A-Ha – Take On Me: Lyrics and Music Video

"Take On Me" by a-ha is one of the most iconic synth-pop songs of the 1980s, celebrated for its catchy melody, high-energy vocals, and groundbreaking music video. Released in 1985, it became a global sensation, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The song was written by Magne Furuholmen, Morten Harket, and Pål Waaktaar, and its lyrics describe the pursuit of a romantic connection, even if it feels uncertain or fleeting. The track’s blend of pop and synth-driven instrumentation helped define a-ha’s sound and established their reputation as one of Norway’s most successful bands.

Key Details:

• Release Date: 1985
• Album: Hunting High and Low
• Writers: Magne Furuholmen, Morten Harket, Pål Waaktaar
• Producer: Alan Tarney

Themes and Meaning:

• Romantic Pursuit and Determination: The song’s lyrics capture a sense of urgency and a desire to connect deeply, reflecting the feeling of taking a chance on love.

• Emotional Vulnerability: The line "I'll be gone in a day or two" hints at the fleeting nature of love and the emotional risks involved in diving into a relationship.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus is widely recognized and captures the song’s mix of romantic yearning and upbeat tempo:

• "Take on me (take on me) / Take me on (take on me) / I'll be gone in a day or two."

These lyrics convey both a bold invitation and a hint of transience, making the song emotionally resonant.

Musical Style:

• Synth-Pop with a Memorable Riff: The song’s catchy synth riff and bright, upbeat melody make it instantly recognizable, and it became emblematic of 80s pop music.

• High-Energy Vocals: Morten Harket’s impressive vocal range, particularly his high falsetto notes, adds drama and intensity to the track, making it both memorable and impactful.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • "Take On Me" became a worldwide hit, reaching #1 in the United States and charting in multiple countries, firmly establishing a-ha on the global music scene.

The song's success made it one of the most celebrated pop hits of the 80s, with enduring popularity in both music and popular culture.

Music Video:

• Groundbreaking Animation Style: The music video, directed by Steve Barron, combined live-action with rotoscope animation to tell the story of a comic book character who comes to life. This innovative approach made it one of the most visually captivating videos of the MTV era.

• Award-Winning and Iconic: The video received six awards at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards and is still celebrated as a milestone in music video production.

Legacy and Reception:

• Timeless Appeal: "Take On Me" remains one of the most popular 80s songs, with frequent appearances in movies, TV shows, and commercials.

• Signature Song for a-ha: Though a-ha has other successful songs, "Take On Me" is undoubtedly their signature hit, defining their career and establishing them as icons of the 80s.

• Critical and Fan Acclaim: The song has been praised for its innovative sound, memorable melody, and ambitious music video, which helped it achieve legendary status in pop music.

Cultural Impact:

• 80s Synth-Pop Classic: "Take On Me" epitomizes 80s pop with its synth-heavy sound, and it’s frequently included in 80s music playlists and retrospectives.

• Influence on Music Videos: The video’s unique animation style set a new standard for creativity in music videos, influencing how visual storytelling could be integrated into music.

In Summary:

"Take On Me" by a-ha is a quintessential 80s pop song that combines an infectious melody, high-energy vocals, and groundbreaking visuals. Released in 1985, it became a global hit, topping charts and capturing the imagination of fans worldwide. With its innovative music video, catchy synth riff, and Morten Harket’s impressive vocal performance, "Take On Me" remains one of the most beloved songs of the 80s and a defining moment in pop music history.