Thursday 17 May 2012

Bravo, 1979: The truth about us

Bravo: Björn, do you have a new girlfriend? A couple of days ago, you were spotted with Lena Källersjö...
Björn: "I've known Lena for quite a few years now. She works for a record company here in Stockholm, that's how we met - but she is not my girlfriend. Our being together at that party was pure coincidence. A picture was taken while we were having a conversation. That's how the rumours start..."
Bravo: And what about the psychiatrist that Agnetha allegedly fell in love with, that is rumoured to be the reason for your divorce? Was he really the reason?
Björn: "That was Hakan Lonnbak. He has his office in Stockholm and Agnetha and I went to see him in October 1978. We were hoping he might be able to help us to overcome our problems. But it didn't work. It's nonsense that Agnetha allegedly fell in love with him on that occasion. The both of them are not living together either, which was even claimed in some newspapers."
Bravo: It was said that you were having an affair with Liz Mitchell from Boney M in Switzerland...
Björn: "That's a crazy story. We met Boney M in Switzerland when we were filming a television show for the BBC. Since we stayed at the same hotel - ABBA and Boney M - we were just sitting together during our breaks. And I talked to Liz on that occasion. She has a wonderful personality and she's very funny. I really enjoyed myself talking to her. We also danced with each other - but there was nothing else between us."
Bravo: Are you officially divorced by now?
Björn: "Yes, completely official, with a court decision and everything that goes with it. It's peculiar: since then I get along with Agnetha better than ever."
Bravo: Is it true that the release of the new ABBA album has been delayed due to personal conflicts?
Björn: "Perhaps the divorce has played a part in that, after all it isn't easy, but it wasn't the deciding factor. The true reason: Benny and I thought that the songs we had composed were not the best. We know that the fans expect something special from us every time. That's why we decided to get together again to compose some more."
Bravo: Is it true that you and Agnetha are arguing with each other about the children?
Björn: "We have agreed that both of us should be able to see the children whenever we want and have the time. They are living with Agnetha but I can talk to them whenever I want and I also have a say in their upbringing."
Bravo: Is it true that you want to cancel your tour through Germany?
Björn: "Absolutely not. First we are going on a holiday. As soon as we get back, we will decide in which countries we will perform, how many concerts we want to do in each country and when we will start. We are talking about a big world tour that will lead us to Japan, America and Australia as well. And we won't forget about our German fans. I think we will visit Germany in October."
Bravo: It is said that you have changed your lifestyle completely since your divorce, going to a lot of parties and dating a lot of girls.
Björn: "I don't think that's true at all. In essence, I'm quite a homely type of guy and I feel best within the four walls of my home. I actually don't go out more often than I used to. It's only being noticed more nowadays, because everywhere photographers are lurking around and they immediately take pictures wherever I show myself. Everyone wants to take the first picture of my new girlfriend. That gives the impression that I've become a playboy all of a sudden."
Bravo: It is claimed that Benny is angry. He believes that your divorce is hurting ABBA's reputation.
Björn: "No, Benny understands Agnetha and me completely. After all, he has been married before as well. And I hardly believe that our fans are blaming us for making this decision. After all, our music is the most important thing."

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