ABBA’s “Why Did It Have To Be Me” isn’t your typical Eurovision-inspired pop song. Released in 1976 on their Arrival album, the track took a surprising turn with its bluesy influences and a rare lead vocal by Björn Ulvaeus, one half of ABBA’s songwriting duo.

The song’s sound is a unique blend of genres. Described as having a “Fats Domino flavour,” “Why Did It Have To Be Me” incorporates elements of blues, jazz, pop, and even rock. This departure from their usual sound caught the attention of critics, with Pitchfork calling it “Björn’s barroom boogie about a sap who loses his heart.”

Ulvaeus’ lead vocals further differentiate the song from the usual ABBA sound dominated by Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. This melancholic ballad tells the story of a heartbroken man lamenting a lost love. The lyrics paint a picture of someone completely down on their luck, questioning why they had to be the one to experience such pain.

Despite its unconventional style for ABBA, “Why Did It Have To Be Me” found its place on their Arrival album, a record known for its experimentation and diverse sounds. The song remains a fan favorite for its unique blend of genres and its portrayal of heartbreak through a more masculine lens within the ABBA catalog. So, put on your dancing shoes with a touch of heartache, and get ready to be swept away by ABBA’s bluesy ballad, “Why Did It Have To Be Me.”

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