“The press has always written that I am a recluse and a mysterious woman, but I am more down-to-earth than they think.”

When I record, it feels like I’m in a bubble. There’s nothing else in my head right then.

My life contains so many other things; I have my children, my grandchildren, my two dogs and a big place in the country. I have my own life.

I would like to sing the theme tune of a big film – something like ‘Titanic’.

When you love someone, and you’ve lost that one, then nothing really matters.

My professional persona never loosens its grip, keeping an eye on me at all times.

There was a time when the music fell silent. Both within me and around me.

I have one pug and one Czechoslovakian dog called Prazsky krysarik.

Abba’s last tour was a success but awful for me.

I must be allowed to be as I am.

No one who has experienced facing a screaming, boiling, hysterical audience can avoid feeling shivers in the spine. It’s a thin line between celebration and menace.

I am uninterested in appearing in newspapers and on television.

When I was 25, Abba was formed. After Abba I made three solo albums. Maybe I have been productive enough.

I have always had strong maternal instincts.

You never get it back, but to this day I don’t regret splitting up.

It’s just that song, and I’m trying to really sound like what the song is about.

Not a vital necessity, like it is for so many people. I enjoy it but I can see right through it!

The good thing about me is I just don’t shop high-end.