ABBA – Fernando (Official Music Video)

ABBA – Fernando (Official Music Video)

About the Song

ABBA’s “Fernando,” released in 1976, isn’t just a catchy pop tune; it’s a poignant ballad woven with loss, longing, and hope. Let’s delve into the song’s rich history and understand the emotions it evokes.Inspiration from Mexico: The song’s melody was inspired by Frida Lyngstad’s (one of ABBA’s vocalists) trip to Mexico, where she fell in love with mariachi music. Benny Andersson, the band’s songwriter, crafted the melody, initially titled “Finn Fernande.” Björn Ulvaeus, the lyricist, then weaved a story around it.

A Story of Farewell: The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman named Sofía saying goodbye to her lover, Fernando, who is leaving for Mexico. The song captures the pain of separation, the uncertainty of their future, and the lingering hope for a reunion. The iconic line, “I remember long ago, the sun that shone on Mexico,” encapsulates the bittersweet mix of memories and longing.

International Success: “Fernando” became an instant hit, topping charts in Sweden, Norway, Germany, and Austria. It even crossed language barriers, achieving success in Spanish-speaking countries with a translated version titled “Adios, Fernando.” The song’s emotional resonance and catchy melody resonated with audiences worldwide.

Enduring Legacy: “Fernando” remains a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in movies like “Mamma Mia!” The song’s themes of love, loss, and hope continue to touch hearts, making it a beloved anthem for anyone who has ever experienced a bittersweet goodbye.

So, the next time you hear “Fernando,” remember the story behind the music. It’s more than just a catchy tune; it’s a heartfelt farewell, a testament to the enduring power of love, and a reminder that even in goodbyes, hope can linger.

Video

https://youtu.be/dQsjAbZDx-4?si=uKrF4cLDXyh_TMAk

Lyric

[Verse 1: Frida]
Can you hear the drums, Fernando?
I remember, long ago, another starry night like this
In the firelight, Fernando

You were humming to yourself and softly strumming your guitar
I could hear the distant drums and sounds of bugle calls were coming from afar

[Verse 2: Frida & Agnetha]
They were closer now, Fernando
Every hour, every minute seemed to last eternally
I was so afraid, Fernando
We were young and full of life and none of us prepared to die
And I’m not ashamed to say the roar of guns and cannons almost made me cry

[Chorus: Frida & Agnetha]
There was something in the air that night
The stars were bright, Fernando
They were shining there for you and me
For liberty, Fernando
Though we never thought that we could lose
There’s no regret
If I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando
If I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando

[Verse 3: Frida & Agnetha]
Now we’re old and grey, Fernando
Since many years I haven’t seen a rifle in your hand
Can you hear the drums, Fernando?
Do you still recall the fateful night we crossed the Rio Grande?
I can see it in your eyes, how proud you were to fight for freedom in this land

[Chorus: Frida & Agnetha]
There was something in the air that night
The stars were bright, Fernando

They were shining there for you and me
For liberty, Fernando
Though I never thought that we could lose
There’s no regret
If I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando
There was something in the air that night
The stars were bright, Fernando

They were shining there for you and me
For liberty, Fernando
Though I never thought that we could lose
There’s no regret
If I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando
Yes, if I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando

[Outro: Frida & Agnetha]
If I had to do the same again
I would, my friend, Fernando