May 10, 2024
In the annals of Eurovision history, few moments are as memorable as ABBA’s 1974 victory with “Waterloo.” However, the iconic Swedish group’s path to triumph took an unexpected turn when the UK, the host country that year, awarded them a shocking “nul points.”
ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus recently shed light on this controversial incident, suggesting that the UK jury might have seen the Swedish group as a threat to their own contender, Olivia Newton-John.
The 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, held at the Brighton Dome, was set to be a triumphant moment for the UK. Olivia Newton-John, already a rising star, was a strong favorite with her song “Long Live Love.” A win would have secured the UK’s third victory in the competition. However, an unknown Swedish quartet named ABBA had other plans.
ABBA performing "Waterloo" at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, a performance that captivated Europe and launched them to international stardom.
ABBA’s performance of “Waterloo” was a burst of energy and charisma, a stark contrast to the ballads that often dominated Eurovision. The song, with its catchy melody and infectious lyrics, captivated audiences across Europe, securing ABBA a resounding victory.
However, amidst the jubilation, one score stood out: the UK’s “nul points” for ABBA. Decades later, the incident continues to raise eyebrows.
In a recent interview with the BBC, Björn Ulvaeus, ABBA’s songwriter and guitarist, offered a possible explanation for the UK’s surprising decision: strategic voting. Ulvaeus mused, “It certainly could have been because the Brits were the first ones to embrace us after winning, so the jury could have been as cunning as that – it’s very likely actually.”
He went on to express his bewilderment, “Because it’s kind of strange they would give us zero points. It sounds like they were trying to do something cunning.”
While the UK jury’s motivations remain a topic of speculation, the “nul points” did little to hinder ABBA’s meteoric rise to fame. “Waterloo” became an international sensation, topping charts worldwide and cementing ABBA’s status as global superstars.
Björn Ulvaeus, ABBA's songwriter and guitarist, reflects on the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest and the UK's surprising "nul points" for their winning song, "Waterloo."
Ulvaeus recalled the surreal experience of their sudden fame, saying, “We had gone overnight from this obscure Swedish band to world fame…so unreal.” He added that his bandmate, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, who is close friends with Olivia Newton-John, shared that Newton-John had sensed ABBA’s impending victory.
The 1974 Eurovision Song Contest marked a turning point in music history. ABBA’s “Waterloo” not only broke musical barriers but also demonstrated the power of a captivating performance and a well-crafted pop song. The UK’s “nul points,” while a curious footnote in Eurovision history, ultimately proved inconsequential in the face of ABBA’s undeniable talent and global appeal.
ABBA’s legacy extends far beyond their Eurovision win. The group’s music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and their influence can be felt across generations of musicians. Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a catchy tune, proving that even “nul points” can’t stop a true musical phenomenon.
