Introduction
“The Winner Takes It All” by ABBA is a poignant and emotionally charged ballad that showcases the group’s songwriting and vocal prowess. Released in 1980 as part of their “Super Trouper” album, this song has become an enduring classic, known for its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody.
Did You Know?
“The Winner Takes It All” is often regarded as one of ABBA’s most emotionally charged songs. It’s believed to reflect the real-life struggles of the group members during a period of personal turmoil, including the separation of the songwriting duo Björn Ulvaeus and Agnetha Fältskog, who were married at the time. The song’s deep and introspective lyrics have resonated with audiences around the world.
Video
Lyrics
I don’t wanna talkAbout things we’ve gone throughThough it’s hurting meNow it’s history
I’ve played all my cardsAnd that’s what you’ve done tooNothing more to sayNo more ace to play
The winner takes it allThe loser’s standing smallBeside the victoryThat’s her destiny
I was in your armsThinking I belonged thereI figured it made senseBuilding me a fence
Building me a homeThinking I’d be strong thereBut I was a foolPlaying by the rules
The gods may throw a diceTheir minds as cold as iceAnd someone way down hereLoses someone dear
The winner takes it all (takes it all)The loser has to fall (has to fall)It’s simple and it’s plain (it’s so plain)Why should I complain? (Why complain?)
But tell me, does she kissLike I used to kiss you?Does it feel the sameWhen she calls your name?
Somewhere deep insideYou must know I miss youBut what can I say?Rules must be obeyed
The judges will decide (will decide)The likes of me abide (me abide)Spectators of the show (of the show)Always staying low (staying low)
The game is on again (on again)A lover or a friend (or a friend)A big thing or a small (big or small)The winner takes it all (takes it all)
I don’t wanna talkIf it makes you feel sadAnd I understandYou’ve come to shake my hand
I apologizeIf it makes you feel badSeeing me so tenseNo self-confidenceBut you see
The winner takes it allThe winner takes it all
So the winner takes it allAnd the loser has to fallThrow the dice, cold as iceWay down here, someone dearTakes it all, has to fallAnd it’s plain, why complain?