10 Hidden Easter Eggs in Cher’s ‘Dancing Queen’ Album You Probably Missed!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
When Cher released her ‘Dancing Queen’ album in 2018, it was a triumphant tribute to the iconic music of ABBA. While fans worldwide celebrated the beloved tracks, many missed the clever Easter eggs Cher and her team sprinkled throughout the album. Here are ten hidden gems you probably missed:
- Hidden Homage in “Mamma Mia”
In “Mamma Mia,” if you listen closely at the 2:15 mark, you can hear a subtle nod to Cher’s 1998 hit “Believe.” The auto-tuned backing vocals subtly echo the iconic chorus of “Believe,” creating a nostalgic link between her past and present work. - “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” Time Signature Twist
True fans of Cher’s music might notice the rhythmic changes in “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight).” The song incorporates a time signature shift, reminiscent of Cher’s 1979 disco hit “Take Me Home,” blending the past with the ABBA classic. - “SOS” Sound Effects
The intro of “SOS” features a faint, Morse code-like beep in the background, which spells out “Cher” in Morse code. It’s a subtle signature that declares her presence and ownership over the rendition. - Subtle References in “Waterloo”
During the second verse of “Waterloo,” Cher’s vocal inflection mirrors her delivery in the 1989 hit “If I Could Turn Back Time.” It’s a playful vocal homage that longtime fans can appreciate. - “Chiquitita” Background Vocals
Listen carefully to “Chiquitita,” and you might hear a whispering voice in the background. This is actually a snippet from an old interview where Cher discussed her admiration for ABBA, blending her personal connection with the song’s narrative. - “Fernando” Film Flashback
The song “Fernando” features a subtle sound effect: the gentle murmur of waves and distant singing birds. These sounds are a direct reference to Cher’s role in the movie “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” where she performed the song, adding a cinematic touch to the track. - Lyrical Change in “One of Us”
In “One of Us,” Cher altered a single lyric in the chorus, adding the word “again” to “One of us is crying again.” This small change adds a layer of emotional depth and continuity to the story she’s telling through her covers. - “The Winner Takes It All” Vocal Techniques
Cher employs a unique vocal layering technique in “The Winner Takes It All,” reminiscent of her “Dark Lady” era. The harmonies and background vocals pay tribute to her earlier work while staying true to the ABBA classic. - Album Artwork Details
The album cover itself holds an Easter egg. The sequins on Cher’s outfit form a pattern that, upon closer inspection, resembles musical notes. These notes are actually the opening bars of “Dancing Queen,” tying the visual and auditory elements together seamlessly. - “Dancing Queen” Outro Surprise
At the very end of “Dancing Queen,” there’s a faint, almost imperceptible sound of laughter. This is a recording of Cher herself, a candid moment left in as a playful sign-off to the joyous album.
Cher’s ‘Dancing Queen’ album is not just a celebration of ABBA’s timeless music but also a treasure trove of hidden Easter eggs that reflect her storied career and artistic evolution. These subtle touches add layers of depth and connection for fans to discover, making the album a true homage to the past with an eye on the future. So, next time you listen, keep your ears open for these delightful surprises hidden in plain sight!
