About The Song
ABBA, the Swedish pop sensation that took the world by storm in the 1970s, continued to evolve their sound with their eighth studio album, The Visitors. Released in 1981, this album marked a departure from the upbeat, disco-infused sound that had characterized their earlier work. The track “Two for the Price of One” is a prime example of this shift, offering a more mature and introspective exploration of relationships.
The title, “Two for the Price of One”, initially suggests a bargain or a deal, but the song delves deeper into the complexities of human relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love triangle, where two people are vying for the affections of the same person. The song’s narrator is caught in the middle, torn between loyalty and desire.
Musically, “Two for the Price of One” showcases ABBA’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends while still maintaining their distinctive sound. The song features a prominent synthesizer line, which gives it a slightly darker and more atmospheric feel than their earlier hits. The arrangement is also more complex, with layers of harmonies and subtle instrumental flourishes that create a rich and textured sound.
One of the most striking aspects of “Two for the Price of One” is its emotional depth. The song’s lyrics and melody combine to create a powerful sense of longing, confusion, and desire. The narrator’s internal struggle is palpable, making the listener empathize with their predicament. This emotional intensity is a hallmark of ABBA’s songwriting, and it is on full display in “Two for the Price of One”.
While “Two for the Price of One” may not be as upbeat and danceable as some of ABBA’s other hits, it is a testament to the group’s versatility and artistic growth. The song’s exploration of complex relationships and its more mature musical style make it a standout track in their discography.
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Lyric
He had what you might call a trivial occupation
He cleaned the platforms of the local railway station
With no romance in his life
Sometimes he wished he had a wife
He read the matrimonial advertising pages
The cries for help from different people, different ages
But they had nothing to say (Nothing to say)
At least not until the day (Till that day)
When something special he read
This is what it said[Chorus]
“If you dream of the girl for you
Then call us and get two for the price of one
We’re the answer if you feel blue
So call us and get two for the price of one
If you dream of the girl for you (If you are dreaming of someone that could be right for you)
Then call us and get two for the price of one (Why don’t you call us and you’ll get two)
We’re the answer if you feel blue (We may be the answers to your problem, a chance with we two)
So call us and get two for the price of one (Why don’t you call us and you’ll get two)”[Verse 2]
He called the number and a voice said, “Alice Whiting”
The voice was husky and it sounded quite exciting
He was amazed at his luck
The purest streak of gold he’d struck
He said, “I read your ad, it sounded rather thrilling
I think a meeting could be mutually fulfilling
Why don’t we meet for a chat (Meet for a chat)
The three of us in my flat? (In my flat)
I can’t forget what I read”
This is what it said“If you dream of the girl for you
Then call us and get two for the price of one
We’re the answer if you feel blue
So call us and get two for the price of one
If you dream of the girl for you (If you are dreaming of someone that could be right for you)
Then call us and get two for the price of one (Why don’t you call us and you’ll get two)
We’re the answer if you feel blue (We may be the answers to your problem, a chance with we two)
So call us and get two for the price of one (Why don’t you call us and you’ll get two)”[Outro]
She said, “I’m sure we must be perfect for each other
And if you doubt it, you’ll be certain when you meet my mother”