ABBA Duo to Play in U.S., But No Reunion

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Sept. 8, 2009 — -- Benny Andersson, one of the "B's" in ABBA, has spent the whole summer out in Sweden's Baltic archipelago and, on his first day back in the studio, is not in the mood for work.

The studio is by the water's edge on a small island in the middle of Stockholm, and is where Andersson writes most of his music. The airy space is decorated with beautiful paintings, modern tasteful furniture and doors designed with a modern folkloristic star pattern – all creating a warm, serene atmosphere.

"I am supposed to write new music, but I admit I am not feeling inspired at the moment. I have not written all summer," a tanned Andersson said with a relaxed smile.

That may change soon as autumn promises to be busy for the man behind most of ABBA's music and songwriter Björn Ulvaeus – the other "B" and Andersson's oldest friend and collaborator.

They have concerts lined up in Britain and the U.S., plans for a follow-up to musical hit Mamma Mia!, and the opening of a touring ABBAWORLD exhibition that they are not directly involved in but might attend.

Coming up first is a tribute concert to ABBA, "Thank You For the Music," in Hyde Park, London, on Sept. 13, including singers Kylie Minogue, Chaka Khan, Lulu, Elaine Page, and the West End cast of Mamma Mia!

Benny will also be on stage with the Swedish six-man band Orsa Spelmän, or Orsa Fiddlers' Ensemble, which plays Swedish folk music.

But it's two concerts at New York's Carnegie Hall on Sept. 23 and 24 that seem to stir most excitement in the seasoned musician, who has performed since childhood. Titled "Kristina," the concerts will contain a selection from his and Ulvaeus' musical "Kristina från Duvemåla."

"I know I will be nervous," Andersson said. "I will be curious to see the reaction from the audience."