Amidst the glittering spectacle and extravagant performances that have come to define the Eurovision Song Contest, there exists a moment frozen in time, etched into the annals of music history—the year 1974. This was the year when Abba, then a relatively unknown Swedish group, took the stage with their iconic song “Waterloo” and forever changed the landscape of pop music.

Now, fifty years later, the footage of Abba’s performance at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest remains etched in our collective memory. It’s a scene that has been replayed countless times, capturing the essence of an era when Eurovision was a serious affair, devoid of the campy extravagance that defines it today. This weekend, BBC Four is set to air the entire 1974 grand final, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the Eurovision of yesteryears.

In 1974, Eurovision was a different beast altogether—a far cry from the glitzy, over-the-top spectacle it has become. The show took itself seriously, with commentators like David Vine delivering colorful descriptions of the competing nations and their performers. The atmosphere was one of anticipation, with each country vying for the coveted title of Eurovision champion.

Against this backdrop of seriousness and stiff competition, Abba’s performance stood out like a beacon of light. Dressed in satin and silver platform boots, the Swedish quartet brought a touch of glam to the stage—a stark contrast to the cabaret-style ballads and oompah music that dominated the contest.

But despite their undeniable talent and infectious energy, Abba faced stiff competition from the likes of Italy’s Gigliola Cinquetti and Dutch duo Mouth and MacNeal. It wasn’t until the dust settled and the votes were tallied that Abba emerged victorious, propelling them to international fame and cementing their status as one of the greatest pop acts of all time.

Looking back on the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, it’s clear that Abba’s presence was a game-changer. Their win marked a turning point in Eurovision history, paving the way for future acts to embrace a more contemporary sound and style. And while many of the other performers from that year have faded into obscurity, Abba’s music continues to endure, transcending generations and borders.

As we revisit the events of 1974, we’re reminded of the power of music to captivate and inspire. Abba’s triumph at Eurovision may have been just three minutes on stage, but its impact has reverberated through the decades, reminding us that sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of pop magic to change the world.