ABBA Takes a Swipe at Power in “Man In The Middle”
On their self-titled 1975 album, ABBA ventures beyond their usual themes of love and heartbreak with “Man In The Middle.” This funky, Björn Ulvaeus-led track offers a scathing commentary on those who wield power unscrupulously.

The song paints a vivid picture of a wealthy and ruthless individual, indulging in extravagant luxuries while those around him struggle. Lyrics like “With the pretty blonde; he is fifty and the girl’s only seventeen” and “He just left his lunch with a belly full of lobster and caviar” establish a stark contrast between the protagonist’s opulent lifestyle and the lives of ordinary people.

ABBA doesn’t shy away from criticizing the man’s methods. The lyrics describe him as “a spider in a cobweb” and someone who “deals with the devil,” suggesting a manipulative and ruthless approach to acquiring wealth and power.

However, “Man In The Middle” doesn’t just condemn the powerful; it also highlights the emptiness of their existence. The song concludes with the line, “He can buy the most, nearly anything but he can’t buy an honest friend,” implying that despite his material possessions, the protagonist is ultimately isolated and alone.

Musically, “Man In The Middle” departs from ABBA’s signature pop sound. The prominent use of horns and a driving bassline creates a funky groove that complements the song’s underlying social commentary. This unique sound, coupled with the pointed lyrics, makes “Man In The Middle” a standout track in the ABBA catalog.

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