a-ha – Take On Me

A-ha – Take On Me: A Timeless Classic That Defined the 80s

In the world of music, some songs are more than just a melody—they become iconic anthems, symbols of an era. One such song is “Take On Me” by A-ha, the Norwegian synth-pop band that captured the hearts of millions in the 1980s. With its upbeat tempo, unforgettable melody, and groundbreaking music video, “Take On Me” remains one of the most beloved songs of all time, and its impact on pop culture is undeniable. Let’s take a closer look at what made “Take On Me” such a revolutionary track and why it continues to hold a special place in our hearts.

The Birth of a Classic

Released in 1984, “Take On Me” was the third single from A-ha’s debut album, Hunting High and Low. At the time, the music scene was dominated by the rise of electronic pop and new wave music, and A-ha was right at the heart of this movement. The song was written by lead vocalist Morten Harket, keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, and guitarist Paul Waaktaar-Savoy. With its infectious synth riff and energetic beat, “Take On Me” quickly stood out as a shining example of 80s synth-pop.

But it wasn’t just the music that made “Take On Me” stand out—it was the unique combination of catchy pop hooks, heartfelt lyrics, and the groundbreaking visuals of its music video. The song became an instant hit in Europe, but it was the success of the music video that propelled it into the global spotlight.

The Music Video: A Revolutionary Achievement

A-ha’s music video for “Take On Me” was a game-changer in the world of music videos. Directed by Steve Barron, the video was a stunning blend of live-action and animation, using a technique called rotoscoping. This innovative style involved tracing over live-action footage to create an animated effect, which was groundbreaking at the time.

The video tells the story of a young woman who is drawn into a fantastical comic book world, where she meets Morten Harket’s character, who’s trying to convince her to “take on” life with him. The blending of reality and animation, combined with the dreamlike narrative, created an unforgettable visual experience that captured the imagination of viewers. The video was so innovative that it won several awards, including six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986, helping cement A-ha’s status as global superstars.

The Song’s Lyrics: A Message of Hope and Romance

While the video was visually striking, the lyrics of “Take On Me” also played a major role in the song’s appeal. The lyrics tell a story of love, yearning, and the desire to take a chance on life and relationships. Morten Harket’s soaring vocals, especially in the iconic high notes of the chorus, perfectly express the vulnerability and hopefulness embedded in the song. Lines like “Take on me, take me on, I’ll be gone, in a day or two” evoke the idea of seizing the moment and taking risks, no matter how fleeting life may seem.

The song’s lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever felt the thrill and uncertainty of embarking on a new romantic adventure, making it timeless. Despite its synth-heavy production, the emotional core of the song is something that still connects with listeners today.

A-ha’s Enduring Legacy

a-ha – Take On Me
a-ha – Take On Me

Take On Me became A-ha’s biggest hit, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985. It remains a defining moment in pop music history, and A-ha’s success has only continued to grow. The band’s legacy extends beyond just this one song; they are known for creating timeless tracks that combine lush melodies with emotional depth, and they continue to tour and make music to this day.

A-ha’s success also helped to popularize Norwegian music on the global stage, paving the way for future artists from the country. In addition, “Take On Me” has remained a mainstay in popular culture, frequently appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials. Its infectious melody and unforgettable hook make it a song that still has the power to make people smile, dance, and reminisce.

Why Does Take On Me Still Matter Today?

The enduring appeal of “Take On Me” is not just a result of nostalgia—it’s a testament to the song’s timeless qualities. The catchy tune, combined with its emotional lyrics and groundbreaking music video, means that the song still sounds fresh and relevant decades after its release. It’s one of those rare tracks that can transport you to another time, while also feeling universally relatable and timeless.

In a world filled with countless songs and musical trends, “Take On Me” remains a standout example of what makes a song truly special. It’s a song that brings joy, excitement, and a sense of adventure, and it’s a reminder of the power of music to transcend time and connect us all.

Conclusion

A-ha’s “Take On Me” is a shining example of 80s pop music at its finest, blending catchy melodies with emotional depth and an innovative music video that pushed the boundaries of the genre. Its impact on music and pop culture is undeniable, and it continues to capture the hearts of new generations of listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan of A-ha or hearing the song for the first time, “Take On Me” is a song that will never fade, and it will always be remembered as one of the greatest pop anthems of all time.

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤

Talking away
I don’t know what I’m to say
I’ll say it anyway
Today is another day to find you
Shying away
I’ll be coming for your love. OK?

Take on me (take on me)
Take me on (take on me)
I’ll be gone
In a day or two

So needless to say
Of odds and ends
But I’ll be stumbling away
Slowly learning that life is OK.
Say after me,
“It’s no better to be safe than sorry.”

Take on me (take on me)
Take me on (take on me)
I’ll be gone
In a day or two

Oh, things that you say. Yeah.
Is it life or just to play my worries away?
You’re all the things I’ve got to remember
You’re shying away
I’ll be coming for you anyway

Take on me (take on me)
Take me on (take on me)
I’ll be gone
In a day

Take on me (take on me)
Take me on (take on me)
I’ll be gone
In a day

Take on me (take on me)
Take me on (take on me)

 

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