Rediscovering Joy: Listen to “Just A Notion” by ABBA (2021)
In the vast, shimmering constellation of pop music history, few names evoke the same degree of nostalgic joy and melodic brilliance as ABBA. With their return in 2021 after a nearly four-decade hiatus, the Swedish quartet once again reminded the world why their music continues to stir the hearts of millions across generations. Among the highlights of their reunion album Voyage is the previously unreleased track, “Just A Notion”, a song that feels both warmly familiar and refreshingly spirited – as if it had been tucked away safely in time, only to emerge just when the world most needed its buoyant charm.
Originally recorded in 1978 during the sessions for their sixth studio album, Voulez-Vous, and then quietly shelved for decades, “Just A Notion” remained little more than a whispered curiosity among devoted fans. In a delightful twist, ABBA chose to revisit this long-dormant creation and breathe new life into it for their 2021 release. Retaining the original vocals recorded by Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad in their prime, the refreshed version overlays vibrant, modern instrumentation — a harmonious dance of past and present.
From the first few bars, “Just A Notion” shimmers with ABBA’s signature optimism. With its upbeat tempo, bright piano progressions, and joyful horn arrangements, the track captures a sense of galloping exuberance. There is a buoyancy here, a rhythmic pulse reminiscent of some of the band’s most effervescent work, yet it carries an intriguing contrast — a song forged in the glittery disco fire of the late ’70s now recontextualized in today’s more reflective age.
Lyrically, the song conveys a stirring sense of hopeful intuition — the heartfelt instinct that something beautiful is about to blossom. It may not offer philosophical depth, but its sincerity is its strength. In a world often weighed down by uncertainty and complexity, there’s something truly remarkable about a melody that dares to beam so brightly, and sentiments that wear their heart unabashedly on their sleeve.
The decision to restore “Just A Notion” is more than nostalgic indulgence. It acts as an emblem of resilience and creative continuity. Though decades have passed since ABBA last stood together in a studio, their ability to deliver music that is both timeless and invigorating is undiminished. This song is not merely a nod to the past; it’s a joyful celebration of enduring artistry, a bridge between eras, offering listeners a chance to experience a rare moment when yesterday’s dreams are fulfilled today — in full, vivid color.
For long-standing admirers and new listeners alike, “Just A Notion” is a gentle triumph — a musical delight that radiates warmth, optimism, and the comfort of familiar voices reborn into the present day.
Video
Watch the official video of ABBA – Just A Notion (2021) below: