"A-ha" is a Norwegian synth-pop band formed in Oslo in 1982. Their most famous song, "Take On Me," was released in 1984 and became a massive hit, propelling them to international fame. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Iconic Music Video: The music video for "Take On Me" is perhaps as famous as the song itself. It combined live-action and rotoscope animation, creating a unique and innovative visual style. The video's animation was achieved by tracing over the original footage, giving it a distinctive comic book aesthetic.
Early Versions: "Take On Me" underwent several versions before its final release. The song was initially a ballad, but the band reworked it into an upbeat synth-pop track, which contributed to its chart success.
Vocal Range: Morten Harket, the lead vocalist of a-ha, has an impressive vocal range. His falsetto in the chorus of "Take On Me" is particularly memorable and showcases his vocal versatility.
Chart Performance: "Take On Me" reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States in 1985. It also topped the charts in multiple other countries, including the United Kingdom and Norway.
Debut Album: The song was featured on a-ha's debut album titled "Hunting High and Low," released in 1985. The album itself was a commercial success and is considered one of the defining albums of the 1980s.
Breakthrough: "Take On Me" played a significant role in bringing synth-pop and new wave music into the mainstream. It introduced a-ha to a global audience and marked their breakthrough on the international music scene.
Award-Winning: The music video for "Take On Me" won six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986, including awards for Best New Artist in a Video and Best Concept Video. The video's innovative animation technique contributed to its recognition.
Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in various movies, TV shows, commercials, and video games over the years. Its catchy melody and memorable chorus have made it a timeless pop culture reference.
Reimagined Versions: "Take On Me" has been covered and reimagined by numerous artists across different genres, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Reunion and Continued Success: While a-ha went on hiatus multiple times, they reunited several times as well. They continued to release albums and tour, maintaining a dedicated fan base.
30th Anniversary: In 2015, a-ha celebrated the 30th anniversary of "Take On Me" by releasing an acoustic version of the song and embarking on a world tour.
Legacy: "Take On Me" remains one of the most recognizable and beloved songs of the 1980s. It has been included in various "best of" lists and retrospectives, solidifying its place in music history.
"Take On Me" by a-ha is not only a catchy pop song but also a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.