For decades, the partnership between Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson stood as one of the most iconic songwriting duos in music history. As the creative force behind ABBA’s timeless hits, their bond seemed unshakable — built on talent, trust, and a shared vision. But now, at the age of 80, Björn Ulvaeus has made a startling revelation that confirms what many have long quietly suspected: the relationship between the two wasn’t always as harmonious as it appeared.
In a recent interview with a Scandinavian music journal, Björn opened up like never before. He admitted that there were years of deep emotional and creative strain between him and Benny — tensions that remained hidden from the public for decades.
“There was a time,” Björn said carefully, “when we didn’t speak for months. Maybe even years. Not out of hatred — but out of exhaustion, and fear that we’d lost each other.”
The confession shocked fans, many of whom believed that, despite ABBA’s breakup, the Björn-Benny connection remained intact behind the scenes. But as Björn explained, the end of ABBA in the early 1980s came with personal fallout that deeply affected their dynamic.
“We were burned out,” he said. “Emotionally drained from the divorces, from the pressure, from constantly having to create something bigger and better. The bond we had through music began to feel like a weight.”
Björn revealed that, while they remained civil in public, the trust that once defined their friendship was fractured. Miscommunications over creative direction, business decisions, and even how to handle the legacy of ABBA caused a growing rift.
“I think people sensed it,” Björn acknowledged. “There were interviews we didn’t do together. Albums we didn’t promote side by side. And that wasn’t by accident. We were both retreating, quietly.”
The “horrifying” part, he explained, wasn’t scandal — it was the slow disintegration of something sacred.
“When you build something that changes the world, and then feel it start to slip away — not because of ego or betrayal, but simply time and fatigue — it’s terrifying.”
But this story isn’t without redemption. Björn confirmed that in the last decade, the two men have reconnected — not just professionally through ABBA: Voyage, but personally.
“We had to learn how to be friends again — without the pressure to perform. And we did.”
Today, Björn says their relationship is stronger than it has been in years. He calls Benny “a brother,” but not in the cliché sense — in the complicated, real, deeply human way.
“We survived something few people ever go through,” he said. “And we’re still here. Together.”
For fans, this revelation adds a layer of truth and humanity to the ABBA legacy. Behind the glitter and melodies was a story of two men who nearly lost each other — and then found their way back.