The Swedish pop group ABBA released the New Year's Eve song “Happy New Year” in 1980. The song appeared on the group’s album Super Trouper, which was released in November 1980.
“Happy New Year” was written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with lead vocals by Agnetha Fältskog and backing vocals from Anni-Frid Lyngstad. Its lyrics imagine a future society while reflecting on the uncertainty and hopes associated with the turn of a year.
Although the song is closely linked with New Year celebrations, it was not initially the same kind of universal midnight standard as “Auld Lang Syne.” Its popularity has grown through annual radio play, holiday playlists and performances in many countries. The song’s English title is also used in versions of the recording released for international audiences.
ABBA formed in Stockholm in 1972 and won the Eurovision Song Contest for Sweden in 1974 with “Waterloo.” “Happy New Year” belongs to the group’s later studio period, when its music often used more reflective themes and polished production.