"Take On Me" by a-ha is a classic 1980s pop song known for its catchy melody, memorable music video, and unique vocal style. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Music Video Innovation: The music video for "Take On Me" is one of the most iconic and innovative of its time. It combined live-action and animation, using a technique called rotoscoping, where live-action footage is traced over to create an animated look. This video won several awards and is considered a pioneering work in music video history.
Record-Breaking Chart Success: "Take On Me" was a massive commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1985, making a-ha the first Norwegian band to achieve this feat.
Falsetto Vocals: The song is notable for its use of falsetto singing in the chorus, which gives it a distinctive and memorable sound. Lead singer Morten Harket's falsetto vocal range played a significant role in the song's success.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Take On Me" has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. It remains a popular choice for artists to reinterpret due to its enduring appeal.
Debut Album: "Take On Me" was the lead single from a-ha's debut album, "Hunting High and Low," released in 1985. The album received critical acclaim and solidified a-ha's place in pop music history.
Cultural Impact: The song and its music video are often referenced in popular culture. It has been parodied in various forms of media and is frequently used to evoke nostalgia for the 1980s.
Awards and Nominations: "Take On Me" earned a-ha several awards and nominations, including six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986. The video won in categories like Best New Artist in a Video and Best Concept Video.
Continued Success: Despite being a one-hit wonder in the United States, a-ha enjoyed a successful career in Europe and other parts of the world. They released numerous albums and had several hits, including "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." and "Crying in the Rain."
Reimagined Versions: a-ha has recorded several alternate versions of "Take On Me" over the years, showcasing the song's versatility. These versions include acoustic renditions and remixes.
Legacy: "Take On Me" remains one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s and a symbol of the decade's pop culture. It continues to be loved by new generations of music enthusiasts and is frequently covered and referenced in various forms of media.
"Take On Me" and a-ha's unique blend of synth-pop and rock continue to have a lasting impact on the music industry, and the song remains a timeless classic.