As 2025 draws to a close, the Billboard year-end charts are abuzz with the resurgence of a familiar tune from the 1980s. A-ha’s “Take on Me” has reclaimed its status as a global sensation, securing the 125th spot on Billboard’s Global 200 chart. This timeless classic, originally released in June 1985 on the band’s debut album, “Hunting High and Low,” continues to captivate audiences across generations.
In a recent interview with Music Radar, A-ha’s Magne Furuholmen reminisced about the song’s inception, revealing that the iconic keyboard riff was crafted when he was just 15 years old. Despite initial doubts from bandmate Paul Waaktaar-Savoy about its commercial appeal, Furuholmen’s catchy creation eventually won over the group, with Morten Harket proclaiming it a hit riff worthy of their first record.
The song’s success is not limited to its catchy melody; the groundbreaking music video also played a significant role in its rise to fame. Filmed at Kim’s Café in London and on a sound stage in 1985, the video utilized rotoscoping, a technique that combines pencil-sketch animation with live-action footage. This innovative approach, involving around 3,000 frames and 16 weeks of work, brought to life a unique visual world shared by Harket and his then-girlfriend, Bunty Bailey.
Despite A-ha’s initial split following their “Ending on a High Note Tour,” the band reunited in 2015 to release their tenth studio album, “Cast in Steel.” Their enduring appeal and continued success are a testament to the timeless quality of their music, which transcends boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide.
As we look back on the legacy of “Take on Me,” it becomes clear that the song and its accompanying video represent a defining moment in music history. A-ha’s ability to blend catchy tunes with innovative visuals has solidified their place as cultural icons, inspiring generations of artists and music lovers alike.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.