"A-ha" is a Norwegian synth-pop band known for their hit song "Take On Me," which was released in 1985. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Iconic Music Video: "Take On Me" is particularly famous for its groundbreaking music video. The video combined live-action and animation, using a technique called rotoscoping, where live footage was traced over to create an animated look. This innovative video won six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986 and is often regarded as one of the most memorable music videos of the 1980s.
Chart-Topping Success: "Take On Me" was a massive commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, becoming a No. 1 hit. It also reached the top of the charts in numerous other countries, solidifying A-ha's international fame.
Debut Album: The song "Take On Me" was included in A-ha's debut studio album, "Hunting High and Low," which was released in 1985. The album received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, establishing the band as a prominent force in the 1980s music scene.
Changing Styles: A-ha's music style evolved over the years. While they initially gained fame for their synth-pop sound, they experimented with different genres in subsequent albums, including alternative rock and acoustic music. This versatility has allowed them to maintain a dedicated fan base throughout their career.
Guinness World Record: A-ha set a Guinness World Record in 1991 for the world's largest paying audience when they performed to a crowd of 198,000 people in Rio de Janeiro during the Rock in Rio festival.
Bond Theme: A-ha also had the honor of recording the theme song for the 1987 James Bond film "The Living Daylights." The song, titled "The Living Daylights," became another chart success for the band.
Hiatus and Reunions: A-ha went on hiatus in the early 1990s but reunited in 1998 to release new music and embark on world tours. They officially disbanded in 2010 but reunited again in 2015, celebrating their 30th anniversary. They released new music and continued to perform together.
Enduring Popularity: "Take On Me" has remained a beloved and enduring pop classic, frequently covered and featured in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and commercials. It continues to introduce new generations to A-ha's music.
"Take On Me" and A-ha's career have left a lasting impact on the music industry, and the song's innovative music video remains an iconic piece of pop culture.