Swedish pop legends ABBA to receive prestigious knighthood at royal ceremony
The iconic Swedish pop quartet ABBA, known for hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia,” is set to receive a prestigious knighthood known as the Order of the Vasa at a ceremony on May 31, 2024. The four members of ABBA – Agnetha Faltskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad – will be honored for their “very outstanding efforts in Swedish and international music life.”
ABBA shot to fame after winning the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest with their catchy tune “Waterloo,” and went on to become one of the most successful bands in music history, selling hundreds of millions of records worldwide. Their music has inspired generations and their stage musical “Mamma Mia!” has become a global sensation.
The Royal Order of Vasa, given in recognition of personal efforts for Sweden or Swedish interests, has been dormant for almost 50 years but was reactivated in late 2022. The ABBA members were nominated by the public and the Swedish government, and approved by King Carl XVI Gustaf.
The ceremony will take place at the Royal Palace in Stockholm, where the band members will be honored alongside other exceptional Swedes, including Nobel Prize winners Anne L’Huillier and Svante Pääbo. This event marks a historic moment for ABBA and their enduring legacy in the world of music.
