The Power of Agnetha’s Voice
The award specifically honors the chilling, exposed vocal performance delivered by Agnetha Fältskog. “The Winner Takes It All,” written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, is widely regarded as one of the most heartbreaking songs in pop history, written shortly after the composers’ own marriage dissolved.
The vocal track is a masterclass in conveying raw pain and dignified sadness. Agnetha’s ability to deliver the song’s searing lyrics with such vulnerability—her voice wavering perfectly between control and total breakdown—is what solidified the track’s status as an enduring classic, and ultimately, a Grammy winner decades later.
An Emotional Acceptance
While ABBA rarely make public appearances, the acceptance speech, delivered remotely by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, was filled with emotion.
“We are truly honored and slightly astonished,” said Ulvaeus, “that a song written during such a sad time for us still resonates so powerfully today. This award belongs entirely to the two wonderful voices—Agnetha and Anni-Frid—who gave this song its soul.”
Andersson added, “We always knew that the emotion in this track was real. Thank you to the Academy for recognizing that some songs, and some performances, never lose their truth.”
The win is a beautiful affirmation of the enduring artistry of ABBA, confirming that their music is not merely nostalgic, but remains some of the most emotionally resonant and technically perfect vocal work in the history of pop music.