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A Salute in Song: The Top 15 ABBA Covers by Renowned Artists

Published January 2, 2024

The legendary group ABBA has etched a permanent mark in the music world since their breakthrough at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest. Their melodious influence continues to resonate across generations with timeless hits and successful ventures like the 'Mamma Mia!' musical and films, as well as an innovative live hologram concert. ABBA's music remains an inspiration, as numerous artists have interpreted their songs over the years, with some paying respect and others adding their unique touch to these classics.

1. Cher's Tribute Album

Cher, having fostered a personal connection with ABBA over the years, embraced their music wholeheartedly with her covers in 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.' This experience led to a dedicated album of ABBA covers, introducing their tunes to dance floors once again.

2. A*Teens Revive ABBA for the Youth

Swedish group A*Teens reimagined ABBA's discography for a new generation, infusing pop tracks with an energized beat, thus keeping the spirit of ABBA accessible to younger audiences.

3. 'Glee' Cast's Take on ABBA

The cast of 'Glee' has covered a wide range of songs, including ABBA's hits. Notably, Naya Rivera and Amber Riley's rendition of 'Dancing Queen' during a prom scene captured the joy synonymous with ABBA's music.

4. Sinead O'Connor's Poignant 'Chiquitita'

Sinead O'Connor lent her distinctive voice to an emotional version of 'Chiquitita,' a moving interpretation considering her own life's challenges.

5. Erasure's Synth-Pop Twist

In their 'ABBA-esque' EP, the synth-pop duo Erasure added their flamboyant flair to several of ABBA's songs, renewing interest in the group during a '90s resurgence.

6. Zara Larsson's Homage

Swedish sensation Zara Larsson honored ABBA by covering 'Lay All Your Love On Me' with her distinct hyper-pop style, amplifying ABBA's enduring influence in their homeland.

7. Kelly Clarkson's Emotional 'Dancing Queen'

Kelly Clarkson delivered a powerful ballad version of 'Dancing Queen' in her talk show segment 'Kellyoke,' showcasing her vocal strength and a deeper interpretation of the song's lyrics.

8. U2's Reinvented 'S.O.S.'

The iconic rock band U2 offered their version of 'S.O.S.' for the BBC, with Bono's signature vocals adding a soulful layer to ABBA's music.

9. Latin Pop Stars Embrace ABBA

ABBA's appeal crosses language barriers, proven by the album 'Dancing Queens: Un Tributo para ABBA,' where Latin American pop artists cover ABBA in both English and Spanish.

10. Westlife's Boyband Spin

Westlife transformed 'I Have A Dream' with their pop sensibilities, tailoring ABBA's sound for the pop charts of the early 2000s.

11. Jonathan Groff Sings 'Thank You For The Music'

Jonathan Groff took to the stage with 'Thank You For The Music,' a display of both vocal prowess and an intimate appreciation of ABBA's artistry.

12. Boy George's Disco Tribute

Boy George's rendition of 'Voulez-Vous' links the disco era with ABBA's danceable grooves, bringing his glam-rock energy to the cover.

13. Madonna Goes Deep

Before her sampling success with 'Hung Up,' Madonna recorded an unreleased cover of 'Like An Angel Passing Through My Room,' exploring ABBA's extensive catalog.

14. Kylie & Danii Minogue's Duet

Kylie and Danii Minogue joined forces to cover 'The Winner Takes It All,' a rendition showcasing the Minogue sisters' admiration and influence from ABBA's music.

15. Sarah Brightman's Operatic 'Arrival'

Sarah Brightman transformed 'Arrival' into a breathtaking operatic piece, proving ABBA's music adapts even to the most unexpected genres and styles.

covers, tributes, renditions