In the mid-80s, a unique sound emerged from the vibrant music scene of Norway, captivating the world with its synth-driven melodies and innovative music videos. “Take on Me” by a-Ha is a song that not only conquered the charts but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. This iconic track, with its catchy hooks and memorable falsetto, was a testament to the band’s ingenuity and the global appeal of Scandinavian pop.
Originally released in 1984, “Take on Me” was re-recorded and re-released in 1985, finally achieving the commercial success it deserved. This new version rocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and reached the top ten in numerous countries worldwide. The song’s success was bolstered by its groundbreaking music video, which seamlessly blended pencil-sketch animation with live-action footage. Directed by Steve Barron, this visual masterpiece was unlike anything seen before, earning a place in the annals of music video history.
a-Ha, consisting of Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, hailed from Oslo, Norway. Their journey to international fame was not an overnight success. The band members poured their passion for music into creating something that resonated beyond their homeland. “Take on Me” was their breakthrough, an anthem that showcased Harket’s impressive vocal range and the band’s penchant for crafting infectious pop melodies.
The song’s chart-topping performance was not just a personal victory for a-Ha but also a significant achievement for Norwegian music on the global stage. It demonstrated that talent knows no borders, and a great song can transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. “Take on Me” remains a beloved classic, a testament to the enduring power of music to connect people across the world.