About The Song
While Frida Lyngstad is globally recognized for her indelible contributions to the pop phenomenon ABBA, her solo career reveals a multifaceted artist with a distinctive vocal presence and a penchant for exploring diverse musical landscapes. Among her solo recordings, the captivating track “Here We’ll Stay,” released in April 1983, stands as a testament to her ability to deliver powerful and emotionally resonant performances beyond the ABBA sound. This particular song, appearing on her acclaimed 1982 album Something’s Going On which was notably produced by Phil Collins, showcases Frida’s vocal strength and her embrace of a more contemporary pop sensibility.
The songwriting for “Here We’ll Stay” is credited to the talented duo of Tony Colton and Jean Roussel. Their collaboration resulted in a composition that perfectly suits Frida’s vocal prowess and the overall sonic direction of the Something’s Going On album. The lyrics speak of unwavering commitment and finding a sense of belonging and permanence within a relationship. The sentiment expressed is one of steadfastness and a deep-seated desire to build a lasting future together, come what may. Phrases like “We won’t ever throw this love of ours away” encapsulate the central theme of enduring devotion and resilience against external pressures.
Frida’s vocal delivery in “Here We’ll Stay” is characterized by a compelling blend of strength and vulnerability. Her signature rich and emotive voice soars through the melody with conviction, conveying the unwavering nature of the promise made in the lyrics. There’s a sense of maturity and lived experience in her interpretation, lending an undeniable weight to the message of lasting love. Unlike the often layered harmonies of ABBA, here Frida’s solo voice takes center stage, allowing her to fully express the nuances of the song’s emotional core.
The production of “Here We’ll Stay,” helmed by Phil Collins, reflects the contemporary pop and rock sounds of the early 1980s. The arrangement features a driving rhythm section, characteristic of Collins’ own musical style, combined with lush synthesizers and a clear, uncluttered sonic palette. This production choice marked a distinct departure from ABBA’s signature sound, allowing Frida to explore a different musical avenue and showcase her versatility as an artist. The result is a song that feels both modern for its time and timeless in its emotional resonance.
The inclusion of Phil Collins as the producer and even the drummer on the Something’s Going On album was a significant step in Frida’s solo career. Collins’ global success and distinctive musical style brought a new dimension to Frida’s work, introducing her to a broader audience and showcasing her ability to thrive in a different musical context. “Here We’ll Stay” became one of the standout tracks from this successful collaboration, demonstrating the artistic synergy between these two accomplished musicians.
While perhaps not as ubiquitous as some of ABBA’s mega-hits, “Here We’ll Stay” remains a cherished gem in Frida’s solo discography. It exemplifies her capacity to deliver powerful and emotionally charged performances in a contemporary pop framework. The song’s themes of commitment and enduring love continue to resonate with listeners, and Frida’s compelling vocal delivery ensures that “Here We’ll Stay” remains a testament to her enduring artistry and her successful navigation of a solo career that both honored her past and embraced new sonic territories. It stands as a powerful declaration of lasting affection, delivered with the unmistakable voice and heartfelt sincerity of Frida.