Fernando is one of ABBAs most successful songs, released in 1976. The lyrics talk about two war veterans reminiscing about a past battle for freedom. Composed by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the song was not initially part of an ABBA album but launched as a single. The inspiration came when Bjorn Ulvaeus recalled his childhood, and Fernando was originally part of a musical project not directly related to ABBA.
Can you hear the drums Fernando? I remember long ago another starry night like this In the firelight Fernando You were humming to yourself and softly strumming your guitar I could hear the distant drums and sounds of bugle calls were coming from afar They were closer now Fernando Every hour, every minute seemed to last eternally I was so afraid Fernando We were young and full of life and none of us prepared to die And I'm not ashamed to say the roar of guns and cannons Almost made me cry
There was something in the air that night The stars were bright, Fernando They were shining there for you and me, for liberty, Fernando Though we never thought that we could lose, there's no regret If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando
Now we're old and grey Fernando And since many years I haven't seen a rifle in your hand Can you hear the drums Fernando? Do you still recall the fateful night we crossed the Rio Grande? I can see it in your eyes how proud you were to fight For freedom in this land
There was something in the air that night The stars were bright, Fernando They were shining there for you and me, for liberty, Fernando Though we never thought that we could lose, there's no regret If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando There was something in the air that night The stars were bright, Fernando They were shining there for you and me, for liberty, Fernando Though we never thought that we could lose, there's no regret If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando As if I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando
If I had to do the same again, I would, my friend, Fernando ------------------------------------- Tabbed by Eduard Möllenkamp, 2003