One of my favorites. And the harmonies are amongst the absolute best - gives me goosebumps every time. Frida's lead vocal is my favorite by her besides I Let The Music Speak. Fantastic. So glad they did let this out of the vault.
I absolutely adore this song, for me it’s one of the finest in their catalogue. I first discovered it on the TYFTM box set in 1994. Frida is in superb form and when Agnetha comes in on the harmony it’s just sublime.
7:52 I have always been absolutely FLOORED by these vocals from A&A. Hearing them in isolation was such a fantastic moment - thank you! The sheer power behind them is almost unbearable!
i recall the first time i played this song to my uncle (who was a tenor) and then to my mother(an amateur mezzo).Especially at the moment that Agnetha came in and joined Frida.They couldn't believe their ears,they both melted!The feeling of euphoria that was spread all over the room made them feel chills all over their skin.I just wanna observe that if real acoustic trumpets had been used instead of synths it would have been even more 'naturally' magnificent.
I first heard "Put On Your White Sombrero" on the 1994 box set, which I got as soon as it was released. That was a very happy day for me! I remember spot checking the the first three discs, but zooming my way to Disc 4 of the box set to focus on it during that first listening. I thought "Sombrero" was originally intended for the "Super Trouper" LP. However, Benny and Bjorn decided that they needed something up tempo, and then composed and used the song "Super Trouper." The instrumental introduction could easily have been edited down. I have often thought, what if "Sombrero" started off the album instead of "Super Trouper?" It would not have been as good a choice of an opening track for an album. Plus the album would need a new title! In further retrospect, they could have used both "Super Trouper" and "Sombrero" on the album. I think "Sombrero" would have worked wonderfully as the opening track for side two of the LP and then followed with the first four songs on the released version of side two. That means the album would have ended with "Lay All Your Love On Me" instead of the live "The Way Old Friends Do." I think that this would have made a nice alternate version of the album. Perhaps they were concerned that "Sombrero" was a bit "gimmicky" considering the success they recently had with "Chiquitita." I love "Sombrero", yet I think that "Cassandra" is on level that is just above, and on the same level as "The Day Before You Came." I am still hopeful that Benny and Bjorn will eventually realize that the completed sax mix of "Just Like That" deserves to be released and enjoyed by everyone. Thank you for yet another wonderful video!
Just the introduction music alone is beyond description, then when Frida starts singing it brings it to a higher level,when Agnetha joins in, it goes beyond all the superlative descriptions, their harmony rendition and blending of their voices is heavenly magic, nothing can compare or even come close to it......
Oh, the soaring vocals! I always feel like my heart is about to explode with that one. Some may see it as kitsch, but I think is rather more of a short movie, of what a Swedish fantasy is of a Mexican love. BTW, re listening to the backing vocals after "vaquero", their "quero, quero, quero" sounds very much as if they were singing "quiero, quiero, quiero" (I want), which would complete the the next phrase "I want (that you) don't show your feelings". What a coincidence! I'm lovng these series, BB, ans seeing you on camera more often.
I love it for the vocals alone. Frida's lead is amazingly strong and Agnetha gets some nice, soaring high notes in the background. Lyrically I think it sounds a little kitschy... I don't know if it would have done as well as Super Trouper. But I may be biased because I think Super Trouper is a masterpiece of a song. I was always surprised that they wrote it relatively quickly.
No , ST was definately the best choice and also a 'last minute' creation that came falling in the albums track list the right moment the right place.As far as i know it was written just when the lp was almost complete and about ready to be sent out for release.That was a fortunate chance for Abba's career and for Abba fans too.A new glorious No1 smash hit.It just clicked perfectly.
Like most of us, I first heard PoYWS with the release of the TYFtM box set in 1994. What initially struck me were Frida's vocals - so much vibrato! It was unlike so many finished productions fom ABBA, particularly during their "late" Super Trouper era, with perhaps the exception of "When All is Said and Done," when she lets rip a bit on the line "no taste for humble pie." On another completely different note, my Venezuelan husband finds this song hilarious. In what is no doubt an unintended lyrical faux pas, the song immediately reminds him of public service announcements in Latin America from years ago urging young men to "Ponte el sombrero!"- "Put on your sombrero!" - which is a euphemism to wear a condom. 🤣
I've always loved the melting of their two voices in the part "Oh... You'll never take me", and it reminds me of this part in Elaine: "it really doesn't matter...." This era of ABBA had their third voice completely on point (as both are from the Super Trouper era :) ) and I can think of other several examples. I completely love Put On Your White Sombrero, it's just magical, and grows on you more and more each time
As others have said, I have always liked this song from the first time I heard it. And I always wait in suspense for that final verse when Agnetha's vocals powerfully join Frida to make that final verse a triumphant masterpiece. The ABBA "third voice" or "the wall of sound" just hits you with force and it's simply amazing.
Analysis of this song by BB. Brilliant! I recognized it in 1994 immediately as a long lost gem! The vocals are heavenly, and also noticed the Cassandra connection, another song I also am very fond of. But it didn't fit into the Super Trouper album's song set, and I understand them not using it then. But very, very happy it was mixed and completed in 1994. This should of been recorded for their 1980 Spanish language album (this coming from a non-Spanish speaking person) but it probably was not written yet. This song, and "Just Like That" absolutely mesmerized my ears!!
Thank you so much for showcasing these brilliant originally unreleased songs!! When you spotlight Agnetha's and Frida's vocals together in isolation, it reminds me how they sound like a musical instrument of their own, unlike any other musical instrument!! Soaringly Beautiful!!! Two other uncompleted songs which I dream would be completed in full...."Just Like That" and "Hamlet 2". Thanks again for your always educating and inspiring posts on ABBA!!!😊
This song is sublime...the blend of voices is otherworldly....soaring is the only way to describe the moment when agnetha joins in....absolutely stunning....how the hell did this masterpiece get put aside......it's a testiment to the talent of bjorn and benny....p.s......love your sombrero 🤭
Thank you for this look at a most fabulous song. I loved it the moment I bought the box set, which was a treasure trove in itself. When you played the isolated vocals, I had on my headphones. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The majesty, the brilliance the incredible miracle that are Agnetha and Frida's vocals..oh my God. I turned up the volume as much as I could. I got chills. I also loved the look of sheer joy on your face when you were playing them! Your smile of such joy..that's the sign of a true ABBA fan!
I had come across the song title some time ago but chose not to listen to it for some reason, and today appears to be why. The song is beautiful, and I did catch the Cassandra undertones. I wish now that they had released it. It sounds absolutely stunning. Thanks for another top-notch report!
When those combined vocals start......never fails to send shivers up my spine. Pure heaven. And seeing your face when listening to the vocals is just wonderful because I think we all have exactly the same reaction when hearing it!
BB thank you for another great video, looking forward to the next one. I first came across the wonderful POYWS in 1997 when it was added to the Super Trouper record. I can’t remember first hearing it, but it has been one of my favourite ABBA songs. Anni-Frid’s vocals are awesome, as is Agnetha’s. An incredible track that is just left on shelf. That’s how amazing ABBA are. 😉🇬🇧🇺🇦
Such an immersive song musically, lyrically and especially vocally. Love this style of music,Bjorn and Benny absolutely nailing another genre of music.Incredible how ABBA can convert their English music into Spanish and with this song bring Spanish music into English,again,reinforces their talents and diversity. LOVE this song and again adds to their colourful tapestry that we get to experience and love and admire.
I remember when I bought Thank You For The Music in 1994, it had several songs I didn't know and this one was surprising to me only just for the kitschy title. Then I discovered superb vocals by Frida (maybe among the best ones by her) and just HEAVEN when Agnetha joins her for the final part. All vocals give me goosebumps. On the other hand, the style and production of the song I think it's a little kitschy. Maybe that's because I'm spanish? I don't know. I like the message of the lyrics a lot, kind of "I Will Survive", although again, the use of spanish words contributes the kitschy thing. But again, vocals are amazing and I do adore them.
Where to begin?!!? First, Love, love, love the hat!! Second, this is the first time I’ve heard this and I am mesmerized by Frida’s voice: I knew she was good, but this is magnificent: She holds the notes then immediately, seamlessly goes into a faster “beat.” It’s amazing. Thanks again for making these videos!!!
3:27!My God how sweet and so young! 2 unsuspicious dudes never imagining what was to come.I could have easily been Benny's twin brother or even his 'doppelgagner' at that age since we were so alike, lol.I think he was already a father of two at that very young age.7:27/7:54-8.30!The sparkling look of your face reflects the 'undiscribable'.That's how i also felt and still feel while listening to this.
I can't remember how I discovered this song but most likely I stumbled across it on TH-cam sometime during the pandemic lock-downs. This is the time when I rediscovered ABBA and much of their music, especially their final two albums (now three) which were a surprise to me.
POYWS is one of ABBA songs that makes my body shiver, brings tears to my eyes and embodies everything that makes A and F's vocals the voice of ABBA. It's perfect. So glad they let us hear it 14 years later.
It certainly is a rediscovered gem. Although some other female singers have --fruitlessly-- tried to sing this son -- even with a nice voice and full orchestra and dancers --but there is no way to match the beauty, talent and power of Frida and Agnetta.
I remember a friend playing the song via a landline phone and when Frida’s voice came on I just burst into tears. I do think however that this song is still largely unknown to the public which is a shame. Your videos are not only informative but utterly entertaining as well as you’re going from strength to strength.
Thanks BB for a fascinating video, discovered when I bought the box set. POYWS is a favourite of mine, that soaring vocal near the end with the girls voices coming together gives me cold shivers still. That long musical intro at the start also intriguing.. A great review on the working & reworking of one of my favourites. Thankyou BB, love the background on these outtakes.. Looking forward to the next one..
Hi, Bobby's brother, it was like an emotional tsunami listening to this song for the first time. New Abba 's material !!! Love the vocals arrangements even the song is not my favourite.
I first heard "Put On Your White Sombrero" when I bought the 4-Disc box set. Being Latino, I was excited to hear the Latin sound, then their vocals were amazing, the melody was addicting but the best part was how the song builds. It stars off strong, but gets more and more intense with their vocals till near the end when they're almost screaming in magnificent harmony! It's one of my favorite ABBA songs to sing alone in my car at the top of my lungs!
Hallo Bobby, habe das Lied im Radio gehört. Erst sang Frida und dann kam Agnetha dazu. Hammer. Es haut mich auch noch heute um. Danke Agnetha ❤ ❤ Frida ❤ ♥️ für eure wunderschönen Stimmen. ❤. Claudia aus Lübeck
The song has too much synthesizers, but those voices… oh my god. Goosebumps every time I hear this. Never was there a duo that blended so well together❤
What an amazing video on one of my favorite ABBA songs ever!!! Being from the younger generation, I discovered it completely by chance on TH-cam back in the day and was immediately floored by it. I remember thinking: "WOW, there never is an end to discovering something new by ABBA, is there?" And to quote Dave Grohl: "ABBA can do no wrong!" I absolutely adore this song, it makes me wanna dance along every time with its beautiful Mexican tone - by the way, I love the fact that ABBA, being from Sweden, dove so deep into Latin American music in quite a few of their songs and even recorded an entire Spanish-language album later! The "Grácias Por La Música" compilation is one of my favorite ABBA albums to listen to, I've put it on so many times! Which brings me to the only point that really makes me sad when thinking about this song - why, o why did they completely forget about it and not reconsider it for their Spanish language versions?? If there is one song, besides "Fernando", "Chiquitita" and "Hasta Manana" destined to be sung in Spanish, its this one!!! Imagine how incredible that would have sounded...! Speaking of incredible, I agree with what has been said, this song is one of the examples of the Third Voice to the max - thank you for isolating the vocals, shivers all over! And also, I agree with you, BB, Frida was the perfect leading lady for this song about this empowered woman, and of course, Agnetha adds her unmistakable flavor to the story. And quick sidenote, love your hat, BB, and especially seeing your reaction on camera - so beautiful to see your emotions when listening! Looking forward to the next video - thank you for the teaser!
The magical blend of vocals that results into the astoundingly enigmatic, goosebump inducing "third ABBA voice" is showcased to best effect in the soaring chorus here. It ranks prominently among other best examples such as "Hole In Your Soul" and "If It Wasn't For The Nights". Thank you Bobby's B - for another fascinating, insightful commentary.
Absolutely mind blowing amazing voices ...! I would love to have Hamlet II as a finished song... a masterpiece as well. Thanks again for yet another brilliant video BB!
I really really adore these series , as always great and marvelous content ❤ I have been listening a Iot to am the City lately, so I can’t wait to watch that video , thank you thank you thank you ! 🎉
Never heard the song till 94 but just before the super trouper álbum was realised i remember there was a taking that put on your White sombrero was going to be the new single . Then the álbum comes and the song never again was Heard of untill 94
Abba undeleted was my favorite part. I had the thank you for the music box set I started though by buying abba gold and more abba gold and still to this day I have the same more abba gold cassette and I'm keeping it because the newer releases on cd are longer in running time I love my abba collection I also have the albums box set from last year I have a 2014 singles box set that is my favorite now
Thanks so much for doing this series of ABBA outtakes BB. I'll never forget the excitement I had for the TYFTM box set containing this beautiful completed gem, Dream World & Undeleted - I think it's still my favourite ABBA compilation to date. So many first CD releases of singles was a huge drawcard for me too🥰
I have loved POYWS since first listen off the 1994 box set. Love the style, the flavor, the girls combined voices are high octane. I want this song on vinyl record. When I listen to this song I always visualize an old western style music video done in letterbox cinemascope. And I would love to direct it !
I discovered "Put on your white sombrero" when I bought "Super Trouper" on CD. And I was amazed, so beautiful the song is. I hadn't heard it before, not on the radio, not in the many Abba collections. Never mentioned by anyone. How had it been possible? The music is superb, and the words too. A woman is leaving a man with mixed feelings: some compassion, some cynicism, some pride, and though some regret, because she realizes in a way that she shouldn't, and she is sorry for being harsh to him... How can you compress all this in the verses of a single song, simple and perfect?
I first heard this song when I bought the 1997 remastered version of Super Trouper in about 1998 which contains the bonus tracks Gimme Gimme Gimme, Elaine (which I already knew as a B side of The Winner) and this. The booklet that comes with the CD says it was “scheduled to be included on the album, but was removed from it not long before the album was scheduled for release (and replaced by the title track, the last song recorded for that album).” So I have always assumed before watching your video just now that the song was completed in 1980 but removed because the album format could only contain a certain amount of material before sound quality suffers. I assumed they had agonised over what to remove, because the album has no mediocre tracks at all. Super Trouper was the first album I had, given to me for my 16th birthday, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It’s pure pop perfection with such a range of styles. I listened to it pretty well daily through much of 1981! So when I heard POYWS for the first time in 1998, I immediately saw how it fitted perfectly with the Super Trouper sound and was pretty much beside myself with joy. I would experiment with where it would fit in the album sequence, although its placement at the end of the remastered version is pretty well perfect. I just love the long musical introduction, then the sound of Frida to be later joined by the soaring vocals of Agnetha and then the combination. A magical song that I felt should have been on the original album, but what else would they have removed instead?
Put On Your White Sombrero actually got released on a very rare CD single which I have. It didn't chart as it wasn't aimed to sell in that way but was, I think included as CD single for those few that bought a special edition of ABBA Gold. I'm glad it was left off Super Trouper as it wouldn't have fitted. Also, as a person with Spanish blood and temperament, I agree totally that it was "Latin overkill" with too many stereotypes used which didn't sit well in my Hispanic upbringing.
Yes i agree.I love 'Sombrero' but ST was just the cherry in the pie that the album just needed.POYWS could have been a good b side to the festive sound of the ST single or even to the maxi single release of LAYLOM to attract more sales as a bonus track with some more acoustic instruments.Vocals are heavenly..
Harmony from a choir of angels. Now very off topic but relevant: i'd love an Abbatar performance of Dont Shut Me Down (by satellite) to shut down the Grammys
In summer 1994, I read that this song, along with other unreleased songs were coming by years' end in a box set, so I was just counting the days till it was released. Sombrero was very dramatic and emotional for me as I had been waiting for it months in advance. The whole Undeleted medley as well was such an amazing experience. Little did we know in 1994, that ABBA would return again in the future with a whole new album.
I ignored the box set when it came out, not realizing there were never released songs on it. It took me 25 years to finally discover all those lost gems. Sombrero is fabulous. And I like how your isolated vocals superbly highlight the 3rd voice phenomenon.
7:28 your facial expressions are invaluable.Reflects how many of us feel while listening to this UTOPIC vocal blending.My God , A+F ....A cosmic meeting.
I had never even heard of this song until I bought the TYFTM boxset in 1994. I was absolutely blown away when I heard it. Those vocals, especially when Agnetha joins in. I really can’t understand why they never thought the song was good enough in 1980. But then I think Benny and Björn are too critical of their work. Don’t get me started on Just Like That :-)
One of my fave outtakes. I believe it was supposed to be one of the first Super Trouper sessions and was intended to go on the album as the lead song but was scrapped by Super Trouper and the subssequent songs that made the album.
I stumbled onto POYWS by accident here on TH-cam about 5 or so years ago, maybe longer. I think this may be one of ABBA's best 2 songs. (The Day Before You Came?) I have not stopped whistling, humming or singing this song every day since I discovered it. Thank you so much for this deep dive into "Sombrero"!
One of my all time favourites, listening to it in 1994 was nothing but joy, for a moment in that time ABBA had come back and left us a wonderful bonus in that box set. A permanent track in my car playlist!!!
Of course there’s still “Just Like That” - which already has recorded vocals and multiple instrumental versions (La la la, Sax, base). The boys need to step up and finalize it. Relatively little effort for as song that they know that the fans already love.
To be honest, I didn't really loved "White Sombrero" when the box set first came out. I thought the production was too schlageresque and cheesy and the long winded intro was off putting. The song grew on me since then, the vocals are too brillant to be ignored, and the lyrics are good (but not as hard hitting as in "Should I Laugh Or Cry"). Now I notice a quite similar theme in Kacey Musgraves "Space Cowboy". :)
When I bought the ABBA 4-disc box set, "Thank You For The Music"......I was so pleased at how many surprises I would find.........the rare B-sides........and the ABBA Undeleted. ♫♫♫♫♪♪♪♪♪♪♪♪
One of my favorites. And the harmonies are amongst the absolute best - gives me goosebumps every time. Frida's lead vocal is my favorite by her besides I Let The Music Speak. Fantastic. So glad they did let this out of the vault.
I absolutely adore this song, for me it’s one of the finest in their catalogue. I first discovered it on the TYFTM box set in 1994. Frida is in superb form and when Agnetha comes in on the harmony it’s just sublime.
It's a brilliant song with vocals that are out of this world. 👌
7:52 I have always been absolutely FLOORED by these vocals from A&A. Hearing them in isolation was such a fantastic moment - thank you! The sheer power behind them is almost unbearable!
Put on your white Sombrero may be my favorite blending of the girls voices, and does bring a tear to my eye when the fantastic Third Voice arrives.
i recall the first time i played this song to my uncle (who was a tenor) and then to my mother(an amateur mezzo).Especially at the moment that Agnetha came in and joined Frida.They couldn't believe their ears,they both melted!The feeling of euphoria that was spread all over the room made them feel chills all over their skin.I just wanna observe that if real acoustic trumpets had been used instead of synths it would have been even more 'naturally' magnificent.
I definitely agree with it.
Vocally and musically divine.. A treasure ❤️
Those voices 💕💕💕 pure perfection
ABBA is pure Joy. ABBA is everything! But looking at your face and your smile is wonderful. Thank you for sharing your love for ABBA this way!
I first heard "Put On Your White Sombrero" on the 1994 box set, which I got as soon as it was released. That was a very happy day for me! I remember spot checking the the first three discs, but zooming my way to Disc 4 of the box set to focus on it during that first listening.
I thought "Sombrero" was originally intended for the "Super Trouper" LP. However, Benny and Bjorn decided that they needed something up tempo, and then composed and used the song "Super Trouper." The instrumental introduction could easily have been edited down. I have often thought, what if "Sombrero" started off the album instead of "Super Trouper?" It would not have been as good a choice of an opening track for an album. Plus the album would need a new title! In further retrospect, they could have used both "Super Trouper" and "Sombrero" on the album. I think "Sombrero" would have worked wonderfully as the opening track for side two of the LP and then followed with the first four songs on the released version of side two. That means the album would have ended with "Lay All Your Love On Me" instead of the live "The Way Old Friends Do." I think that this would have made a nice alternate version of the album. Perhaps they were concerned that "Sombrero" was a bit "gimmicky" considering the success they recently had with "Chiquitita." I love "Sombrero", yet I think that "Cassandra" is on level that is just above, and on the same level as "The Day Before You Came."
I am still hopeful that Benny and Bjorn will eventually realize that the completed sax mix of "Just Like That" deserves to be released and enjoyed by everyone. Thank you for yet another wonderful video!
And thank YOU for your wonderful Sunday At Seven mix of Keep An Eye On Dan. Brilliant work.
Just the introduction music alone is beyond description, then when Frida starts singing it brings it to a higher level,when Agnetha joins in, it goes beyond all the superlative descriptions, their harmony rendition and blending of their voices is heavenly magic, nothing can compare or even come close to it......
Oh, the soaring vocals! I always feel like my heart is about to explode with that one. Some may see it as kitsch, but I think is rather more of a short movie, of what a Swedish fantasy is of a Mexican love. BTW, re listening to the backing vocals after "vaquero", their "quero, quero, quero" sounds very much as if they were singing "quiero, quiero, quiero" (I want), which would complete the the next phrase "I want (that you) don't show your feelings". What a coincidence! I'm lovng these series, BB, ans seeing you on camera more often.
No kitsch at all.This is a small heavenly pop opera at its best that was buried in Abba's treasured timecapsule..
I love it for the vocals alone. Frida's lead is amazingly strong and Agnetha gets some nice, soaring high notes in the background. Lyrically I think it sounds a little kitschy... I don't know if it would have done as well as Super Trouper. But I may be biased because I think Super Trouper is a masterpiece of a song. I was always surprised that they wrote it relatively quickly.
No , ST was definately the best choice and also a 'last minute' creation that came falling in the albums track list the right moment the right place.As far as i know it was written just when the lp was almost complete and about ready to be sent out for release.That was a fortunate chance for Abba's career and for Abba fans too.A new glorious No1 smash hit.It just clicked perfectly.
Like most of us, I first heard PoYWS with the release of the TYFtM box set in 1994. What initially struck me were Frida's vocals - so much vibrato! It was unlike so many finished productions fom ABBA, particularly during their "late" Super Trouper era, with perhaps the exception of "When All is Said and Done," when she lets rip a bit on the line "no taste for humble pie." On another completely different note, my Venezuelan husband finds this song hilarious. In what is no doubt an unintended lyrical faux pas, the song immediately reminds him of public service announcements in Latin America from years ago urging young men to "Ponte el sombrero!"- "Put on your sombrero!" - which is a euphemism to wear a condom. 🤣
BEST ABBA ANECDOTE EVER! 😄😄😄😄
Yes a very remarkable song. It still sends chills and joy to my body and Soul.
You got a big laugh from me about the Condom warning!! 😂😅
Viva ABBA!❤❤
Isolating the vocals sends chills down my spine with how well done they are, the harmonies are just so perfect
This is up there with the best Abba '3rd voice' vocal blending. They really are heavenly. I never tire of listening to this.
Great video Bobby
I've always loved the melting of their two voices in the part "Oh... You'll never take me", and it reminds me of this part in Elaine: "it really doesn't matter...."
This era of ABBA had their third voice completely on point (as both are from the Super Trouper era :) ) and I can think of other several examples.
I completely love Put On Your White Sombrero, it's just magical, and grows on you more and more each time
Absolutely,,, I don't know how many layers there were there but it's out of this world
As others have said, I have always liked this song from the first time I heard it. And I always wait in suspense for that final verse when Agnetha's vocals powerfully join Frida to make that final verse a triumphant masterpiece. The ABBA "third voice" or "the wall of sound" just hits you with force and it's simply amazing.
"Put on your white sombrero" from ABBA is a very strong song!
Omg- the vocals🔥💥☄️
Analysis of this song by BB. Brilliant! I recognized it in 1994 immediately as a long lost gem! The vocals are heavenly, and also noticed the Cassandra connection, another song I also am very fond of. But it didn't fit into the Super Trouper album's song set, and I understand them not using it then. But very, very happy it was mixed and completed in 1994. This should of been recorded for their 1980 Spanish language album (this coming from a non-Spanish speaking person) but it probably was not written yet. This song, and "Just Like That" absolutely mesmerized my ears!!
Thank you so much for showcasing these brilliant originally unreleased songs!! When you spotlight Agnetha's and Frida's vocals together in isolation, it reminds me how they sound like a musical instrument of their own, unlike any other musical instrument!! Soaringly Beautiful!!! Two other uncompleted songs which I dream would be completed in full...."Just Like That" and "Hamlet 2". Thanks again for your always educating and inspiring posts on ABBA!!!😊
This song is sublime...the blend of voices is otherworldly....soaring is the only way to describe the moment when agnetha joins in....absolutely stunning....how the hell did this masterpiece get put aside......it's a testiment to the talent of bjorn and benny....p.s......love your sombrero 🤭
Thank you for this look at a most fabulous song. I loved it the moment I bought the box set, which was a treasure trove in itself. When you played the isolated vocals, I had on my headphones. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The majesty, the brilliance the incredible miracle that are Agnetha and Frida's vocals..oh my God. I turned up the volume as much as I could. I got chills. I also loved the look of sheer joy on your face when you were playing them! Your smile of such joy..that's the sign of a true ABBA fan!
I had come across the song title some time ago but chose not to listen to it for some reason, and today appears to be why. The song is beautiful, and I did catch the Cassandra undertones. I wish now that they had released it. It sounds absolutely stunning. Thanks for another top-notch report!
When those combined vocals start......never fails to send shivers up my spine. Pure heaven. And seeing your face when listening to the vocals is just wonderful because I think we all have exactly the same reaction when hearing it!
BB thank you for another great video, looking forward to the next one.
I first came across the wonderful POYWS in 1997 when it was added to the Super Trouper record. I can’t remember first hearing it, but it has been one of my favourite ABBA songs. Anni-Frid’s vocals are awesome, as is Agnetha’s. An incredible track that is just left on shelf. That’s how amazing ABBA are. 😉🇬🇧🇺🇦
Such an immersive song musically, lyrically and especially vocally. Love this style of music,Bjorn and Benny absolutely nailing another genre of music.Incredible how ABBA can convert their English music into Spanish and with this song bring Spanish music into English,again,reinforces their talents and diversity. LOVE this song and again adds to their colourful tapestry that we get to experience and love and admire.
What's a voices !!!! It's sound's fantastic 🎵🎶✨✨👑👑🥰😍
I remember when I bought Thank You For The Music in 1994, it had several songs I didn't know and this one was surprising to me only just for the kitschy title. Then I discovered superb vocals by Frida (maybe among the best ones by her) and just HEAVEN when Agnetha joins her for the final part. All vocals give me goosebumps. On the other hand, the style and production of the song I think it's a little kitschy. Maybe that's because I'm spanish? I don't know. I like the message of the lyrics a lot, kind of "I Will Survive", although again, the use of spanish words contributes the kitschy thing. But again, vocals are amazing and I do adore them.
Where to begin?!!? First, Love, love, love the hat!! Second, this is the first time I’ve heard this and I am mesmerized by Frida’s voice: I knew she was good, but this is magnificent: She holds the notes then immediately, seamlessly goes into a faster “beat.” It’s amazing. Thanks again for making these videos!!!
This is one of my favourite Abba songs ever. The backing vocals and harmonies are divine!
3:27!My God how sweet and so young! 2 unsuspicious dudes never imagining what was to come.I could have easily been Benny's twin brother or even his 'doppelgagner' at that age since we were so alike, lol.I think he was already a father of two at that very young age.7:27/7:54-8.30!The sparkling look of your face reflects the 'undiscribable'.That's how i also felt and still feel while listening to this.
I can't remember how I discovered this song but most likely I stumbled across it on TH-cam sometime during the pandemic lock-downs. This is the time when I rediscovered ABBA and much of their music, especially their final two albums (now three) which were a surprise to me.
one of my ABBA favourite songs... great review!
POYWS is one of ABBA songs that makes my body shiver, brings tears to my eyes and embodies everything that makes A and F's vocals the voice of ABBA. It's perfect. So glad they let us hear it 14 years later.
It certainly is a rediscovered gem. Although some other female singers have --fruitlessly-- tried to sing this son -- even with a nice voice and full orchestra and dancers --but there is no way to match the beauty, talent and power of Frida and Agnetta.
I remember a friend playing the song via a landline phone and when Frida’s voice came on I just burst into tears.
I do think however that this song is still largely unknown to the public which is a shame.
Your videos are not only informative but utterly entertaining as well as you’re going from strength to strength.
Thanks for this wonderful work, Bobby. I'm from México and yes, the song will sound excellent too with a real mariachi..!!
'You'll never take me just as I am, I need a man who is in rhyme with his time.' Cuts across all cultures.
Thanks BB for a fascinating video, discovered when I bought the box set. POYWS is a favourite of mine, that soaring vocal near the end with the girls voices coming together gives me cold shivers still. That long musical intro at the start also intriguing.. A great review on the working & reworking of one of my favourites. Thankyou BB, love the background on these outtakes.. Looking forward to the next one..
I love this song when I first heard it it sounded like a new song
My dear Aggy , Frida sing very nicely, overcame all in vocal in pop singing.
Hi, Bobby's brother, it was like an emotional tsunami listening to this song for the first time. New Abba 's material !!! Love the vocals arrangements even the song is not my favourite.
I first heard "Put On Your White Sombrero" when I bought the 4-Disc box set. Being Latino, I was excited to hear the Latin sound, then their vocals were amazing, the melody was addicting but the best part was how the song builds. It stars off strong, but gets more and more intense with their vocals till near the end when they're almost screaming in magnificent harmony! It's one of my favorite ABBA songs to sing alone in my car at the top of my lungs!
Fabulous song , I still get the goose bumps!👍
Hallo Bobby, habe das Lied im Radio gehört. Erst sang Frida und dann kam Agnetha dazu. Hammer. Es haut mich auch noch heute um. Danke Agnetha ❤ ❤ Frida ❤ ♥️ für eure wunderschönen Stimmen. ❤. Claudia aus Lübeck
Those harmonies are breathtaking! The voices are like razors!
Thanks BB!
😉 yes , well said! The vouces, so Metallic, so Beautiful! ❤
The song has too much synthesizers, but those voices… oh my god. Goosebumps every time I hear this. Never was there a duo that blended so well together❤
Voices a excellent!!
What an amazing video on one of my favorite ABBA songs ever!!! Being from the younger generation, I discovered it completely by chance on TH-cam back in the day and was immediately floored by it. I remember thinking: "WOW, there never is an end to discovering something new by ABBA, is there?" And to quote Dave Grohl: "ABBA can do no wrong!" I absolutely adore this song, it makes me wanna dance along every time with its beautiful Mexican tone - by the way, I love the fact that ABBA, being from Sweden, dove so deep into Latin American music in quite a few of their songs and even recorded an entire Spanish-language album later! The "Grácias Por La Música" compilation is one of my favorite ABBA albums to listen to, I've put it on so many times! Which brings me to the only point that really makes me sad when thinking about this song - why, o why did they completely forget about it and not reconsider it for their Spanish language versions?? If there is one song, besides "Fernando", "Chiquitita" and "Hasta Manana" destined to be sung in Spanish, its this one!!! Imagine how incredible that would have sounded...! Speaking of incredible, I agree with what has been said, this song is one of the examples of the Third Voice to the max - thank you for isolating the vocals, shivers all over! And also, I agree with you, BB, Frida was the perfect leading lady for this song about this empowered woman, and of course, Agnetha adds her unmistakable flavor to the story. And quick sidenote, love your hat, BB, and especially seeing your reaction on camera - so beautiful to see your emotions when listening! Looking forward to the next video - thank you for the teaser!
POYWS is one of my favourites, up there with Cassandra and Like an Angel. I can't wait to hear what you have to say about IATC.
This is a good song. And I know that you're going to make your next video about " I am the city "thanks for the little hint bb 😁
The magical blend of vocals that results into the astoundingly enigmatic, goosebump inducing "third ABBA voice" is showcased to best effect in the soaring chorus here. It ranks prominently among other best examples such as "Hole In Your Soul" and "If It Wasn't For The Nights". Thank you Bobby's B - for another fascinating, insightful commentary.
I love your videos keep them coming 'Put On Your White Sombrero' is beautiful and parts of the melody were reused in 'Cassandra'.
It is just sheer joy, to hear their voices.
I love this song, always have since l discovered it when l bought the box set in 1994.
Harmonies beyond compare.
Absolutely mind blowing amazing voices ...!
I would love to have Hamlet II as a finished song... a masterpiece as well.
Thanks again for yet another brilliant video BB!
Definitely Love this song. 😍😍😍
I really really adore these series , as always great and marvelous content ❤ I have been listening a Iot to am the City lately, so I can’t wait to watch that video , thank you thank you thank you ! 🎉
Never heard the song till 94 but just before the super trouper álbum was realised i remember there was a taking that put on your White sombrero was going to be the new single . Then the álbum comes and the song never again was Heard of untill 94
Abba undeleted was my favorite part. I had the thank you for the music box set I started though by buying abba gold and more abba gold and still to this day I have the same more abba gold cassette and I'm keeping it because the newer releases on cd are longer in running time I love my abba collection I also have the albums box set from last year I have a 2014 singles box set that is my favorite now
Thanks so much for doing this series of ABBA outtakes BB. I'll never forget the excitement I had for the TYFTM box set containing this beautiful completed gem, Dream World & Undeleted - I think it's still my favourite ABBA compilation to date. So many first CD releases of singles was a huge drawcard for me too🥰
I have loved POYWS since first listen off the 1994 box set. Love the style, the flavor, the girls combined voices are high octane. I want this song on vinyl record. When I listen to this song I always visualize an old western style music video done in letterbox cinemascope. And I would love to direct it !
I discovered "Put on your white sombrero" when I bought "Super Trouper" on CD. And I was amazed, so beautiful the song is. I hadn't heard it before, not on the radio, not in the many Abba collections. Never mentioned by anyone. How had it been possible? The music is superb, and the words too. A woman is leaving a man with mixed feelings: some compassion, some cynicism, some pride, and though some regret, because she realizes in a way that she shouldn't, and she is sorry for being harsh to him... How can you compress all this in the verses of a single song, simple and perfect?
Fascinating and so well put together sir. Keep ‘em coming!
J'adore cette chanson très mexicaine et le vibrato de Frida. Une pure merveille ! Sans oublier l'harmonie vocale unique de Frida et Agnetha. ❤❤
Love hearing the ladies' vocals and how they layer them to make that magical ABBA sound. You look cute wearing your hat, BTW ! 😀
I first heard this song when I bought the 1997 remastered version of Super Trouper in about 1998 which contains the bonus tracks Gimme Gimme Gimme, Elaine (which I already knew as a B side of The Winner) and this. The booklet that comes with the CD says it was “scheduled to be included on the album, but was removed from it not long before the album was scheduled for release (and replaced by the title track, the last song recorded for that album).” So I have always assumed before watching your video just now that the song was completed in 1980 but removed because the album format could only contain a certain amount of material before sound quality suffers. I assumed they had agonised over what to remove, because the album has no mediocre tracks at all.
Super Trouper was the first album I had, given to me for my 16th birthday, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It’s pure pop perfection with such a range of styles. I listened to it pretty well daily through much of 1981!
So when I heard POYWS for the first time in 1998, I immediately saw how it fitted perfectly with the Super Trouper sound and was pretty much beside myself with joy. I would experiment with where it would fit in the album sequence, although its placement at the end of the remastered version is pretty well perfect. I just love the long musical introduction, then the sound of Frida to be later joined by the soaring vocals of Agnetha and then the combination. A magical song that I felt should have been on the original album, but what else would they have removed instead?
Hej BB
A very beautiful and vocaly stunning song I love the Latin flavours ❤ and Fridas lead is subliminal ❤
You need to make a video someday about the legendary mr. Tretow
The connection you made to Cassandra!!! Omg
Put On Your White Sombrero actually got released on a very rare CD single which I have. It didn't chart as it wasn't aimed to sell in that way but was, I think included as CD single for those few that bought a special edition of ABBA Gold.
I'm glad it was left off Super Trouper as it wouldn't have fitted. Also, as a person with Spanish blood and temperament, I agree totally that it was "Latin overkill" with too many stereotypes used which didn't sit well in my Hispanic upbringing.
Yes i agree.I love 'Sombrero' but ST was just the cherry in the pie that the album just needed.POYWS could have been a good b side to the festive sound of the ST single or even to the maxi single release of LAYLOM to attract more sales as a bonus track with some more acoustic instruments.Vocals are heavenly..
PUT ON YOUR WHITE SOMRERO é uma música maravilhosa e mostra a GENIALIDADE do Benny e Byorn e as vozes sem igual da Agnetha e Frida.
Harmony from a choir of angels. Now very off topic but relevant: i'd love an Abbatar performance of Dont Shut Me Down (by satellite) to shut down the Grammys
In summer 1994, I read that this song, along with other unreleased songs were coming by years' end in a box set, so I was just counting the days till it was released. Sombrero was very dramatic and emotional for me as I had been waiting for it months in advance. The whole Undeleted medley as well was such an amazing experience. Little did we know in 1994, that ABBA would return again in the future with a whole new album.
Put on your white sombrero is aVery beautiful song in words that really suits the amazing melody for super ABBA band ❤ 🎶🎶💖
Os 4 fantásticos ABBA melhor grupo musical do mundo atravessou gerações
I ignored the box set when it came out, not realizing there were never released songs on it. It took me 25 years to finally discover all those lost gems. Sombrero is fabulous. And I like how your isolated vocals superbly highlight the 3rd voice phenomenon.
My one favourite of ABBA 🥰
Hey, hey, I found the song as a live cover version by Dana Winner on TH-cam. I like it. I guess you know it.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if Benny & Bjorn allowed an official release of ABBA acapella songs?!
7:28 your facial expressions are invaluable.Reflects how many of us feel while listening to this UTOPIC vocal blending.My God , A+F ....A cosmic meeting.
I had never even heard of this song until I bought the TYFTM boxset in 1994. I was absolutely blown away when I heard it. Those vocals, especially when Agnetha joins in. I really can’t understand why they never thought the song was good enough in 1980. But then I think Benny and Björn are too critical of their work. Don’t get me started on Just Like That :-)
Yes! I know exactly what you mean. I love it too! ABBA is unbelievable so unique in everything they create!!❤
One of my fave outtakes. I believe it was supposed to be one of the first Super Trouper sessions and was intended to go on the album as the lead song but was scrapped by Super Trouper and the subssequent songs that made the album.
Absolutely adore this track.
ABBA Forever!
I stumbled onto POYWS by accident here on TH-cam about 5 or so years ago, maybe longer. I think this may be one of ABBA's best 2 songs. (The Day Before You Came?) I have not stopped whistling, humming or singing this song every day since I discovered it. Thank you so much for this deep dive into "Sombrero"!
What a great discovery and appreciation you had. Thanks for your comment. Cheers, BB
One of my all time favourites, listening to it in 1994 was nothing but joy, for a moment in that time ABBA had come back and left us a wonderful bonus in that box set. A permanent track in my car playlist!!!
Of course there’s still “Just Like That” - which already has recorded vocals and multiple instrumental versions (La la la, Sax, base). The boys need to step up and finalize it. Relatively little effort for as song that they know that the fans already love.
O Bobby, I almost feit madly in love with you because of your smile around 8.23!🤩 We share the exact same love. For this song!😄 thanks man!
To be honest, I didn't really loved "White Sombrero" when the box set first came out. I thought the production was too schlageresque and cheesy and the long winded intro was off putting. The song grew on me since then, the vocals are too brillant to be ignored, and the lyrics are good (but not as hard hitting as in "Should I Laugh Or Cry"). Now I notice a quite similar theme in Kacey Musgraves "Space Cowboy". :)
"I Am The City" will be next it looks like.
Sensational, I loved watching this. Didn't realise the end of Cassandra borrowed from this. How lucky are we to have got it in full.
When I bought the ABBA 4-disc box set, "Thank You For The Music"......I was so pleased at how many surprises I would find.........the rare B-sides........and the ABBA Undeleted. ♫♫♫♫♪♪♪♪♪♪♪♪
First time I hear the song with isolated vocals made me cry. Thank you!
I absolutely love your videos ❤
Come pay tribute to the greatest group ever to grace us with their incredible musical talent. No one will ever be able to fill their shoes.
Dream World, please!!!
Herzlichen Dank...ganz phantastisch ❤️