ABBA, the 70s and 80s Swedish pop sensation, has lost one of their longtime guitarists, Lasse Wellander. The musician, who played with the iconic group for over a decade, passed away on June 24, 2021, at the age of 65. His passing was mourned by fans all over the world who recognized his contributions to ABBA’s legendary sound. Wellander’s unique style of playing guitar was a crucial part of ABBA’s success and helped to solidify the band’s status as one of the most popular and beloved groups in music history. As we pay tribute to Lasse Wellander and his remarkable career, we reflect on the impact that he had on the band, the music industry, and the world of pop culture.
ABBA’s Long-Term Guitarist Lasse Wellander Passes Away
The world of music mourns the loss of legendary Swedish guitarist Lasse Wellander, who passed away on Good Friday after a short battle with cancer. He was 69. His family shared the news with a statement on his Facebook page. Wellander, who was a long-time collaborator of popular Swedish pop group ABBA, was remembered with fondness by the band. In a statement, they said, “Lasse was a dear friend, a fun guy and a superb guitarist. The importance of his creative input in the recording studio as well as his rock-solid guitar work on stage was immense. We mourn his tragic and premature death and remember the kind words, the sense of humour, the smiling face, the musical brilliance of the man who played such an integral role in the ABBA story. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.”
Wellander’s early career with ABBA
Wellander’s career took off when he first joined ABBA in October 1974 as a session guitarist for their songs “Intermezzo No.1” and “Crazy World.” Soon after, he became a permanent guitarist for ABBA on their albums and tours. He toured with the band in 1975, 1977, 1979, and 1980. Even when the band members went their separate ways in 1982, Wellander remained close to Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and worked with them regularly.
A celebrated musician in his own right
While Wellander was known for his work with ABBA, his talent was not limited to just one band. He worked as a session musician and guitarist for scores of other groups and bands during the 80s and beyond, including the Low Budget Blues Band, Zkiffz, Little Mike and the Sweet Soul Music Band, and Stockholm All Stars. With seven studio albums to his credit, Wellander was a celebrated musician in his own right. Two of his albums even made it to the top 40 album charts. In recognition of his contributions to music, he was awarded the Albin Hagström Memorial Award by The Royal Swedish Academy of Music in 2005 and the prestigious Studioräven Award by the Swedish Musicians Union in 2018.
ABBA Pays Tribute to Wellander
In a statement, ABBA remembered their “dear friend, a fun guy, and a superb guitarist,” describing Wellander’s creative input in the recording studio and his rock-solid guitar work on stage as “immense.” Their statement reflected the sentiments of many who knew and admired Wellander’s talent and the kindness and humility with which he conducted himself. They bade farewell to their friend and collaborator, acknowledging that he would be deeply missed and never forgotten.
Wellander’s Last Moments
The news of Wellander’s passing has left his family and fans around the world in shock. The 69-year-old was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather, as well as an outstanding musician. His Facebook page has been flooded with messages of condolences, with many recalling their fond memories of the guitarist with admiration. In their statement, Wellander’s family remembered him as “kind, safe, caring, and loving…and so much more, that cannot be described in words. A hub in our lives, and it’s unbelievable that we now have to live on without you.”
In conclusion, the loss of Lasse Wellander is a significant loss to the world of music. While he will always be remembered for his work with ABBA, his individual contributions to music and his talent as a guitarist make him a legend in his own right. His family, friends, and fans around the world have been rocked by the news of his sudden passing, and he will be deeply missed by all. May his soul rest in peace.
Lasse Wellander may have left us, but his music will continue to live on forever. ABBA’s legendary guitarist left an indelible mark on the world of music, shaping the sound of one of the most influential bands of all time. His contributions to ABBA’s music, as well as his work with other artists, will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of musicians to come. As we bid farewell to Lasse Wellander, we honor his legacy by listening to his music, cherishing the memories he left behind, and celebrating the life of an extraordinary talent who will be forever missed.
