the enduring popularity of abba is a phenomenon that continues to resonate across generations and diverse communities. this story, filled with anecdotes from those close to the band and their extended network, speaks to the universal appeal of their music.
from family members and colleagues to the waiters at their events, everyone recognizes the joy that abba's music brings.
isn't it a powerful response to those who simply want to dance and celebrate life? it's an experience that transcends boundaries, a feeling that seems to connect with people on a deeply emotional level. it's remarkable how such simple melodies and harmonies can evoke such happiness in so many.
why abba resonates with the lgbtq+ community
abba's music has a particularly strong connection with the lgbtq+ community, especially gay men.
would they approve of drag queens performing their songs? absolutely! without a doubt. the connection feels intrinsic and authentic. when considering current artists, billie eilish stands out as particularly interesting and innovative. taylor swift's songwriting also receives admiration.
the collaborative efforts of katy perry and max martin are also recognized for their impactful and catchy compositions.
queer icons and musical influences
when considering queer icons in music who have served as inspiration, george michael and freddie mercury are at the forefront.
abba considered queen to be their contemporaries. a memory surfaces of a television show in manchester where both bands were present, a moment marked by a friendly rivalry in a vast studio space. queen were a tremendous source of inspiration. similarly, george michael's artistry is admired.
his deceptive style, which often masked deeper emotions, is something to behold. there were never attempts to collaborate with other artists musically. the creative process within abba was a very insular one.
the creative process and solo endeavors
benny andersson and i would spend entire days together in a room with just a guitar and piano, working tirelessly on our music.
hearing cher sing their songs on mamma mia 2 was a humbling and enjoyable experience. cher was born to sing fernando, bringing a dark, mysterious quality to the song, evident in her voice, which is husky and full of character. while the first mamma mia movie spawned a successful stage musical, a stage adaptation of mamma mia 2 isn't envisioned.
a sequel to the stage musical would need to be something completely new and different. curiosity drives their creative decisions, a desire to see what their ideas can evolve into. any potential stage adaptation would need a completely different narrative.
the possibility of a third mamma mia film
is a third mamma mia film possible?
are there songs left that could be included? reflecting on a career spanning music, musicals, and films, one moment stands out: winning eurovision. it was a pivotal moment that changed everything. they were invited onto the stage as songwriters before the artists, and after that, everything became a whirlwind.
before eurovision, they were virtually unknown outside of scandinavia. suddenly, the entire world knew who they were. this recognition has led to various avenues of exploration, from tv shows and movies to drag performances and travel experiences.
abba's return and the lgbtq+ community's support
abba credits the gay community for their return to music.
stay updated by following outlets on your favorite social media platforms. recent stories also include updates on jakub jankto, an out gay soccer player, who announced his retirement. the narrative surrounding lil nas x is brought up, and the fierce queens competing on 'rupaul's drag race uk' season 7 are introduced.
lgbtq+ events and figures in the news
splash house is mentioned as a pride festival where gay individuals can freely express themselves.
a broadway controversy is discussed, along with david beckham's son, cruz, who gained attention for some pictures that resonated with the gay community. adult star rebecca more opens up about feeling 'sexed out' after years in the industry. jillian michaels alleges 'many lies' in a 'biggest loser' documentary.
addison rae responds to ben platt's viral cover of 'diet pepsi'. diego montoya's drag designs are celebrated as art, even landing them in a major museum. there's an examination of hiv, aiming to demystify it and give it a queer perspective.
social issues and cultural trends
the complexities of wearing a suit are considered.
duolingo apologizes for referencing j. rowling after a german lesson calls her 'cruel'. the relationship between beau and matt comes under scrutiny, and miss piggy is heading to broadway. katseye's new denim ad serves as a tutorial for sydney sweeney.
bluesky faced backlash for silencing trans voices over j. rowling.
current events and ongoing discussions
trending stories highlight trump's quiet ban on federal health insurance covering gender-affirming care. there's hope that messenger rna could lead to an hiv vaccine, but government cuts pose a threat.
the queer players on the us women's rugby world cup team are introduced. speculation swirls around christine baranski and king princess dating. messenger rna's potential hiv vaccine is discussed, this time with the obstacle of rfk jr. malcolm-jamal warner's hiv advocacy through film is celebrated.
the black aids institute's essential work is underscored. 'the talk' initiative aims to normalize hiv conversations.
community updates and important stories
the number of trans adults and kids residing in the u.s. is examined. florida threatens to remove rainbow crosswalks if city governments don't.
news breaks about florida quietly painting over the orlando pulse shooting memorial. recommended stories are tailored to individual interests. the nuances of what defines a lesbian bear are explored.
'the talk' expands beyond the exam room.