"Timeless Pursuit: The Heartfelt Echoes of A-ha's 'Take on Me'"

Trivia Bomb: Did You Know?

For all you New Wave aficionados, did you know that "Take on Me" was originally released in 1984 but failed to chart? It took a re-release and an iconic music video to shoot this gem into the stratosphere of 80s music glory.

History of the Song

"Take on Me" by A-ha is not just a song; it's a melodic time capsule that captured the essence of the mid-80s. Originally released in September 1984, the initial version failed to make a splash. But hold onto your leg warmers, because this story has a plot twist. Producer Alan Tarney re-recorded and polished the track, and in 1985, it was re-released with an additional weapon in its arsenal: an innovative music video that combined rotoscoping and live-action.

The song skyrocketed to the top of the charts worldwide and became synonymous with the era’s synth-pop craze. With its upbeat tempo and catchy melodies, "Take on Me" wasn’t just a hit; it was an anthem.

The Dream Team Involved

Who do we thank for this auditory awesomeness? At the forefront, we have A-ha: Morten Harket belting out those high notes, Pål Waaktaar-Savoy on guitar, and Magne Furuholmen tickling the ivories on synthesizer. Behind the scenes, you have Alan Tarney’s production genius and director Steve Barron’s visionary music video that caught MTV by storm.

Why it Matters Today

Flash forward to today, and "Take on Me" remains a mainstay in playlists and movie soundtracks. The music video broke ground in combining live-action with animation, influencing countless artists and directors. Whether you’re at an 80s-themed party or queuing up throwbacks on your streaming service, the impact of "Take on Me" is undeniable. It’s not just the nostalgia; it’s the timeless energy that makes this track perpetually relevant.

Peeling Back the Lyrics

Let’s look at the lyrics that left millions tapping their feet and nodding their heads:

"Take on me, take me on, I'll be gone in a day or two."

On the surface, it sounds straightforward, but there’s often more than meets the eye. The song narrates a love interest that’s daring yet fleeting, like the ephemeral nature of youth and ambition. It’s a poetic capture of seizing the moment, wrapped in infectious hooks and falsetto highs. The lyrics convey urgency and promise but also a bittersweet realization that these moments are transient.

A Question to Ponder

Consider this: How often do we let the fear of fleeting moments prevent us from diving headfirst into what we truly desire? Is there something holding you back from taking that leap?

Final Thoughts

"Take on Me" by A-ha is more than a quintessential 80s track with a killer music video; it's a reminder to grasp life's opportunities with both hands. As you hum along to its iconic chorus, think about the doors you've hesitated to open. Maybe, just maybe, it’s time to take them on.