a-ha

A-ha: The Norwegian Synth-Pop Kings

A-ha, the Scandinavian synth-pop trio that captivated the world in the 80s, are more than just the guys behind the iconic “Take On Me” music video. Their journey is filled with musical innovation, catchy melodies, and a few hilarious anecdotes that solidify their place in music history.

From Oslo to the World:

• Founded in 1982, the band comprised of Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy emerged from the fertile musical scene of Oslo, Norway. They were pioneers of the synth-pop movement, injecting their music with catchy melodies, driving beats, and a distinct melancholic undertone.

Early Success & “Take On Me”:

• Their 1985 breakthrough, the single “Take On Me”, became a global phenomenon. The accompanying music video, featuring groundbreaking rotoscoping animation, revolutionized music video aesthetics and remains an iconic piece of pop culture history.

The “Hunting High And Low” Era:

• Their debut album “Hunting High And Low” (1985) cemented their success. The album’s singles, like “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.”, “Train of Thought”, and “The Blue Sky” solidified their sound and proved their songwriting prowess.

The Rise of the Synth-Pop Era:

• A-ha played a crucial role in popularizing the synth-pop genre throughout the 80s. Their sound influenced numerous artists and solidified their place as one of the most significant bands of the decade.

Beyond the Synth:

• The band didn’t shy away from experimenting with different sounds throughout their career, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and even electronica. This experimentation led to hits like “Cry Wolf” and “Stay on These Roads”.

Funny Facts:

• Morten Harket’s Vocal Range: He possesses a truly extraordinary vocal range, capable of reaching high notes with a clarity that few singers can match. This, however, can sometimes cause him to lose his voice after a performance. One time, during a concert in Paris, he ended up losing his voice completely, leading to a funny exchange with the audience where he had to gesture wildly instead of singing.
• Paul Waaktaar-Savoy’s Quirky Personality: He’s known for his unconventional personality. During a music video shoot for “Cry Wolf”, he insisted on wearing a custom-made, full-body, leopard-print spandex suit, leading to much amusement amongst the crew and even prompting some mild confusion among the viewers.
• Magne Furuholmen’s Artistic Side: Besides being an exceptional musician, he is also a talented painter and visual artist. He even created a series of paintings inspired by A-ha’s music, adding another layer of creativity to their artistry.

Legacy and Lasting Influence:

• A-ha’s impact on the music world is undeniable. Their influence extends beyond the synth-pop genre, impacting generations of artists with their infectious melodies, unique sound, and enduring themes of love, loss, and human connection.

Conclusion:

A-ha’s journey is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people across the globe. Their unique sound, their innovative spirit, and their entertaining quirks have ensured their place as a legendary band that continues to inspire and entertain.