"Take On Me" by a-ha is a classic song that was released in 1985 and has remained popular for decades. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Iconic Music Video: The music video for "Take On Me" is one of the most iconic and innovative videos in the history of music. It combines live-action and animation, creating a unique and visually stunning experience. The video won several awards, including six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986.
Comic Book Style: The animation in the music video was created using a technique called rotoscoping, where the live-action footage is traced over to create a hand-drawn look. This gave the video a distinct comic book style.
Instant Hit: "Take On Me" was a massive success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and staying there for a week in 1985. It also topped the charts in multiple other countries, including the United Kingdom.
Re-recorded Versions: a-ha initially released "Take On Me" in 1984, but it didn't gain widespread recognition until it was re-recorded and re-released in 1985. This version became the mega-hit we know today.
Debut Album Success: "Take On Me" was part of a-ha's debut album titled "Hunting High and Low," which also received critical acclaim and commercial success. The album reached platinum status in multiple countries.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Take On Me" has been covered and parodied by various artists and in various forms of media, including movies, TV shows, and commercials. It has become a pop culture staple.
Chart Reentry: In 2020, "Take On Me" reentered the UK singles chart and reached the top 40 again. This resurgence was attributed to the "Take On Me" challenge on the social media platform TikTok, where users recreated the music video's iconic transformation scene.
Record Sales: "Take On Me" remains one of the best-selling singles of all time, with millions of copies sold worldwide. It is often considered a classic of the 1980s pop music era.
A-ha's Legacy: While a-ha is sometimes considered a one-hit wonder because of the immense popularity of "Take On Me," the band has had a successful and enduring career with many other hit songs, such as "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." and "Cry Wolf."
Multiple Versions: Over the years, a-ha has released different versions and remixes of "Take On Me," showcasing its enduring appeal and adaptability to different musical styles.
"Take On Me" continues to be a beloved and recognizable song that has left a lasting impact on the world of music and visual storytelling.