You can dance, you can jive, and sing along to all the hit songs from ABBA in the sensational musical Mamma Mia! From “Dancing Queen” to “Waterloo,” experience the magic of ABBA’s timeless music woven into a heartwarming story.
If you’re an ABBA devotee or simply love feel-good musicals, Mamma Mia! is an absolute must-see. This dazzling stage production features over 20 of ABBA’s greatest hits, including beloved tracks like “I Have a Dream,” “Waterloo,” “Voulez-Vous,” and “The Winner Takes It All.” These Mama Mia Songs aren’t just thrown in; they are integral to the narrative, enhancing every emotion and plot twist.
Mamma Mia! immerses you in the story of Sophie Sheridan and her mother, Donna, as they navigate the complexities of family and love on a sun-drenched Greek island. As Sophie excitedly plans her wedding to Sky, she secretly invites three men from her mother’s past, any of whom could be her father. The arrival of these potential dads throws Donna’s life into delightful chaos and rekindles old flames.
Audiences worldwide, including generations in London’s West End, continue to be captivated by the infectious energy and timeless story of Mamma Mia! It’s more than just a musical; it’s a celebration of ABBA’s incredible songbook. Dive into the list of mama mia songs and prepare to become a dancing queen yourself.
Book your Mamma Mia! tickets on London Theatre today and experience the joy firsthand.
“Honey, Honey”: A Sweet Start
“Honey, Honey” is the perfect opening number for Mamma Mia!, setting the stage for youthful dreams and nostalgic storytelling. Released after ABBA’s Eurovision triumph with “Waterloo” in 1974, this upbeat track from their second album perfectly captures Sophie’s youthful excitement as she shares her mother’s diary secrets with her friends, offering a glimpse into Donna’s vibrant past.
“Money, Money, Money”: Donna’s Hard Knock Life
The original ABBA hit “Money, Money, Money” reflects a universal struggle, portraying a woman working tirelessly to make ends meet. This sentiment resonates deeply in Mamma Mia! as Donna belts out this powerful song while grappling with the financial strain of renovating her taverna. Both versions, original and musical, highlight a yearning for financial relief, though in the musical, Donna’s wish comes in the unexpected form of three former lovers arriving on her doorstep.
“Thank You for the Music”: A Song of Gratitude and Reunion
“Thank You for the Music,” a gem from ABBA’s fifth album, aptly named “The Album,” speaks volumes in Mamma Mia!. This heartwarming song is reprised as Sophie and her three potential fathers – Sam, Bill, and Harry – express their joy and wonder at their newfound connection, celebrating the unexpected reunion brought about by music and fate.
“Mamma Mia”: The Iconic Title Track
Arguably ABBA’s most recognizable song, “Mamma Mia!” (Italian for “my mum”) has become synonymous with the band and the musical itself. This globally loved hit, even covered by teen-pop sensation A-Teens to chart-topping success, perfectly encapsulates the whirlwind of emotions and unexpected situations Donna faces as her past catches up with her. The undeniable catchiness of “Mamma Mia!” continues to enchant audiences worldwide.
“Chiquitita”: Comfort and Girl Power
“Chiquitita,” meaning “little one” in Spanish, takes on a comforting and supportive role in Mamma Mia!. In a moment of Donna’s vulnerability, her best friends Rosie and Tanya perform this song, offering reassurance and reminding her of their enduring friendship and the power of their reunited trio, the Dynamos. Originally released in 1979 on the “Voulez-Vous” album, “Chiquitita” becomes an anthem of female solidarity in the musical.
“Dancing Queen”: Unleashing Inner Radiance
“Dancing Queen,” a worldwide disco phenomenon that topped charts in 16 countries in 1976, is an electrifying moment in Mamma Mia!. Tanya and Rosie use this empowering anthem to encourage Donna to rediscover her youthful spirit and confidence, reminding her that she’s still the “Dancing Queen.” The song’s infectious energy and message of timeless vibrancy make it a highlight of the musical.
“Lay All Your Love on Me”: Young Love and Commitment
Romance takes center stage with “Lay All Your Love on Me,” as Sophie and Sky express their deep feelings for each other. Sophie’s anxieties about how her newfound family situation might affect her relationship are met with Sky’s heartfelt reassurance and devotion. Originally released in 1980 and gaining popularity in nightclubs, this song beautifully captures the passionate and committed love between the young couple.
“Super Trouper”: Nostalgia and Reunion
“Super Trouper,” named after a powerful stage spotlight, becomes a nostalgic and celebratory moment in Mamma Mia!. Donna and the Dynamos reunite in their iconic costumes to perform this song, reminiscing about their past and embracing the joy of being back together. Interestingly, the song’s original Swedish title was “Blinka Lilla Stjärna,” meaning “twinkle twinkle little star.”
“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)”: Hen Party Hijinks
“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” injects some playful flirtation into Mamma Mia!. During Sophie’s hen party, the unexpected arrival of the three potential fathers is met with playful invitation from the women, sparking humorous and romantic possibilities. Originally released to promote ABBA’s world tour, this song was famously covered by Cher for the Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again film, further solidifying its place in the Mamma Mia! universe.
“The Name of the Game”: Secrets and Agreements
“The Name of the Game,” a Stevie Wonder-inspired track from ABBA’s “The Album,” underscores a pivotal moment of secrecy and understanding in Mamma Mia!. Sophie’s plea to Bill to keep quiet about their paternity discussion becomes “the name of the game,” highlighting the delicate and often unspoken agreements between characters as they navigate complex family dynamics.
“Voulez-Vous”: Act One Cliffhanger
“Voulez-Vous,” French for “Do you want?”, serves as a dramatic act one finale in Mamma Mia!. Amidst the escalating family confusion and emotional whirlwind, Sophie flees the party during this high-energy number, leaving the audience in suspense. The song’s driving beat and questioning title perfectly capture the uncertainty and anticipation at this crucial point in the story.
“Under Attack”: Dream Sequence and Fears
“Under Attack” plunges into a dreamlike sequence at the start of act two, visualizing Sophie’s anxieties. She envisions the comical and chaotic scenario of all three fathers walking her down the aisle simultaneously. This visually striking number, known for its unique costumes in the musical, is a stage highlight, although notably absent from the Mamma Mia! film adaptation.
“One of Us”: Mother-Daughter Discord
“One of Us” portrays a realistic mother-daughter conflict as Sophie and Donna clash, showcasing their relatable imperfections. Sam’s attempts to mediate are futile, underscored by the melancholic tone of “One of Us.” Released by ABBA in 1981, this song is said to reflect the personal divorces of Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, adding a layer of emotional depth to the scene.
“SOS”: Yearning for the Past
“SOS” expresses Sam and Donna’s shared longing to rewind time and recapture their past love, even as they remain unable to truly communicate in the present. This poignant and hopeful heartbreak anthem, released in 1975, a year after “Waterloo,” captures the bittersweet nature of their rekindled connection and past regrets.
“Does Your Mother Know”: Playful Flirtation and Age Gaps
“Does Your Mother Know” injects humor and playful flirtation into Mamma Mia!. Tanya, always attracting attention, finds herself pursued by young Pepper, a taverna staff member. Tanya’s witty rejection, delivered through this song, playfully addresses the age difference and societal expectations. Unusually for ABBA, this 1979 hit features a male lead vocal in parts.
“Knowing Me, Knowing You”: Misunderstandings and Reconciliation
“Knowing Me, Knowing You” explores the misunderstandings between Sophie and Sky, fueled by the arrival of the three fathers. Sam steps in to offer comfort and sing this song to Sophie, attempting to bridge the gap and reassure her. Originally titled “Ring It In” and “Number 1, Number 1,” this 1977 ABBA hit captures the complexities of relationships and the need for understanding.
“Our Last Summer”: Teenage Memories and Reflection
“Our Last Summer” offers a tender moment of reflection as Harry and Donna reminisce about their youthful summer romance. Inspired by Bjorn Ulvaeus’s own teenage experiences in Paris, this 1980 song evokes a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet memories. Intriguingly, keen listeners might detect a musical nod to the Chess song “Anthem” within “Our Last Summer.”
“Slipping Through My Fingers”: Parental Love and Time Passing
“Slipping Through My Fingers” is a deeply emotional song as Donna reflects on Sophie growing up so quickly, realizing her daughter is about to become a bride. This touching ballad captures a parent’s bittersweet feelings as they watch their child embark on a new chapter. While the original song expresses a mother’s regret about missed moments, the musical adaptation focuses on Donna’s overwhelming love and pride.
“The Winner Takes It All”: Heartbreak and Letting Go
“The Winner Takes It All” is Donna’s powerful and heart-wrenching solo, expressing her complex emotions about Sam and their past. As she confronts the possibility of what could have been, this iconic breakup song, considered one of the greatest of all time and a number one hit in multiple countries, allows Donna to express her vulnerability and strength.
“Take a Chance on Me”: Bold Romantic Pursuit
“Take a Chance on Me” injects humor and romantic boldness as Rosie pursues Bill, urging him to take a leap of faith in love. Rosie’s energetic and persistent pursuit, sung through this catchy 1978 hit with its distinctive “tck-a-ch” rhythm inspired by Bjorn Ulvaeus’s running pace, adds a lighthearted and optimistic touch to the romantic storylines.
“I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do”: Unexpected Wedding Bells
“I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do” signals a joyful and unexpected wedding in Mamma Mia!. In a delightful twist, it’s Donna and Sam who walk down the aisle to this celebratory song, marking a heartwarming and surprising romantic resolution.
“I Have a Dream”: New Beginnings and Hope
“I Have a Dream” concludes Mamma Mia! on a note of optimism and adventure as Sophie and Sky set off to travel the world, pursuing their dreams. This hopeful and uplifting ballad, originally featuring a Stockholm children’s choir in the 1979 release, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of new beginnings and limitless possibilities.
“Waterloo”: Energetic Encore and ABBA Celebration
“Waterloo,” ABBA’s Eurovision-winning breakthrough hit, serves as the grand finale and encore of Mamma Mia!. The entire cast, including the Dynamos and Sophie’s fathers in ABBA-esque costumes, erupt into this iconic song, inviting the audience to sing, dance, and celebrate the timeless music of ABBA.
How Many Mama Mia Songs Are There?
In total, Mamma Mia! features a phenomenal 23 ABBA songs. For anyone seeing Mamma Mia! on stage, you’re in for a treat filled with familiar and beloved ABBA classics. Get ready to sing along to all your favorite mama mia songs and experience the magic of ABBA brought to life on stage!
Book your Mamma Mia! tickets on London Theatre now and don’t miss out on this spectacular musical experience.
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