As performers, we have all always loved the music of ABBA, as most people do; ABBA appeals to every demographic, from age 7 to 100 years, and nearly everyone in the world knows and relates to ABBA’s songs. This is why we perform at so many beautiful weddings, especially when there is a wonderful wedding song by ABBA: ‘I Do, I Do, I Do!”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, FABBAGIRLS
FABBAGIRLS is a multiple-award winning ABBA tribute band based in the UK, renowned for their electrifying performances and authentic renditions of ABBA’s greatest hits. Formed by professional vocalists Susie Webb and Zoe Nicholas, FABBAGIRLS captures the essence of the legendary group, making them a popular choice for luxury weddings, private parties, and corporate events. With a reputation for excellence, FABBAGIRLS is frequently seen performing at prestigious venues like The Royal Albert Hall, enchanting audiences with their vibrant energy and nostalgic charm. Here we meet Susie to discuss the best way to celebrate the festive season in FABBAGIRLS style…
C&B: “Susie, FABBAGIRLS is renowned for being the most successful ABBA tribute band, having performed with – and in front of – some of the most notable names on the planet. How do you prepare to authentically recreate the original band’s iconic vibe?”
SW: “As far as stage presence is concerned, we’ve created our own choreography which is quirky, cool and occasionally has a humorous touch. We perform at high profile events worldwide, so we always dress beautifully for the occasion. We have our costumes made for us – they’re not exact replicas of ABBA costumes, we put our own twist on them so that they’re gorgeous, sexy, cool, and very elegant. Our boys are also dressed in stunning outfits that we have made to complement ours…“
Occasionally, we incorporate songs from other artists into our show when it is relevant, such as a selection of festive songs over the Christmas period. However, we always ensure that these additions are performed in the ABBA style. This approach works really well and infuses the performance with an upbeat Christmas spirit…”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, FABBAGIRLS
C&B: “One of the main features of ABBA music is that it gets everyone on the dance-floor almost immediately – which song would you say your global audiences love most?”
SW: “The ABBA song that always gets the biggest reaction is ‘Dancing Queen.’ It’s truly a floor-filler, and I believe that will never change, regardless of where one is in the world or their age. Also, there’s ‘Mamma Mia,’ which is hugely popular, mainly due to the success of the fantastic films and musicals associated with it! Other songs that go down really well with the guests are ‘Voulez Vous’ and ‘Lay All Your Love On Me’. We also love performing ‘The Name of the Game’…”
We have our FABBAGIRLS costumes made for us bespoke, and sometimes clients take a particular interest in that aspect of our wardrobe to ensure we fit into the theme of their event. In fact, the fabulous Johnny Roxburgh had us dressed up in nun habits when performing at a party in Salzburg… we had to rip off our habits to reveal our white satin ABBA costumes underneath – now that was a memorable experience! Dear Johnny is exceptional at identifying creative themes for extraordinary parties; and that’s why he’s known globally as ‘The Party Architect’!”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, FABBAGIRLS
C&B: “It’s incredible that these songs have remained such classics over the decades, with most people able to sing them word-for-word. As we approach the festive season, will the FABBAGIRLS setlist change at all?”
SW: “Our setlist does vary based on several factors. For instance, we incorporate a selection of Christmas songs into our show during the festive season. However, our clients really prefer us to focus on maintaining an upbeat and lively ABBA-inspired performance so that everyone remains engaged and enjoys the dancing aspect…”
At the beginning, we did spend a considerable amount of time studying ABBA’s songs, especially the harmonies. Our background involves singing harmonies and backing vocals with some of the world’s greatest rock stars and artists, such as Queen, Sting, Lionel Richie, Phil Collins, Pavarotti, and many more. Therefore, we’re quite adept at working out all the intricacies in each of the songs. It’s not a chore for us – this is what we do, and we aim to do it well. We love performing!”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, Fabbagirls
C&B: “Are there any challenges in recreating ABBA’s style and energy?”
SW: “The challenge is that the ABBA songs are not easy to authentically recreate. The harmonies are extensive, and the intricate chord sequences are difficult to play unless you have highly skilled musicians – which we are fortunate to have! However, it is not just about playing the instruments and singing; it’s also about the interaction of all the different personalities on stage. Personality is everything within our band, and this is a key emphasis for us. The musicians and singers we work with are the best you can find; that’s a given. We collaborate tirelessly with these individuals to create the best ABBA tribute band in the world, and so far that formula has been very successful…”
Previously we worked alongside various comedians, and the Swedish accent actually originated from that experience. Additionally, one of my best friends was a nanny from Sweden, which allowed me to practice the accent with her. She provided us with valuable advice and taught us the nuances of the accent. We love Scandinavians!”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, FABBAGIRLS
C&B: “As you’re constantly performing at major events around the globe, how do you manage to keep each occasion fresh for both yourselves and the audience?”
SW: “We love it when unexpected events occur, even if they’re slightly beyond our control. For example, when our client spontaneously jumps on stage, or requests a bespoke dance, or joins us singing onstage – it all adds tremendous fun to the performance, and we enjoy involving them as much as possible. We performed at a wedding where the groom was flown into a riad on a magic carpet in Istanbul, another where guests were jumping off a boat into the ocean while we performed in Sardinia for royalty, and yet another when a group of ladies leapt into a swimming pool in their sequinned evening gowns while we played. These experiences all highlight the excitement and good vibes generated by our music!”
C&B: “That’s the thing about ABBA music – it’s loved by every audience in any location! Are there any particular venues that stand out to you?”
SW: “Yes, we’ve performed numerous times in Barbados and thoroughly enjoyed our performances both the Sandy Lane Hotel and at the fabulous Lone Star, where a stage was erected out over the sea. We’ve performed at the New Year’s parties held there, which are very lively. Also, we loved performing on a snowy mountainside in St. Moritz for the exclusive RSVP Club. The guests responded as anticipated – going absolutely wild! ABBA music is nostalgic and happy, occasionally tinged with a touch of sentimentality which is perfect for the festive season. For an hour, our performance features a series of all the hit songs, accompanied by the guests enjoying champagne, eggnog, and just a few vodka shots!”
Somehow, ABBA music becomes relevant whenever we perform – wherever we go, whether it’s Barbados or Trinidad, even if the original theme has nothing to do with ABBA! It’s fun; we put flower garlands around our necks, and the ABBA magic enhances the event; it always seems to work!”
Susie Webb, Co-founder, FABBAGIRLS
C&B: “That sounds like the epitome of a good party! What’s been your most memorable moment as an ABBA tribute band so far?”
SW: “I do remember we were performing our normal backing vocals during a 9-month tour with Brian May (of QUEEN fame), and one night, while we were in Sweden, he said, ‘Girls, get your FABBAGIRLS costumes out!’ Luckily, we happened to have them with us, so we sang ‘Dancing Queen’ with Brian playing the main hook on guitar. The Circus venue in Stockholm went absolutely wild!”
C&B: “That sounds hilarious – what a combination! You’ve worked with so many of the major stars; but have you ever met or received feedback from the four members of the original ABBA?”
SW: “Yes, we met the original members of ABBA at the opening of the ‘Mamma Mia’ stage show in London, and we had a lovely chat. They’re happy that their music has been brought back into the spotlight by FABBAGIRLS, as it had all gone quite quiet for them prior to the launch of the musical…”
C&B: “That’s a good point – congratulations on helping to keep the ABBA legacy well and truly alive! Last question, Susie – what would you say have been the highest points of your FABBAGIRLS career, so far?”
SW: “We sing in the SAS Band – Spike’s All Stars. Spike is the keyboard player and musical director of QUEEN. Through this, we’ve performed alongside a number of great artists, who have surprised us by coming on stage and following us around, which has been hysterical. Tony Hadley, Leo Sayer, and Paul Young are among those with whom we’ve had so much fun working, and they always love our show…”
Susie and Zoe must be seen and heard to be believed! You’re experiencing something much more than just a ‘cover band’ here – FABBAGIRLS is a unique act – a highly conscious representation of ABBA, the phenomenon laced with gentle yet brilliantly incisive humour. And, BOY, can they sing!”
Brian May, QUEEN
FABBAGIRLS RECENT DESTINATIONS & SAMPLE CLIENT LIST:
USA: Microsoft
Bangkok: performance with a 75-piece orchestra
Trinidad & Tobego: performing with The Islanders
Sardinia: Yacht party hosted by members of Brunei royal family
St. Moritz: 125th anniversary of annual Cresta Run
Carnaby St, London: 50th anniversary
Trafalgar Square: PRIDE London,
St Tropez: Club 55
Monaco: Hotel De Paris; Bal de La Mer
Barbados: Sandy Lane
WATCH THIS SPACE: Susie is currently collaborating on an exciting new ABBA-inspired conceptual project with Kevin Abela, who serves as the orchestrator and music director, alongside the producer Elton Zarb. This endeavour promises to be something truly special. Stay tuned for updates!
CONTACT: http://www.fabbagirls.com
