Who's behind the notes? Discover ABBA: The Legendary Swedish Pop Group That Conquered the World
"Chiquitita" is a song by the Swedish pop group ABBA, released in 1979 as the first single from their fourth studio album, "Voulez-Vous." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Meaning of "Chiquitita": The word "Chiquitita" is a Spanish term of endearment that roughly translates to "little one" or "young girl" in English. The song's lyrics convey a message of empathy and encouragement to a friend going through a tough time.
Inspiration: The inspiration for "Chiquitita" reportedly came from a visit to the Bahamas by ABBA member Björn Ulvaeus. During the trip, Ulvaeus and his then-wife Agnetha Fältskog were going through a difficult time in their marriage, and this personal experience may have influenced the emotional depth of the song.
Chart Success: "Chiquitita" was a commercial success for ABBA, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and South Africa. It also performed well in the United States, where it reached the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Bilingual Version: ABBA recorded a Spanish-language version of "Chiquitita" with the same title for release in Spanish-speaking markets. The group was known for releasing Spanish versions of some of their songs to cater to their global audience.
Charitable Contribution: ABBA donated half of the royalties from "Chiquitita" to UNICEF. This gesture was in line with the group's support for charitable causes, and the song was performed during the Music for UNICEF Concert in 1979, where various artists contributed to raise funds for the organization.
Music Video: The music video for "Chiquitita" was filmed on the grounds of the historic Drottningholm Palace in Sweden. The video features the members of ABBA, along with children dressed in traditional clothing, creating a visually striking and memorable production.
Legacy: "Chiquitita" remains one of ABBA's well-loved and enduring songs. It has been covered by various artists over the years and continues to be a favorite among fans. The song's timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics contribute to its enduring popularity.