ABBA

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
The summer air was soft and warm
The feeling right, the Paris night
Did its best to please us
And strolling down the Élysées
We had a drink in each café
And you
You talked of politics, philosophy
And I smiled like Mona Lisa

[Pre-Chorus]
We had our chance
It was a fine and true romance

[Chorus]
I can still recall our last summer
I still see it all
Walks along the Seine
Laughing in the rain
Our last summer
Memories that remain

[Verse 2]
We made our way along the river
And we sat down in the grass
By the Eiffel tower
I was so happy we had met
It was the age of no regret
Oh, yes
Those crazy years, that was the time
Of the flower-power
[Pre-Chorus]
But underneath we had a fear of flying
Of getting old, a fear of slowly dying
We took the chance
Like we were dancing our last dance

[Chorus]
I can still recall our last summer
I still see it all
In the tourist jam
Round the Notre Dame
Our last summer
Walking hand in hand
Paris restaurants
Our last summer
Morning croissants
Living for the day
Worries far away
Our last summer
We could laugh and play

[Interlude]

[Verse 3]
And now you're working in a bank
The family man, a football fan
And your name is Harry
[Pre-Chorus]
How dull it seems
Yet you're the hero of my dreams

[Chorus]
I can still recall our last summer
I still see it all
Walks along the Seine
Laughing in the rain
Our last summer
Memories that remain
I can still recall our last summer
I still see it all
In the tourist jam
Round the Notre Dame
Our last summer
Walking hand in hand
Paris restaurants
Our last summer
Morning croissants
We were living for the day
Worries far away
Our last summer...

ABBA’s “Our Last Summer” is a romantic tune that was released in 1980 as part of the “Super Trouper” album. The song is an upbeat and nostalgic track that takes listeners on a journey into the past, recounting the events that took place during a summer vacation. As one of the classics, “Our Last Summer” still resonates with fans today, reminding them of the highs and lows of their own summer memories. In this review, we will take a deeper look at the trajectory of “Our Last Summer” and why it continues to capture the hearts of fans around the world.

About Our Last Summer

Starting with the opening chords of “Our Last Summer,” we hear a story that speaks to the heart of the song’s emotional content. Throughout the tune, listeners are given glimpses of a summer romance, recounted in the past tense, that is both idyllic and bittersweet. The song is a perfect example of disco music’s ability to create emotionally compelling stories while maintaining an upbeat energy from start to finish.

Written by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, “Our Last Summer” was inspired by the nostalgia of summer vacations and the memories of youthful romance. The tune's content reminisces on youthful summer romances that can never be duplicated. Part of the success of this song comes through the vivid and detailed lyrics, which intricately describe the emotional ups and downs of that summer’s romance.

Thematically, “Our Last Summer” is a track that is rooted in the specificity of the past, yet speaks to the universality of human emotion. The song contains a sense of happiness, yet there's a sharp longing and grief that runs throughout. The song elevates into the chorus with the “But when you touch me like this/ And you hold me like that/ I just have to admit/ That it's all coming back to me.” These lyrics are a prime example of the power of disco’s ability to conjure emotions in its listeners, making them feel the connection between their lives and the song’s narrative.

The song's atmosphere is further amplified by the interplay of instruments and the strong vocal performances by the band's singers, Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Agnetha Faltskog. With upbeat rhythms, an upbeat tempo, and a bright sound, “Our Last Summer” has a lighthearted feel that immediately grabs the listeners’ attention, inviting them to participate in the band’s emotional journey.

“Our Last Summer” has resonated with audiences globally and continues to be one of ABBA's most beloved songs. From the song’s opening chords to the final refrain, the importance of this tune is clear. With powerful lyrics, bright instrumentals, and top-notch performances by the band, "Our Last Summer” is a classic piece that will never lose its charm or emotional impact. It's no surprise that this tune continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world, providing a perfect soundtrack for summer romance and nostalgia.

The Bottom Line

“Our Last Summer” is a timeless tune that has continued to captivate and resonate with listeners since its release in 1980. Written by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, the song tells a story of nostalgia and summer romance that is full of heart and emotion. With its upbeat personality and sweet lyrics, this is a classic genre piece that is not to be missed. Undeniably important to ABBA and disco music, “Our Last Summer” will undoubtedly continue to delight and move generations to come.

• Release Date: November 3, 1980
• Artist: ABBA