are some additional details about the song:
- “Love Isn’t Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)” was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus.
- It was released as a single in 1973 in some Scandinavian countries.
- The song features a country-rock sound, distinct from ABBA’s later disco-influenced hits.