(ANS – London) – It is not every day that a world-famous rock star dedicates an interview to a school newspaper, moreover, talking about rather unusual topics such as the relationship between music and politics. Yet that is what happened with Swedish singer-songwriter Björn Ulvaeus, from the supergroup ABBA, who features in the Christmas edition of “Faith Matters”, just published by student reporters at St John Bosco College in Battersea, south London, under the guidance of editor-in-chief Fr Andrew.
They succeeded in contacting Björn through Abba’s manager, Görel Hanser – an achievement in itself. Instead of just focussing on the band, Isabella Fletcher and A Level Politics students asked Björn some very thoughtful questions about music and politics, creativity and human relationships.
The whole magazine is beautifully designed and laid out. There is some very good writing here – it will be interesting to see how many of the student reporters and editors on Faith Matters go on to become journalists in a few years time.
Below is the article published in Faith Matters with the interview with Björn Ulvaeus:
Dancing Queens, Pretty Ballerinas, Money, Money, Money, but what of politics and music? Read on to find out what Björn Ulvaeus has to say.
As a quarter of one of the greatest pop bands of all time, Björn Ulvaeus is instantly recognized for his catchy tunes and enduring lyrics. However, behind the Aha!s and My, my!s lies a deep thinker, just listen to the tracks Soldiers and Eagle. We wanted to probe a little deeper.
Do you think that music and politics can work well together?
No.
Do you think that true freedom of speech should allow controversial lyrics in music that promote harm or hatred?
No, ideally not, but it’s very difficult to define ‘harm’ and ‘hatred’, so it’s better to avoid listening to or generally ignore such lyrics if they come your way.
What impact have conflict and immigration had on music?
The influence from different cultures on one’s native culture (if there is one) because of immigration is, of course, immense. I find that the creative communities are more open to those influences than people in general. On a higher level… I think artists should let their voices be heard.
Does fostering of community spirit within society, or individualism, encourage creativity in artists?
Creative collaboration has been instrumental in my career, so you could say that I’ve been fostering a kind of ‘community spirit’ even if it sometimes has been a community of two! But joking aside, individualism seems to be a must for a big star. That doesn’t mean that the star has to be a diva. I’ve met many big stars who are as normal as me, but I think you can be an ‘individualist light’ in a society that fosters community spirit.
Have you noticed a shift in EU politics following the most recent election in the US and can strong leadership and democracy ever work?
Yes, I think that we’ve come to, or are beginning to come to, realise that America is not what it used to be. Awareness on every level. We’ve woken up to a reality where we have to defend ourselves without the help of the US. I hope it’s going to galvanise Europe against autocracy and dictatorship. Yes, there are many examples of strong leaders (not strongmen) in democracies. But why would we want ‘strong’ leaders? Why not intelligent, empathetic, knowledgeable and efficient leaders?
Do you think that artists have a moral duty to encourage political participation?
I’ve always avoided getting involved in national party politics but on a higher level, where equality between men and women, free speech and, indeed, democracy sit, I think artists should let their voices be heard.
To what extent should music artists be free to sample the work of others?
They should ask first. As theatre and music are very personal experiences, is there any point in having art/music critics?
As long as they are knowledgeable and give an accurate picture of what it is they have seen to begin with, they have a function. They can then give their own opinion on it, and if you’ve learned to trust this critic, he/she can be useful.
You mentioned in an interview with The Times that human relationships are very important. What would you say are the most important qualities for humans to develop in themselves?
Empathy, kindness, an ability to forgive, and critical thinking.
To read the whole Christmas edition of Faith Matters see: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/19644336/