Oh joy, another anniversary, another excuse for the music industry to dust off the old cash cow and give it a good milking. In 2026, ABBA’s breakthrough album Arrival reaches its 50th anniversary, because apparently retirement is just a suggestion. To celebrate, Classic Pop Presents has released a special revised and updated edition, because who doesn’t need another ABBA-themed publication to add to their collection? This time around, they’re telling the whole ABBA story, from their early years pre-formation through their imperial phase and on to their latest album and sell-out London residency with ABBA Voyage. Because, you know, the world was just missing a comprehensive guide to ABBA’s history.
The ABBA Story: A Never-Ending Saga
The special edition of Classic Pop Presents is a treasure trove of ABBA goodness, with in-depth features on every studio album, including a brand new deep dive into the making of Arrival. Because, let’s be real, the world needs another behind-the-scenes look at the creation of “Dancing Queen”. The issue also covers the group’s world tours, ABBA: The Movie, and the musical-marvel-turned-Hollywood-hit, Mamma Mia!. It’s a veritable feast of ABBA-related content, enough to satiate even the most die-hard fan.
Erasure’s Andy Bell Weighs In
Also inside the issue, Erasure’s Andy Bell shares his thoughts on Erasure’s hit ABBA-esque EP, because who better to talk about ABBA than someone who has been inspired by their music? It’s a match made in heaven, or at the very least, a clever marketing ploy. The issue also takes a look at the band members’ solo careers post-ABBA, because nobody truly retires in this industry, they merely wait for the 40th anniversary edition. And, of course, no ABBA-themed publication would be complete without a visit to Stockholm’s ABBA: The Museum, where the flame of ABBA fandom burns bright.
The Tribute Bands Keep On Coming
The issue rounds out with a look at the many tribute bands and ABBA-centric acts who are keeping the flame burning on the live stage. It’s a testament to the enduring power of ABBA’s music, or perhaps just a sign that the world is running out of new ideas. Either way, it’s a fun ride, and the Top 40 tracks listed in the issue are sure to spark some lively debates among fans. And, as a special treat, you can also get the digital edition of this issue, because who needs physical media anymore? Or, if you’re feeling old-school, you can find your local UK stockist and pick up a physical copy, thereby supporting the dwindling number of brick-and-mortar music stores.
The Remaster Economy Remains Unbeaten
In the end, it’s all just another day in the music industry, where the remaster economy remains undefeated, and the notion of “limited edition” is just a distant memory. But hey, who’s complaining? The music fans get more ABBA, the industry gets more money, and the accountants get to crunch some exciting numbers. It’s a win-win-win, and who knows, maybe someday we’ll even get a 60th-anniversary edition of Arrival, complete with a brand new set of bonus tracks and a vinyl reissue. A vinyl pressing plant somewhere just burst into tears at the mere thought of it. Somewhere, a record label executive felt a disturbance in the royalties, and music historians are preparing fresh shelves for the box set. Nature is healing, and another deluxe edition has appeared, because that’s just how the music industry works. The farewell tour count has officially entered scientific notation, but that’s a story for another time.
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
⚖️ ENTER THE LEGALIZER
Think the government has no idea what it's doing? Put your case before the Federal Case Terminal and find out.
