icethesite - Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus news site

Comments

• Posted by Edward, May 25, 2009 11:12:

  It's on now!

  
  
• Posted by Gary Watt, May 25, 2009 11:14:

  Ooooh, just listening in the office. Radio at back of office and can only hear bits.....but what I can hear is fantastic!

  
  
• Posted by Gary Watt, May 25, 2009 11:15:

  Hello again
  
  Someone just asked me if that was ABBA!

  
  
• Posted by Pam, May 25, 2009 11:16:

  I love It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  
  
• Posted by Harry, May 25, 2009 11:18:

  Benny sure knows how to write a song!
  Wow, just great! And Helen is so wonderful, you juts gotta love her.
  Can't wait till I'll play it at full volume on my stereo once I hold the CD in my hands.
  Amazing, love it!

  
  
• Posted by Wazza, May 25, 2009 11:18:

  ummmm was really excited and looking forward to this however after the first listen i'm left feeling a little confused..its starts of folksy, have a bit of verse, a great chorus but it just doesnt seem to fit...maybe i need a second listen - but im just not that excited by it...maybe it will grow on me...but then again im one of the few Abba fans that can't stand Just Like That lol

  
  
• Posted by tropical, May 25, 2009 11:19:

  I just listened to it a couple of minutes ago and it was really great. Its really fantastic.

  
  
• Posted by Martin Bolron, May 25, 2009 11:19:

  No doubt about it, it's really great! And I hate to say it but it's true - so reminiscent of ABBA.
  
  That chorus is one hell of an 'ear-worm' or ohrwurm as I think the Germans would say and I'm sure it will be with me all week now.
  
  Benny, thanks for a quite unexpected (when this album was first announced) and wonderful treat!

  
  
• Posted by Richard de Groot, May 25, 2009 11:19:

  It's like the old day's! Fantastic new song, a true classic!

  
  
• Posted by Mark, May 25, 2009 11:20:

  Totally by chance did I stumble upon the site, at precisely the right time so I was able to listen to it from Australia!
  It is INSTANTLY catchy. What a chorus. Very Benny with the folk influence, Helen's vocals are fantastic. Shorter than the supposed 5.08 but perhaps this was a radio edit. Very excited to get my hands on it.
  

  
  
• Posted by Neil Francis, May 25, 2009 11:21:

  Oh my GOD it's made me go cold and the hairs on my neck have stood up,is it just me or were you all imagining agnetha singing the verses and frida doing the harmonies, I'm not ashamed to say i shed a tear thanks ice you rock xxx

  
  
• Posted by Roberto, May 25, 2009 11:23:

  A masterpiece. Amazing. I was totally overwhelmed. And I am so thankful for that moment. A brillant song, wonderful tunes and Helen's voice is a gift.

  
  
• Posted by Wybe, May 25, 2009 11:23:

  Exciting to hear the old chaps still can work their magic in a pop song, and having Helen to sing it is a second best option... Can't wait to hear and see Benny and Helen in London soon!

  
  
• Posted by Steve Playford, May 25, 2009 11:25:

  I just heard it too. Brilliant, just like an Abba tune, except no little Swedish twangs! Cant wait to buy it.

  
  
• Posted by Rob, May 25, 2009 11:30:

  Fabulous,cannot wait for the album

  
  
• Posted by Terje L, May 25, 2009 11:37:

  First time I have ever heard a BBC2 radio show. (I'm living in Norway) It was worth waiting for. Listened to the channel 2 hours before it aired...Wonderful work again from Benny. I just love his melodies and arrangements. Really looking forward to hear him at Oland this summer. Thanks again to Ice for bringing all the news about Bjorn and Benny

  
  
• Posted by Edward, May 25, 2009 11:37:

  Listened to it a couple of times, cannot get it out of my head now! Very catchy, I love it and cannot wait to have it on cd.

  
  
• Posted by Kim D, May 25, 2009 11:38:

  I've never commented before on icethesite but I just have to now, after hearing the new track.
  
  Must say, I really enjoyed it and can't wait to hear it again - is someone frantically writing out the lyrics and uploading the audio to YouTube as I'm typing this?! I hope so!
  
  That whole Radio 2 experience was so like waiting for the first play of an ABBA song - it really took me back and was no less exciting.
  
  Bravo B&B!

  
  
• Posted by douglas, May 25, 2009 11:45:

  give it back! give it back! well no, i have a new, classic benny andersson melody in my head, and i'm keeping it, but i don't mind sharing it with the rest of the world.
  first reaction tells me it will become a favourite, great vocal from helen, and good production although the drums are a bit too prominent in the mix for me.
  the actual song is well constructed with a clever lyric and one of those benny andersson compositions that are trully memorable and still original. here's hoping it gets enough airplay in the uk for it to top the charts.

  
  
• Posted by Ice, May 25, 2009 11:47:

  Thanks to everyone that has posted their reaction here - it's fantastic to read such instant feedback not only from the UK but from further afield too.
  
  My reaction - love it!!!
  
  As Martin Bolton said above, it didn't seem as if anything like this would be on the cards when the first news of BAO's album in English was announced - so this track is one incredible bonus.

  
  
• Posted by Sara Russell, May 25, 2009 11:47:

  It's Gemini, Josefin, ABBA and BAO! rolled into one - I could hear bits of everything.
  
  It's probably a grower - I need to hear it again. Can't wait to see it performed live on 4th July. Helen will need a stranger's face to sing to in the crowd - any takers? On Radio 2 Zoe Ball said it would be their first live performance in the UK - Glasgow doesn't count then does it?! (or was that BAO! and this going to be BAB - a technicality!).
  
  Well done B&B ... don't you ever say to us you can't write pop music any more. You're composers, you're brilliant and you can do anything you set your mind to.
  
  (MORE!)

  
  
• Posted by Edward, May 25, 2009 11:50:

  Listened to it a couple of times, cannot get it out of my head now! Very catchy, I love it and cannot wait to have it on cd.

  
  
• Posted by bone, May 25, 2009 11:54:

  could anyone upload it ? I must hear this again

  
  
• Posted by Graeme Quinn, May 25, 2009 12:15:

  i missed it can anyone email me it or tell me where to listen to it at ?
  Graeme@quinn61.freeserve.co.uk

  
  
• Posted by Mike , May 25, 2009 12:28:

  Wonderful. Another Andersson/Ulvaeus gem. A real treat to hear it on its first play down here in Cape Town. As Sara says, its got a lot in it, plus the overall power ballad-Jim Steinman feel. It seems to fit well with both their 70s/80s sound and what they are doing now. I've heard it twice and its stuck already, a good sign.

  
  
• Posted by Kai, May 25, 2009 12:37:

  @Graeme - The programme on before it is already on BBC iPlayer and so, the Zoe Ball show should be on shortly - but not until it finshes in another half hour or so.
  
  @Sara - totally agree on the influences - a bit of everything. Plus a bit of CHESS på Svenska, if you ask me - something to do with that 'bell' keyboard sound.
  
  2 questions occurred - I wonder if working on Mamma Mia! The Movie re-awakened Benny's pop sensibilities?
  
  And will Tommy K be doing all those backing vocals when The Benny Andersson Band perform the song in London and in Sweden this summer? They are quite prominent and allow Helen to go 'off-melody' at the end, quite a good part of the song IMHO.

  
  
• Posted by Stefan , May 25, 2009 13:03:

  It's a brilliant song and I was pretty excited to hear it in full. It probably was a radio edit though. Not only cause it was shorter than 5:08, but also the "heartstoppingly" lyrics the "popmasters" were talking about in their review were missing. So the sparse piano-part (probably the chorus-melody since the words seem to fit exactly) must have been cut out in this version. So there's still a part we haven't heard yet...! Helen's vocal performance is beautiful with remarkable ad-lips at the end! I'm just not so keen on the flute sound during the intro and inbetween the verse. Sounds a bit like in "Mio min Mio" or parts from "Godnattvisa" from BAO3..Otherwise it's typically Benny and it fits the folkier rest of the album to come! Now back to business - humming the tune for the rest of the day..

  
  
• Posted by Jason Swan, May 25, 2009 13:03:

  BBC shows are available for On-Demand listening for a few days after broadcast, if you missed it, or want to hear it again.
  
  I loved it, the flutes bring our the folksiness we love Benny for, and did anyone else notice the great booming guitar work in the second verse?
  
  The chorus seemed a bit Steps-ish to me, but then I can't get it out of my head. Thanks B&B, never stop writing. And thanks Ice for all the great news.
  
  See everyone on the Heath and in New York!

  
  
• Posted by Ian, May 25, 2009 13:13:

  Unfortunately those BBC on demand things generally aren't available outside the UK. And it seeims that right now this show isn't available at all.
  
  I'm surprised it's not on YouTube already!

  
  
• Posted by Ice, May 25, 2009 13:20:

  I've added the link to the main article above, for those able to access the BBC's iPlayer. At time of writing it states 'Coming soon'.

  
  
• Posted by Dave Fleming, May 25, 2009 13:38:

  The BBC iPlayer is available right now - click on the link at the top of this webpage and move the whatever-it's-called to 1 hour 8 minutes and you'll be at the start of the song. Who want's to bet this goes straight to number one???

  
  
• Posted by Ian, May 25, 2009 13:44:

  Surprise surprise, iPlayer is actually working outside the UK! Good news. Listening now.

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 13:59:

  Isn't it a bit irritating that the melody seems to skip a lot of harmonies (it might be a first listen phenomenon though)? I also believe the production could be cleaner and they could have more piano. I also think the flutes sound a bit artificial.
  
  It should be reproduced and rerecorded before the release!
  
  Thanks for the site by the way! Love UK!

  
  
• Posted by Sean Mallon, May 25, 2009 14:02:

  I TOTALLY LOVE IT!!!!!!! It gave me a shiver right up and down my spine on first listen... Put it onto a CD and I just can't stop playing it now... I know I shouldn't, but, I was imagining Frida & Agnetha doing the vocals and thinking what the video would look like if this was the new ABBA single!!!!!
  
  And Zoe Ball read my name out on air too!!!!! :o)

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 14:05:

  Ok! I don't want to sound like a winer. It's great that BB have released their first pop song in a long while.
  
  I think Benny would stand to gain a lot though by meeting some younger songwriting stars (such as ryan tedder or tysper, mack,grizzly) and listening to their stuff. His "jagged little pill" mention is not an evidence of him keeping up to modern pop sound - perhaps contrary to his own belief.
  
  He should bring his own sense of melody and the 40s generation sense of melodic quality (beatles,elton john, andrew lloywd webber etc.) but he should try to experiment a bit more and think outside of his comfort zone. Perhaps much to ask for a 60 year old though?
  
  

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 14:15:

  Ok to be precise regarding the melody. I wan't Helen to go up on "heart" when she sings the line "story of a heart". As it is now it's a bit anticlimatic and winy rather than heartbreaking.
  
  Though it will certainly bee a grower and it's not a bad song. It also definetely stands out stylewise from other songs on the charts and with a great live singer.
  
  

  
  
• Posted by Kai, May 25, 2009 14:20:

  @swedish listener Benny said he liked Alanis Morisette's Jagged Little Pill but come on, The Benny Andersson Band are not going to be at the cutting edge of a modern pop sound - what would be the point?
  
  They'd completely alienate the majority of their fanbase, who want to roll up at Gripsholm Castle or wherever and polka, waltz or foxtrot the night away!

  
  
• Posted by Graeme Quinn, May 25, 2009 14:29:

  Loved it

  
  
• Posted by Paul, May 25, 2009 15:40:

  Hmmm... Sorry, not impressed. It's not very original-sounding. Other songs by Helen on the BAO albums are much stronger, both musically and melodically.
  
  One listen and I'm bored and disappointed. Having heard his recent songs of the last 9 years or so, I know for a fact that Benny is capable of much better than this!
  
  "Story of a Heart" sounds to me both too derivative of 1980s-style songs, and also quite flat.
  
  When I know what Benny can write - and he's written quite a few masterpieces in the last 14 years (including a dozen great songs for the musical "Kristina")- I'm almost ashamed of "Story of a Heart". It is so ordinary, so vanilla. Ugh!
  
  Sorry, but Benny is much greater than this forgettable tripe.
  
  Paul

  
  
• Posted by Kian, May 25, 2009 16:08:

  Well I for one loved it, love the melody, the production and the lyric. Thanks B&B.

  
  
• Posted by Damien, May 25, 2009 16:19:

  I loved it, but it is quite dated sounding. Not that that matters to me. Very nice melody, love the backing vocals and ad libs at end. I think I could hear where the "quiet" middle bit should be - can't wait to hear full version.
  
  As always, Ice, you outdo yourself with bringing us the news xx

  
  
• Posted by Kian, May 25, 2009 16:27:

  Well I for one loved it, love the melody, the production and the lyric. Thanks B&B.

  
  
• Posted by Mark, May 25, 2009 16:42:

  To add to everyone's comments I totally love it - hooked completely and hoping for a number 1 from this.
  
  Ice, thanks so much for the news - a bumper year
  
  Markxx

  
  
• Posted by marco dirven, May 25, 2009 17:43:

  Considering the fact that is a popsong, or perhaps more a kind of folkpopsong, I think this one of the best things Benny Andersson has done in recent years. The first 10 seconds alone are worth a nobel prize.
  I don't what it is, but somehow, whether it's a pop, folk, classical or show song, Benny's songs always seem take hold of me.
  I have some problems with understanding the lyrics. Can someone help me and post the lyric?
  I think that in the end, this song will enter my personal Benny top 10.
  

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 17:56:

  Ok, I have now heard it with the introduction as well and it does become a better song - hardly surpring - one of ABBAs strenghts was after all to always put several melodies in their songs.
  
  Though i still don't like the sound of the background instruments and I miss some piano and violins. Slliding piano scales would work well in this song though not exactly a modern trick. They could though make the march beat a bit less monotonous and dominating.
  
  Perhaps some fans could start a collection to give Benny some better instrument samples? :)

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 17:59:

  The intro is great and epic!
  
  Perhaps the refrain feels a bit rushed and impatient.

  
  
• Posted by Stephen, May 25, 2009 18:09:

  Classic big ballad stomper ! Easily an ABBA track/classic hit ! Sara love your comment about BAO in Glasgow! It would seem not to count it's Scotland! My problem pehaps! NOT!!!

  
  
• Posted by mark, May 25, 2009 18:15:

  nice song but lets be honest..
  NO ABBA-song-Quality
  
  

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 18:15:

  "Story of a heart" - doesn't it sound like the title of a musical? Perhaps one that would focus on the heart of Amanda Seyfried - a sequel to Mamma Mia - placed in London where Amanda meets three guys and has to pick one?

  
  
• Posted by Andromeda, May 25, 2009 18:21:

  For goodness' sake, the song is fantastic! I can't believe some of the comments I'm reading on here, although I guess I shouldn't be too surprised. Truly, some people are never happy. No wonder they never want to reform, never want to release anything else as ABBA! Can you imagine the criticism that would ensue?
  
  Just enjoy "Story Of A Heart" for what it is -- another melodious, well-crafted piece of music. We should be grateful that we have some new music to look forward to from Benny and Björn instead of tearing it apart!

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 18:36:

  My critique which I substantially modified after having heard the intro - did not come from a conservative point of view.
  
  I want them to experiment more. I'm also happy that the fantastic Helen Sjöholm will be introduced to an international audience and I feel that she adds a different quality than the ABBA girls though equally tender, modest and feminine (both positive and negative as it might keep them in roughly the same tracks but it's a great one).
  
  I also think the songs are the most important thing and as I said above I wouldn't mind if Mamma Mia 2 - titled Story of a heart - was largely or completely based on the future benny andersson band songs.
  

  
  
• Posted by Thomas, May 25, 2009 18:46:

  Thanks for the link but please could someone tell after what time the song was played ? Thanks

  
  
• Posted by Alexander, May 25, 2009 18:48:

  I suggest stop comparing everything with ABBA, that's nothing B&B would certainly appreciate. Stop thinking about something stupid like Mamma Mia 2 based on BAO songs or the like, it's even as stupid as wanting ABBA reunited. Be happy to have another exciting song, though different to the rest of BAO songs yet familiar like old ABBA stuff. What's the point? B&B do timeless music, why should it sound as contemporary 2009 pop music? And as far as their experimental side is concerned - they have tried out so many things even Kristina was a huge experiment they had never dared before, wasn't it? Be grateful that B&B have not disappeared yet. Enjoy every tune.

  
  
• Posted by Alexander, May 25, 2009 18:51:

  Meanwhile, you can listen to it on youtube.

  
  
• Posted by Stefan, May 25, 2009 19:00:

  Well, I was enthusiastic about a new B&B song... But honestly, my enthusiasm vanished with this awfully cheap intro of synth pipes. This song has good melodies and of course the fabulous Helen Sjöholm voice but it would deserve a better production. And it also doesn't fit into the BAO album anyway! What is the concept behind it?? It is not a new BAO song, it reminds more of Gemini/Josefin Nielson and has nothing in common with swedish folk tunes.
  
  Nor is it an actual pop song as it sounds very dated!
  
  @ Andromeda: Sorry, but it should be allowed to be critical and honest, that's why this space is kept as a review page. I'm not happy with this, but I'm happy with a lot of other B&B stuff ;-)
  
  Stefan
  

  
  
• Posted by Finnesse, May 25, 2009 19:15:

  Maybe its a good thing that some of you said you didnt like - i didnt have my hopes up and now I think its totally brilliant. its a bit like a lot of things - i can hear hooks from Just Like That (la la version), Someone Else's story, the winner takes it all, heaven and hell and all sorts, but i love love love it. more please benny. And to those of you that say that the production is busy - isn't that what we all liked about ABBA? Those whispy high harmonies in the chorus - who is he missing when he records those vocals.. I have to say though - this is the first pop vocalist he has worked with since ABBA that i've liked. I can't bear Karin Glemnark's thin voice and Josefin totally husky overacting. Go Helen...!

  
  
• Posted by Darren, May 25, 2009 19:25:

  Well I love the song,Helens vocals and everything about it.
  Zoe Ball said from the press release' the album contains "Swedish folk,big band and straight ahead pop".
  I'm looking forward to hearing the Swedish version.I also hope a story video is made to reflect the lyrics.
  The idea of 'Mamma Mia 2' doesn't thrill me.
  A movie of Kristina would be much better with Helen in the lead role of course.
  As to sounding dated, does it really sound dated compared to what people like Max Martin or Jorgen Eloffson write nowadays?.
  This song is nothing to do with ABBA.If there was an unreleased ABBA demo of this laying around everyone would say it's the best thing since 'just like that' and how dated is that?.
  I wonder what people would think if this was unreleased and BAO or BAB released '2nd best to none'instead?
  I can't imagine BAO doing a song like 'bleeding love' either................

  
  
• Posted by Ice, May 25, 2009 19:29:

  @Thomas - look next to the link for the time in the broadcast that the song was played.
  
  @Everyone - Please, please, please don't get personal with each other, everyone is entitled to their opinion but personal attacks on other commenters and indeed artists will be removed.
  
  icethesite's comment threads have always been a positive place for the educated and considered fan who is able to make constructive comment. Please let's keep it that way. Go for the ball, not the player!

  
  
• Posted by Jim Scott, May 25, 2009 19:44:

  Amazing song. Benny still has it when it comes to writing this type of song. I heard this on the radio on my way to a meeting, and ended up missing half of what the main speaker said as I was mentally going over the chorus. My wife will love it too. A must have for my ipod.

  
  
• Posted by Kathy, May 25, 2009 20:15:

  THE CORRECTED LYRIC apologies Kathy
  
  
  STORY OF A HEART
  
  
  Verse 1:
  
  It must have been him,
  Just a glimpse of a face in the crowd,
  That's all it takes,
  My heart is racing.
  
  I stand in a trance,
  As I stare at the back of a bus,
  Knowing there's no use denying,
  I can't stop thinking about us.
  
  CHORUS:
  The story of a heart
  The story all of it mine,
  Then you took it from me,
  Every glorious line.
  I was safe and warm,
  And now I'm out in the cold,
  And I know I shouldn't have told my story.
  
  Story of a heart,
  I laid myself open wide,
  Yet to read the pages,
  Where the ink hadn't dried,
  All emotions pent up inside, my story.
  
  Verse 2:
  
  I try to resist,
  But the images keep coming through,
  So many years,
  Still I'm defenceless.
  
  The house by the lake,
  His hands resting awhile on the oars,
  Speaking with quiet conviction,
  Carefully unlocking doors.
  
  CHORUS:
  The story of a heart,
  The story all of it mine,
  Then you took it from me,
  Every glorious line.
  I was safe and warm,
  And now I'm out in the cold,
  And I know I shouldn't have told my story.
  
  Story of a heart,
  I laid myself open wide,
  Yet to read the pages,
  Where the ink hadn't dried,
  All emotions pent up inside, my story.
  
  
  Did he see me,
  Or did I just imagine it all,
  Putting a face on a stranger,
  A face I find more and more hard to recall
  
  The story of a heart,
  I laid myself open wide,
  Yet to read the pages,
  Where the ink hadn't dried.
  Swept away and lost in love,
  What was I to do,
  I just had to read it to you, my story.
  
  The story of a heart,
  The story all of it mine,
  Then you took it from me,
  Every glorious line.
  I was safe and warm,
  And now I'm out in the cold,
  And I know I shouldn't have told my story.
  
  Story of a heart,
  I laid myself open wide,
  Yet to read the pages,
  Where the ink hadn't dried,
  All emotions pent up inside, my story.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  
• Posted by John, May 25, 2009 20:38:

  I think it's one of the weaker B&B songs from recent years. It has a lot in common with "Under Attack": starting off with promise and then being ruined by an annoying weak chorus.
  An OK song but a pity they chose this to launch themselves onto the international market.
  
  ... and I hate that line line about "the back of a bus". It sounds daft.

  
  
• Posted by Jim Scott, May 25, 2009 20:38:

  Amazing song. Benny still has it when it comes to writing this type of song. I heard this on the radio on my way to a meeting, and ended up missing half of what the main speaker said as I was mentally going over the chorus. My wife will love it too. A must have for my ipod.

  
  
• Posted by Alan, May 25, 2009 20:51:

  Having listened to it a few times now it certainly is a grower! For me, that was the same with many ABBA songs. It is very catchy and if Radio 2 and others add it to their playlist it could become massive. I personally am thrilled to have a new B&B pop song and hope they do more with Helen (or A&A). However, looking at the album tracklist I do agree that it doesn't really fit in with the other tracks and the general public who buy the cd on the strength of this track may be expecting more ABBA type songs.

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 25, 2009 21:00:

  OK, my last post for today! I apologize for posting a bit to many.
  
  They should definitely keep the first minute "intro" before the refrain in the radio edit - it's a big part of the song's soul. My impression changed completely when i heard the intro.
  
  After 2.30 or 3.0 minutes it also becomes a bit repetitive so fading there is not that bad.
  
  The repetitiveness could be leviated with such tools as more trumpets, falling piano scales, parallell melodies with flutes, energizing violins as well as more kinds of drums in the rhythm - though the flute sample should be huge in gigabytes or done accousticly - and that applies to the intro as well.
  
  This could turn the song from BB to A and a possible number 1!

  
  
• Posted by andrea, May 25, 2009 21:26:

  except for the pipe intro I'm totally in love with the song.. while I was listening it for the 64th time ( :-)) an insane thought has hit my mind.. what kind of reaction and feelings Frida and Agnetha had, when they first heard the song?? it's so ABBA sounding that it's impossible they had a neautral feeling... it's not the usual BAO song.. this is a melody that must mean something for them.. Sorry for sharing this silly thought but today has been such an unforgettable day for any ABBA longtime fan! I'm very curious to see teh reaction of the british market to this.
  ciao from milan

  
  
• Posted by Ian, May 25, 2009 21:28:

  I don't think it sounds like a contemporary pop song, nor does it sound like an ABBA song, or Gemini or Josefin Nilsson or Chess, but it certainly sounds like a Benny song.

  
  
• Posted by anne, May 25, 2009 21:31:

  Heard it in the car this am and have been playing it on you tube for the last hour! I too am not 100% about the flute sound but otherwise totally love it. B&B - never again say that pop songs are for younger men you two are just awesome.
  @ Kai, I cant wait to hear this live in July but now have this really weird image of TK doing those backing vocals dressed as "the girl with the golden hair" or something!
  But seriously who is going to do them. Does anyone know who is credited on the single/album?
  

  
  
• Posted by Vesna, May 25, 2009 21:44:

  I adore the flute intro.
  This song is going crescendo.
  Beautiful song. Thank you for still working for us, Benny and Bjorn.
  We can't imagine how it would sound if sung by Agnetha and Frida, because Helen take the song with her strong voice.They didn'nt have the same voices.
  Bye.
  

  
  
• Posted by Alan, May 25, 2009 21:51:

  I also like the flute intro. Today has been a fantastic day. Brought back lots of memories of hearing a new ABBA song for the first time and then saving up for the single! Thanks Benny and Bjorn!

  
  
• Posted by Gary Watt, May 25, 2009 21:57:

  Hi all
  
  I too love the flute intro, reminiscant of Mio My Mio. An absolutely fantastic song now after I have listened about 30 times. Looking forward to the official cd release. Off to listen again!

  
  
• Posted by Tricky Dicky, May 25, 2009 22:08:

  Amazing! It's beautiful and I can't get it out of my head. When she sings 'My heart is racing', it makes me feel all warm and nice inside! Thank you Benny and Bjorn!

  
  
• Posted by Kai, May 25, 2009 23:55:

  Amazing!!! I love it, I love it, I love it!!! Just great. Thank you Bjørn and Benny, you are still the best!!
  PS Har hørt låta 100 ganger i kveld, og den bare vokser og vokser. Nyyyyyydelig!!

  
  
• Posted by Vincent, May 26, 2009 03:58:

  I too was excited re the prospect of a new track.
  
  Love the lyrics. The intro is so-so.
  
  I really dislike the heavy plodding drum track. Sounds dated.
  
  Vocal very strong! Look forward to the longer version. I'd be interested to hear a more poppy version by some idol bimbo- it would be a hit then! Right now, not sure.

  
  
• Posted by Melodimen, May 26, 2009 06:27:

  Love it!

  
  
• Posted by Fiona McIntyre, May 26, 2009 07:24:

  Simply put...I enjoyed the song very much.

  
  
• Posted by Elin, May 26, 2009 09:16:

  It improves for every time I listen to it. There is no better combination than Benny and Helen. Love it.

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, May 26, 2009 09:35:

  Ok, how many of us actually got a good night's sleep last night?!
  
  Truly great songs need time to 'embed' and it has certainly done that with me! It is utterly beautiful. Spinechills, goosebumps, butterflies, a feeling of great to be alive and to have the wonderful gift of being able to hear and to be able to appreciate the works from these masters.
  
  BAO (or BAB) play a great range of music and wouldn't it be great if there was space on each future album for just one or two 'pop' tracks like this? With the superb melodies and pure joy of a band enjoying themselves playing Benny's music, wouldn't that be heaven?
  
  The Story is by no means over:
  
  Yet to read the pages,
  Where the ink hadn't dried.
  
  

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, May 26, 2009 09:44:

  My only dissapointment was in the song on the R2 airing being shorter than expected. I understand that 5 minutes is considered long for a radio song but surely another 40 secs or so would have been OK? Or maybe, it's that they have to keep 'something in reserve for the album', especially these days with copying is so easy, witness the track already on youtube!
  
  I think the 'missing bit' will come about 3 mins 5 secs, right after 'A face I find more and more hard to recall'. It would give us a classic B&B heart-stopping slow section between choruses.
  
  How can we confirm that what we have heard is actually a 'radio edit' and does anyone know if we are likely to hear the full version on the radio before release?
  
  Also, 6 weeks before album release seems like a long time. I guess the 'single' will be out way before that, maybe in about 3 weeks time? I am just guessing!
  
  Anyway, once again, well done the lads and the BAB for a great song!

  
  
• Posted by Carla, May 26, 2009 11:15:

  I Love the Song!
  Thank you for the Music, Benny and Bjorn.
  Great voice Helen.
  Amazing, amazing, amazing!
  Agnetha and Frida, we miss you!

  
  
• Posted by Col, May 26, 2009 13:51:

  Can I add another angle here. Briefly, at the moment my life is pretty sh*t. Work problems, business failing, my dad in hospital. And over last couple of weeks getting lower. But then, first I get 2nd best to none, and now this. And just as Abba used to do, it brings me up and out of the depression and things seem brighter. (sad song or not)If only they could bottle this. And if only B&B realised what effect their, and Abbas wonderful music had, and could have on people then perhaps we could get more. I bet there's more of you out there know what I mean than anyone could possibly realise.

  
  
• Posted by narvikekero, May 26, 2009 15:13:

  Yes!!! a very nice song.
  Not ABBA sound at all, but it remainds me a lot Gemini´s sound. Benny and Bjorn are still there, and hope they give us more and more, they can do it, all the talent, all that magic, they sitll got them.
  What a nice day is today!

  
  
• Posted by narvikekero, May 26, 2009 15:21:

  Hey Col!!
  If I tell you about my life both would cry together, but no, no time for crying specially ´cos we are still alive and strong to fight against the bad time, moreover we still have a lot of Benny and Bjorn´s music to listen to, so get up and go on, the sun will shine again don´t forget.

  
  
• Posted by Finnesse, May 26, 2009 16:58:

  I'm not sure they realise the real power of their music. How could they, possibly? Even after a few plays yesterday I sneaked away for another listen with headphones on and found myself sobbing with sheer joy within seconds of it starting. Pure heaven.

  
  
• Posted by Alan, May 26, 2009 17:41:

  I agree totally with you, Col and I wish you all the best. The music of ABBA has in the past, and still does lift my spirits in times of sorrow and heartache.

  
  
• Posted by Waldo, May 26, 2009 18:19:

  I adore it!
  
  It's classic Benny and Bjorn and without a doubt, if this was a new ABBA single in would be number one.
  
  Infact these two new songs (Story Of A Heart and 2nd Best To None) would be perfect A and non-album track B sides for a new ABBA single!
  
  I started the following thread on the Radio 2 message board, but so gar there's only been one reply. May be some of you guys would like to leave a comment, which might help to get the track included on the Radio 2 playlist propper:
  
  http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/mbradio2/F4387184?thread=6608047
  
  (You do have to register to leave comments, by the way).

  
  
• Posted by John Kyffin, May 26, 2009 19:07:

  Brilliant ! Boys.
  I love it, want it, want the CD.The Charts are long overdue for a dose of Quality Music that Lasts and Lasts instead of the throw-a-way stuff that's crammed down our ears. I'm Elated your back and up to your old tricks once more, you are our long lost friends back for good and were here to greet you and by the other posts THERE IS ONE BIG WELCOME. WELCOME HOME BOYS WE LOVE YOU
  On behalf of myself,your fans and the World OMG I'm a happy chappy today

  
  
• Posted by Tony, May 27, 2009 05:30:

  I like some of the hooks and flourishes, and it does sound good (Helen, like Frida and Agnetha, has such a magnificent and individual voice) but otherwise, I must admit that this song doesn't sound too original. I find that Benny sounds most original these days when he comes up with one of his classical and folk gems. Björn's lyrics are very good, however, I'd like to see Björn coming up with more of the fantastic cutting and quirky lyrics that he was creating in latter ABBA days instead of just another sad-lost-love-song lyrics. He's a fantastic wordsmith... I'd love to seem him get back to widening his theme repertoire, because he is very imaginative (...a hint to Björn if he's reading this ;o) Anyway, I'm still really looking forward getting a copy of this album, especially to hear 'You Are My Man' and 'Our Last Dance'. I wish our flaccid radio stations in Australia would play the BAO catalogue... unfortunately most of our radio stations seem to suffer the lemming-syndrome (following each other, only playing predictable music, nothing new or different). Maybe when this new album comes out, ABC Classic FM may listen in, especially as it may introduce that radio station to Benny's/BAO's/Benny-&-Björn's classical and folk musics (fingers crossed). Cheers.

  
  
• Posted by Elin, May 27, 2009 08:10:

  I took out the chords for the song on my guitar, tought I'd share them. (I hope they are correct!)
  The song is really a half note above the chords, in F#, so if you wanna play to the music you can use a capodaster.
  
  Verse: F Am Bb Gm C
  F Am Bb Gm Bb C
  
  Chorus: F C/E
  Dm C Gm Bb C
  F C/E
  Dm Bb Gm C
  
  Stick: Bb Am Gm Am Bb C

  
  
• Posted by Leepy, May 27, 2009 08:14:

  Hey Col, I know exactly what you mean. I'm famous for having 'Abba days' when I'm down -from Ring Ring to The Visitors. Works a treat for me!

  
  
• Posted by swedish listener, May 27, 2009 10:01:

  Ok appearently they played the intro and the first verse in the radio edit (with intro i meant intro and verse) . I must have managed to jump a bit while hearing it there once (stupid me) before tuning in to the tube later to hear it more times.
  
  It will be interesting to "see" the end of what might be a classic bridge!
  

  
  
• Posted by Franz , May 27, 2009 12:54:

  don´t know how often I can say THANK YOU BENNY&BJÖRN
  you are the greatest songwriters this days. it´s always a magical moment when I hear songs like this one.
  you are brilliant - of course I wish to hear Agnetha (which one should sing the lead vocal) an Frida ( jumps into the chorus) - but Helen did a fantastic job.
  Can´t stop to hear that.
  Like a new ABBA single.
  I´m sooo happpyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  
  
• Posted by Phil, May 27, 2009 23:00:

  I can't make up my mind--it certainly ticks a lot of the B&B formula boxes (it is unshakeably lodged in my internal jukebox already), but I think that is what is so unsettling--it feels a little self-consciously Abba-ish, and that seems wrong somehow. Helen's voice is so extraordinary, but I don't think it is particularly suited to this type of song. And (just like Agnetha's singing on Under Attack)the cut glass pronunciation comes off a bit too Mary Poppins to be contemporary. I would love it to be a hit record but I don't see where it will get exposure (other than Radio 2) unless Benny lines up some promotion (Johnathon Ross on Friday before the concert maybe).

  
  
• Posted by duncan powell, May 28, 2009 01:11:

  Gosh will anybody read me down here....having heard the full version (go to www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/radio...search; zoe ball. mon 25th. move time-scale to 1hr 8mins..EASY!!)...sounds VERY Josefin Nilsson-esque...could of come from her "Shapes" album...having said this, lovely track...would of benifited from the vocals of Agnetha and Anni-Frid....but alas.

  
  
• Posted by Elmar, May 28, 2009 07:26:

  "... full track for those who caught the world exclusive first play on the BBC's Radio 2 ..."
  
  This is only Radio edit 4:42.
  On single seen that original must be 5:08.
  

  
  
• Posted by Lee Davis, May 28, 2009 13:34:

  Hmn, thinks 'BAB on Jonathan Ross doing a live perfomance of this song'. What a wonderful thought. Anything is possible.
  
  Whilst I am thrilled with this song and think it has some of Bjorn's strongest lyrics on an English language song pop song, I do wonder quite what they are 'up to'. Abba will not be reforming and BAB should not, IMHO, try to sound like them. However, a lot of the 'this sounds like abba' is, of course, just the fact that it is Benny's beautiful music.
  
  Even so, I too find it strangely unsettling. A bit like having 'heard a ghost'. The focus from Benny for years has been BAO and Kristina. Surely that is where we must expect the focus to continue?
  
  It could just be that this song is simply a gift to us fans, and a way to bring the world's attention to Helen.
  
  How and why it came about we may not yet know but the song is still wonderful, firmly planted in my brain, and I am loving it more and more - there's a lot more going on in that chorus than there seems at first.
  
  "How I treasure every minute, being part of, being in it, with the urge to move on."

  
  
• Posted by Phil, May 28, 2009 21:13:

  It's as though 25 years have just melted away... the same spine tingling chills that I used to get whenever a new ABBA song was released.
  
  Helen Sjoholm has a beautiful amazing voice, check out her performance of "Someone Else's Story" on YouTube.
  
  I can't wait for the album or the Hampstead Heath gig - you'll spot me, I'll be the one with tears in my eyes.
  
  Best wishes to all Abba, BAO/BAB & B&B fans out there.
  
  Phil

  
  
• Posted by Sarah, May 28, 2009 21:38:

  Love the song more and more every time I hear it - just one question about the lyrics though - are these the official lyrics or just some that somebody has written down listening to the song? Because I hear "LET YOU read the pages where the ink hadn't dried" as opposed to "YET TO". And it makes more sense that way - does anyone agree?

  
  
• Posted by Gerard Hesen, Netherlands, May 28, 2009 22:18:

  I think you're right, sounds more plausible to me too... Then there's the phrase 'pent up emotions': pent-up emotions are restrained and held back, possibly to be dramatically released later; penned-up emotions are metaphorically corralled, possibly to escape later. So this could also be penned-up emotions, referring to 'the pages where the ink hadn't dried...'
  
  Anyway, brilliant lyrics!

  
  
• Posted by anne, May 28, 2009 22:21:

  @ Phil, re 4th July, I cant boast to foxtrot, waltz or polka but even if I could I cant imagine being able to focus on anything other than this amazing gift from B&B and of course Helens incredible voice. See you on the Heath.

  
  
• Posted by anne, May 28, 2009 23:05:

  I eat my words!
  Having listened to this over and over on youtube I cant help but now love that flute/pipes intro. B&B I dont know what came over me that I should ever have doubted your judgement. Although it initially seemed "off centre" in terms of modern pop music I now get how it works in the overall scheme of the piece. Slightly out there off the wall and totally fantastically brilliantly you x

  
  
• Posted by Marco, May 29, 2009 07:34:

  First my heart goes out to those having rough times...and how abba or a new b&b composition can lift their spirits ...oh the power of music!!! I really like the song to, but I've mentioned this before...seems bit over produced ...in terms of making out the lyrics even when I've seen them written out...and for me this song the lyrics seem important say unlike...hmmm"My humps my lady ..humps" (such a classic song that is by Black eyed peas...hA! Yeah unfortunately the lyrics are all too clear on THAT song!! I just wish I could say the same about this one...at one moment ...fine ..and then not clear Am I the only one here ...am I deaf..HA! I think about "shou;ld I laugh or cry "or "summmer night city ".also..which I like but sometimes unclear with the lyrics...Please someone let me know if you've had the same experience..cheers all! P.S. could that even affect the success of the song for the average (non fan listener???)

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, May 29, 2009 09:38:

  I agree, "Let you read the pages" does make more sense. And 'penned-up emotions', that would be another great line!
  
  As for clarity, it sounds good to me but I guess all we have at the moment is a youtube copy of a radio transmission. Personally, I expect the CD version to sound clearer? The previous BAO recordings have been crystal clear ...

  
  
• Posted by John in Oslo, May 29, 2009 20:36:

  After two days of listening -and a true disciple of Mr Andersson this is- -I am very pleased! My first comment is that this is not really a BAO track; it's more a Benny & Björn song (is that really the Band playing there?). I'm back to Josefin Nilsson and Gemini at their best; Björn has written a good set of lyrics -and Helen gives a stellar performance as always. But the comparison to an ABBA recording... ...no- -most ABBA tracks also have that extra melody line: the epic piano intro or bridge ('Money...','SOS','Mamma Mia', 'The Winner...' etc) or arrangement as a wall of sound ('Fernando','Super Trouper','That's Me') which is just as recognizable as the vocals (the 'flute' in 'Gimme!...'). This song is only just there; apart from the flute which is mentioned, the backing track is quite plain; nice patterns of images, but no standout solo (the synth intro on 'Lay All Your Love...'). BAO's 'Det Är Vi Endå' three years ago has that whistling tune I'm talking about; 'Mio My Mio' has it, but not this one. But again: Björn delivers classic lyrics with again those images passing by: the protagonist watching 'him' from the back of a bus, remembering the boat trip on the lake etc. Josefin also took the bus, but always watched 'him' get off; Molokov saw a glimps of Natacha as the train left, Björn took the early train to another town, and Agnetha and Nina rode the train to work every morning,(Agnetha also took it to Korpilombolo, but that's another story). I admire Björn for his ability to write images (Slipping Through my Fingers, Beatrice, Fernando, Cassandra, Soldiers, Our Last Summer, Vår Sista Dans, Fait Accompli, Have Mercy, Crackin' Up, I Wonder, Cecilia, Du Frälste Mig I Sista Stund...) -and Benny for his music, painting those images in true chords of colors.
  I digress: looking forward to the swedish version, might have to travel to London, and hope for BAO to play at Skansen again this year! Take care, all!
  John in sunny Oslo!

  
  
• Posted by John in Oslo, May 29, 2009 21:05:

  Oh, and Helen also takes the train: all the way to the end station out there in the 'förskingringen' (only to meet a woman with a child in her arms, but that is another story, mamma mia!)
  Methinks in Björns Universe, trains are a methaphore for something... :)

  
  
• Posted by Napoleon, May 29, 2009 23:42:

  I believe this recording should make us ABBA fans objective and remind us not to undermine the influence that A&A had on B&B musically when recording, as has been insinuated in several books, obviously something that Helen S. cannot do. This is most probably because Benny has reached such a status of recognition that his musical decisions and compositions today are undisputed, whereas in the past the 4 of them were in it. Had Song of a Heart been recorded for ABBA it would have been MUCH better, sure, due to slight contributions from the girls.Although Helen vocally has great power and lovely tones, I feel she transmits very little here, and the backing track doesn't help at all. But the worst thing is most definitely the drum beat, that awful marching rhythm, which kills any pop song, makes it totally unswayable, undanceable. Of course, BAO, or BAB are no pop band, but they're trying to dip into it here it seems, to get to the mass market, but not properly.
  Having said all that, the melody is great, catchy, and the lyrics are captivating are transmitting. Had it all been given a touch of the Rival song, Second Best to None, not too much, not too poppy, just a little, Story of s Heart would stand out.

  
  
• Posted by Colin, May 30, 2009 13:23:

  
  So, as Kylie Minogue is an ABBA Fan - why
  not give HER the Song? I too think that Helen's
  voice is too 'theatrical/stage musical' in style
  for the Song - but, Kylie's isn't. She CAN Sing
  Pop Songs.....In the UK, (for example), 'Story
  Of A Heart' may well struggle for Air Play. Radio
  One simply will not play music by vocalists who
  sound like Helen. No more than they would play
  Doris Day, Carpenters, or Barbra Streisand old
  hits.....Radio 2 WILL play 'Story Of A Heart',
  but, it will struggle to make much impact in
  the UK Air Play Charts. I can see many Radio
  Stations refusing to play it. If it had been
  ABBA's 'Come Back' Single, it would have easily
  been a No.1, as the UK Media would have given
  it huge attention - and it would not matter at
  all. how many Radio Stations ignored it - it
  would sell itself, if it were by ABBA.

  
  
• Posted by marco, May 30, 2009 15:03:

  ...regarding last comment...You maybe right I mean just because all us fans like it love it or whatever...and the resurgence of abba since mamma mia...doesn't mean the general public ...is going to lap it up...if at all! I would love it to make some sort of an impact ...if only to reintroduce them back into the spotlight! I also hope everything I say is wrong..ha! ..ha! AND that it's massive..ha! I guess my boring analytical side comes out to much sometimes..ha! Cheers all!!!

  
  
• Posted by Kai, May 30, 2009 15:54:

  The purpose of Story Of A Heart must be to help promote The Benny Andersson Band's album and live appearance in London. It is not to be some stratospheric chart-topper!
  
  Can you imagine the bandstand in Hampstead Heath with only 500 people there? It would look like the queue for ice creams!
  
  It's a big ask to make that space look well attended - Benny knows this, which is, I'm sure why he even mentioned the concert at the end of the Mamma Mia! 10th Anniversary show (he probably also knew that part would wind up on YouTube).
  
  It's also a marvelous opportunity to help get Helen's voice/name known before the Kristina concerts.
  
  I think what must be remembered is that Story Of A Heart is not indicative of BAO's stuff, nor is it indicative of Kristina but it is damn good promotion without setting too many false expectations.

  
  
• Posted by Martin Bolton, May 30, 2009 16:02:

  @Kai - couldn't have put it better myself. Benny and Björn have done the chart-topping thing - and more often than Kylie.
  
  It should be obvious that their aims now lay elsewhere.
  
  I loved your comment about the queue for ice creams...I'd never thought about that before but yeah, WE know BAO and WE know Helen and Tommy but there's still a lot of space to fill around that bandstand!

  
  
• Posted by Colin, May 30, 2009 21:46:

  
  Marco - no where in my Post did I suggest that
  the 'General Public' would not think that 'Story
  Of a Heart' is terrific. I think that people who
  long for 'Pure Pop Music' will love it - and
  there are many such people. I was, however,
  suggesting that many UK DJ's, & Radio Station
  Managers, may refuse to play it - on the grounds
  that Helen's voice is rather 'Middle Of The
  Road' - and that they no longer play 'Pure Pop'.
  
  Kai - in 1984, 'One Night In Bangkok' was a
  Global No.1, & UK No.12 Hit. In 1985, 'I Know Him
  So Well' was No.1 for 4 Weeks, in the UK, & it
  outsold every ABBA Single here, except 'Dancing
  Queen'. (Over 800,000 UK Sales)
  Both of those Songs got attention for 2 reasons
  - they had ABBA connections, (Benny & Bjorn), &
  the 2 Guys also went on TV & Radio, to actually
  promote 'Chess' etc.
  
  I don't think that 'Story Of A Heart' has been
  created to merely promote the July Concert, or
  to tell people about Helen. Like everything that
  Benny & Bjorn put effort into - it is meant to
  be a HIT.
  And, it is actually very risky for that
  Song, to be used to try to get more people to
  know about, & attend the July Concert. As you
  said, it is not typical of the Benny Andersson
  Band - at all - and many people who buy their
  Compilation CD, & go to the Concert, will
  actually be expecting MOST of their stuff to
  be Pop Music. So, there is a very good chance
  that a lot of them will be unable to get into
  the usual style of that Act, & they will feel
  that the Single has mislead them.
  
  We will see. Personally, I can like many types
  of Music - Pop to Jazz to Folk to Country - so
  the fact that 'Story Of A Heart' is not typical
  of the Benny Andersson Band - CD or Concert -
  does not bother me, at all. But, it may well
  bother a lot of other people - who are expecting
  ABBA-like Pop, Sung by other Artists.....
  
  Martin - I'm aware that Benny & Bjorn have,
  'done the chart topping thing'. However, you
  don't really think that it will NOT bother
  them if the Beny Andersson Band CD is only
  a minor Hit in the UK, (for example), or if
  'Kristina...' suffers the same fate?
  
  Remember, such a rebutal to their NEW Works
  would be a huge blow - for these reasons:,
  
  1) 'Mamma Mia!' is THE biggest money making
  Film ever in the UK.
  
  2) 'Gold' has just become only the 3rd Album
  - ever - to reach 4,600,000 Sales in the UK.
  
  3) ABBA have spent more Weeks at No.1 in the UK
  Singles Chart, (31), & Album Chart, (57), than
  any Act since The Beatles. Indeed, their 88
  Weeks, over all, are the 3rd most ever in the UK
  - beaten only by The Beatles & Elvis Presley.
  
  4) That means that 1), 2), & 3), relied a lot
  on Benny & Bjorn's Songs. Do, you really think that it would go down well with them, if nothing
  they write in 2009 etc., can even get Air Play
  in the UK, or other Countries? And, if such
  Works struggle for attention - because people
  cannot hear them on the Radio?
  
  Sorry, but I 100% believe that Benny & Bjorn
  write Songs to be successful - not for them to
  be snubbed by DJ's etc., who cannot write a
  note of Music.....
  
  I also think that Universal plan to Advertise
  & Promote the New Benny & Bjorn Music - I hear
  that a TV Advert has been prepared for the
  Benny Andersson Band CD, & even for 'Story Of
  A Heart' - we will see.....I hardly think
  that Universal would throw money at such projects
  if they were not wanting/expecting them to sell.
  
  They have their goals far higher than seeing
  how many people turn up at the July Concert!!!

  
  
• Posted by Gale, May 30, 2009 23:12:

  I can't say until I have heard the full song, but I have to express some disappointment with the radio edit.
  
  * To me the song is between the stools of BAO and ABBA - it's not like BAO stuff but neither is it so massively and intelligently produced as most ABBA songs - the thing that makes those many times better than they ever needed to be. I don't think this is - the Chorus is done unvaryingly and appears too often - compare the subtle changes every time the Chorus appears in "Second best to none". OK larger resources there, but the percussion is over everything here so little chance for small-group instrumental subtleties that BAO songs often have.
  
  * I think the vocal style would have suited Josefin Nilsson much better - the song sounds more like something from "Shapes" to me than anything else. I think Josefin would have done better with the screamy vocals where Helen sings over the top of the Chorus theme in its later appearances.
  
  Very likely to be successful as a pop single I would imagine, but not IMO one of B'B's finest on the basis of the Radio edit.
  
  
  

  
  
• Posted by Gary Watt, May 31, 2009 10:27:

  Hi all
  
  Quite a lot of positive and negative comments about the song. It's great to hear what everyone thinks, comparing to ABBA etc. but let's remember it's not ABBA but a B&B composition sung by Helen. End of story.
  
  She has done a great job and I, for one, love it to bits. I love the pipes, I love the drum beat, I love it all. Not for a long time I have gone to bed singing a tune in my head and when I wake up in the morning it is still there. What does that mean?
  
  Let's hope Story of a Heart gets a lot of airplay which propells it to the number 1 spot.
  
  Take care.
  
  Gary
  

  
  
• Posted by Gary Watt, May 31, 2009 11:57:

  Hello again
  
  Just popped in after an hour sunbathing in this great weather :o)
  
  Anyone know if there will be an official video for the track?
  
  Take care
  
  Gary
  

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, June 02, 2009 11:58:

  Does anyone know the release date for the Swedish single version of this, "Sommaren du fick"? I thought it was this week ...
  
  More importantly, how can we download the song from the UK? It is not on Sweden iTunes yet ...

  
  
• Posted by Heather, June 03, 2009 16:00:

  Just listened to Ken Bruce Radio 2 show and played Story of A Heart again (approx 11.10am for those who can listen again).
  
  This will be their record of the week next week (w/c 8th June), so it will be played every day at about 10.35am during Popmaster I think?
  
  This should mean that it will be on the Radio 2 playlist which will mean some airplay The playlist can be found on this link http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/music/playlist/.
  
  Keep up the fantastic work Ice.
  

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, June 04, 2009 09:09:

  Great news. I think the whole album is one that will be ideal for Radio 2, eg Terry Wogan etc.
  
  By the way, is Story of a Heart being released as a *single* in the UK? Just wondered if we could get our hands on the full version before the album comes out!

  
  
• Posted by Colin, June 04, 2009 13:31:

  
  The Radio 2 Playlist is decided upon by
  several people at Weekly meetings. So, even
  though Ken Bruce is having it as his 'Record
  Of The Week', it does not necessarily mean
  that it will end up on the Playlist.
  
  It depends how many others at the meetings
  think it deserves a place on the List.
  Some DJ's, & Managers, may dislike the Track.
  We will see. Westlife have had 14 No.1
  Singles in the UK, & only a few of them did well
  in the UK Playlist Charts - many DJ's refuse
  to play their Singles much.
  
  So, Playlists are not essential, for a Single
  to do well. I should imagine that both Benny
  & Bjorn would be shocked if the Song does not
  get on UK Playlists, though. In a way, it is a kind of a snub, to not be included. It is also
  disrespectful - after all their success as
  writers.
  
  After all, Take That get huge UK Airplay
  - with everything. Even their Hits that don't
  sell enough to reach the Top 10, are guaranteed a
  place in the Top 5 of the Airplay Chart. They
  get special treatment, whether their Singles
  are good or ordinary.
  
  You'd think that Benny & Bjorn's first UK Pop
  Single since Josefin Nilsson, would be shown
  some respect by DJ's etc.....
  
  

  
  
• Posted by Heather, June 04, 2009 20:11:

  Colin - I shall bow to your knowledge on playlists! Let's hope it gets the airplay it deserves.
  Record of the week played at 10.25 today so if you tune in from 10.20am onwards you should catch it!

  
  
• Posted by Bronx, June 06, 2009 09:34:

  Well, this song just goes round and round in my head. Just like the ABBA songs it has a very catchy chorus. My only sadnest is it isn't an ABBA song. After hearing this all I could think of is the two girls doing the vocals. Why oh why wont they work together one more time? Anyway still enjoying this track (it's on youtube to listen to in full).

  
  
• Posted by phil, June 06, 2009 10:42:

  Does anyone else think Helen sounds like Annie Lennox at times in the chorus on this recording?

  
  
• Posted by Rudy, June 07, 2009 16:57:

  2008: Mamma Mia première ... 4 ABBA members together for first time in over 2 decades.
  
  Early 2009: Frida & Agnetha hand in hand on stage at Award presentation.
  
  May 2009: 2 new popsongs by Benny & Björn: Story Of A Heart & 2nd Best To None.
  
  Are they preparing an ABBA reunion?

  
  
• Posted by Ice, June 07, 2009 17:04:

  @Rudy
  
  No.

  
  
• Posted by Al, June 07, 2009 20:01:

  Yes I can hear Annie Lennox. I picked up on this last week. More noticeable on the last Chorus as the background harmonies seem a long stronger. Especially "swept away and lost in love, what was I to do".
  
  Al x

  
  
• Posted by Bob Wright, June 08, 2009 04:32:

  The song is great - but it begs for an interpretation by Agnetha.

  
  
• Posted by Sapphie, June 11, 2009 10:32:

  The song has made the Radio 2 'A' playlist for next week (starting Saturday), and is the only 'new' song added to list 'A' for next week:
  
  http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/music/playlist/index.shtml
  
  Yay! Fantastic

  
  
• Posted by Heather, June 11, 2009 16:00:

  Great news & Radio 2 must like this as usually the songs work their way the playlist from C to A. It says we can look forward to it being played about 20 times next week......wonderful!
  
  

  
  
• Posted by anne, June 11, 2009 22:23:

  Fantastic news, but how do we go about getting local network radio to play it too? I have e-mailed and text in to a couple of the larger stations in my area but have had no response?

  
  
• Posted by Tony, June 14, 2009 11:42:

  'Story of a Heart' has all the wonderful qualities of Benny & Bjorn's song writing. And even if it doesn't strike a musical chord with everyone, I believe if it's good enough for Benny & Bjorn to let me hear it, well that's good enough for me. I'll be enjoying every note & lyric.
  

  
  
• Posted by Elek, August 26, 2009 03:45:

  I loved the song. Another beautiful tune from B&B. I'm an ABBA Fan since 1979 and this song remind me the style of ABBA songs and the beautiful compositions Benny and Bjorn made. Helen Sjoholm is a great singer. Thanks B&B and Helen and hope to hear more from them.

  
  
• Posted by Tony, September 05, 2009 19:50:

  Wow... 124 comments seems to be the largest amount so far for this website! I hope BAO/BAB end up releasing more goodies overseas, now that 'Story of a Heart' is available in other countries. 'Song From The Second Floor'/'Sånger från andra våningen' was on one of Australia's national radio stations (ABC Classic FM) the other morning, and it was magic to hear!

  
  
• Posted by Mark Keesling, November 07, 2009 14:26:

  This song is phenomenal!!! Helen does a great job, but I agree, it screams for Agnetha and Frida to sing it. No other singers have the right timbre to sell a song like the ladies of ABBA.