ABBA

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
You're so hot, teasing me
So you're blue, but I can't take a chance on a chick like you
That's something I couldn't do
There's that look in your eyes
I can read in your face that your feelings are driving you wild
Ah, but girl, you're only a child

[Chorus]
Well I can dance with you, honey
If you think it's funny
Does your mother know that you're out?
And I can chat with you, baby
Flirt a little, maybe
Does your mother know that you're out?

[Post-Chorus]
Take it easy, take it easy
Better slow down, girl
That's no way to go
Does your mother know?
Take it easy, take it easy
Try to cool it, girl
Take it nice and slow
Does your mother know?
[Verse 2]
I can see what you want
But you seem pretty young to be searching for that kind of fun
So maybe I'm not the one
Now you're so cute, I like your style
And I know what you mean when you give me a flash of that smile
Smile, but girl, you're only a child

[Chorus]
Well I can dance with you, honey
If you think it's funny
Does your mother know that you're out?
And I can chat with you, baby
Flirt a little, maybe
Does your mother know that you're out?

[Post-Chorus]
Take it easy, take it easy
Better slow down, girl
That's no way to go
Does your mother know?
Take it easy, take it easy
Try to cool it, girl
Take it nice and slow
Does your mother know?
[Chorus]
Well I can dance with you, honey
If you think it's funny
Does your mother know that you're out?
And I can chat with you, baby
Flirt a little, maybe
Does your mother know that you're out?
Well I can dance with you, honey
If you think it's funny
Does your mother know that you're out?
And I can chat with you, baby
Flirt a little, maybe
Does your mother know that you're out?
Well I can dance with you, honey
If you think it's funny
Does your mother know that you're out?
And I can chat with you, baby
Flirt a little, maybe...

When it comes to the legendary band ABBA, "Does Your Mother Know" is one of the most popular tunes. Written by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, the song was recorded in February 1979 and released as a single in April of the same year. It is the second song from their album Voulez-Vous and features male vocals by Bjorn Ulvaeus with female backing vocals.

This song has been an all-time favorite of fans worldwide for more than four decades now due to its catchy melody and relatable lyrics. Additionally, the fact that it has a different sound from the other ABBA songs on the same album makes it a standout.

About Does Your Mother Know

ABBA's "Does Your Mother Know" is a song that opens with a groovy guitar riff before launching into a danceable beat. It has an upbeat tempo, making it perfect for a night out at the disco or a party with friends. It is one of ABBA's few songs that actively feature a male member's vocals. Bjorn Ulvaeus delivers his parts with gusto, backed by the female vocals that were typical of the band's style.

According to the band members, they knew that "Does Your Mother Know" would become a hit. As members of the band themselves, Benny and Bjorn were eager to explore further into male vocals because it was an area that was often neglected in popular music at the time.

The song's lyrics revolve around a young man trying to pursue an older woman, and she is hesitant due to their age gap. The young man tries to reassure her that he's not just looking for a fling and would like to get to know her better. The lyrics are straightforward, easy to understand, and enjoyable to sing along.

The chorus features the lyrics, "Does your mother know that you're out?" and it encourages anyone young and in love to be confident about their choices. It shows a playful and flirtatious side of ABBA that was new to their discography.

ABBA was known for their ability to weave together stunning harmonies and complex arrangements. "Does Your Mother Know" features simple, easily identifiable hooks crafted by the group's talented songwriters. The song begins with a snappy electric guitar riff played by a teenage boy, then backed by sprightly piano notes. ABBA's trademark backing vocals come in quickly, providing the perfect backdrop for Ulvaeus's vocals.

The single went on to become a chart-topping hit in the UK and topped out in the top 20 positions in several countries worldwide. It remains a popular choice for cover bands, karaoke bars, and casual singalongs.

Despite being a beloved hit, "Does Your Mother Know" raised concerns among critics in light of the "Me Too" movement, a campaign that is aimed at ending sexual harassment and assault. Band member Bjorn Ulvaeus revealed in 2018 that he would hesitate to write songs like "Does Your Mother Know" because of the changing social climate. However, this does not diminish the song's significance nor its place in the annals of pop history.

In Conclusion

ABBA's "Does Your Mother Know" is a classic hit that will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come. It showcases the band's songwriting skills and their ability to create catchy melodies that stick in listeners' heads. The song remains an anthem for young people in love and is a testament to ABBA's ability to win new fans with their unique sound and playful lyrics.

It is one of the many brilliant songs produced by ABBA that made them a cultural universe unto themselves. It shows that, despite the time that has passed, ABBA's music is still as relevant and enjoyable as it was when it first came out.

• Release Date: April 27, 1979
• Artist: ABBA