Il Volo star Ignazio Boschetto delivered a stunning surprise when he performed ABBA’s timeless ballad “The Winner Takes It All” for the very first time with a full live band in Mantua on May 19, 2025.
The emotional performance quickly caught attention online, with fans calling it one of his most powerful solo moments to date. Known for his rich tenor voice, Ignazio stepped into the spotlight alone and transformed the 1980 classic into a dramatic, goosebump-inducing experience.
One fan wrote, “His performance could move even the stones!” Another described it as “literally giving goosebumps,” while many simply called it “magnificent,” “fantastic,” and “pure Ignazio.” Messages of “Bravissimo!” poured in from listeners across Europe and Latin America, praising both his vocal control and emotional depth.
Originally recorded by ABBA in 1980, “The Winner Takes It All” remains one of the most heartbreaking breakup songs in pop history. Written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the ballad was famously sung by Agnetha Fältskog the same year she and Ulvaeus divorced. Though Björn later said the song was not directly about their split, he admitted it captures the painful emotions that come with divorce.
The song topped the UK charts in 1980 and became one of ABBA’s signature hits. It has since been covered by major artists including Meryl Streep in the film version of Mamma Mia!, as well as Cher and Susan Boyle.
Taking on such an iconic song is never easy. But Ignazio approached it with respect and passion, backed by a full band that gave the ballad a richer, more dramatic sound. His voice soared through the chorus, carrying the pain and strength in the lyrics with striking clarity.
Fans who attended the Mantua concert said the performance left many in tears. For some, it was more than just a cover — it felt personal. One longtime supporter wrote that Ignazio’s voice has become “a light at the end of the tunnel” during difficult times.
With this first live rendition of “The Winner Takes It All,” Ignazio Boschetto proved once again why he remains one of the most compelling voices of his generation.
