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Take On Me š¹: The Untold Story & 12 Must-Know Facts (2025)
You think you know Take On Me? That infectious synth riff, Morten Harketās sky-high falsetto, and the iconic pencil-sketch video are just the tip of the iceberg. But did you know the music video took over 3,000 hand-drawn frames and 16 weeks to create? Or that the songās journey from a modest 1982 demo to a global #1 hit involved multiple remixes, a near-rejected chorus, and a producer who transformed it into the synth-pop masterpiece we adore today?
In this deep dive, Synth Pop⢠unpacks everything you ever wanted to know about Take On Me ā from its quirky origins and groundbreaking production techniques to its cultural legacy and jaw-dropping chart stats. Plus, we reveal the best covers, live versions, and even how to nail that impossible falsetto yourself. Ready to take on the ultimate synth-pop anthem? Letās go!
Key Takeaways
- āTake On Meā evolved from a humble 1982 demo to a global smash thanks to Alan Tarneyās remix and a groundbreaking rotoscope video.
- Morten Harketās falsetto chorus is one of the most challenging in pop history, requiring precise vocal control.
- The music videoās innovative blend of live action and hand-drawn animation set new standards for visual storytelling in music.
- Multiple covers and remixes, from Reel Big Fish to Kygo, showcase the songās timeless appeal and versatility.
- The track remains a cultural touchstone, with billions of streams, MTV awards, and a permanent place in synth-pop history.
Curious about the synth settings, guitar tabs, or where to stream the best remasters? Keep reading ā weāve got you covered!
Table of Contents
- ā”ļø Quick Tips and Facts About āTake On Meā
- šø The Rise of āTake On Meā: Origins and 80s Synth-Pop Explosion
- š¤ Behind the Scenes: Recording, Production, and Studio Magic
- š¼ Anatomy of a Synth-Pop Classic: Composition and Songwriting Secrets
- šŗ Iconic Music Video Breakdown: Animation, Storytelling, and Visual Effects
- š Chart-Topping Triumphs: Global Performance and Records
- šļø Release Timeline: From Demo to Worldwide Hit
- šµ Track Listings and Versions: Exploring Different Releases and Remixes
- š„ Credits and Collaborators: Meet the Minds Behind the Magic
- š Certifications and Awards: Recognizing āTake On Meāās Enduring Legacy
- šļø Live Performances and MTV Unplugged: Acoustic and Unplugged Versions
- š· Cover Chronicles: Reel Big Fish, A1, and Other Memorable Versions
- šµļø āļø Fun Facts and Easter Eggs: Hidden Gems You Didnāt Know About
- š§ How to Play āTake On Meā: Guitar Tabs, Synth Settings, and Vocal Tips
- š Cultural Impact and Legacy: Why āTake On Meā Still Matters Today
- š Where to Buy and Stream āTake On Meā: Best Platforms and Editions
- š Frequently Asked Questions About āTake On Meā
- š Recommended Links and Further Reading
- š Reference Links and Source Material
- š¤ Conclusion: Why āTake On Meā Remains the Ultimate Synth-Pop Anthem
ā”ļø Quick Tips and Facts About āTake On Meā
- BPM? 169 ā perfect for that heart-racing 80s sprint š āļø
- Key? A major ā the happiest of all guitar-friendly keys šø
- Vocal span? Two-and-a-half octaves, culminating in a glass-shattering falsetto that Rolling Stone calls āone of the hardest-to-sing choruses in pop historyā (source).
- Synth-spotting: Roland Juno-60, PPG Wave, Yamaha DX7 ā holy trinity of 80s wavetable & FM goodness.
- Video trick? 3,000+ hand-drawn rotoscope frames over 16 weeks ā the first 1980s video to hit 2 billion YouTube views (YouTube blog).
- Need an acoustic vibe? Check our deep-dive on Take On Me Acoustic šø: 7 Stunning Versions & How to Master Them (2025) for finger-picking patterns and Kygo-style trop-house chords.
Pro-tip: If you DJ weddings, slam the Reel Big Fish ska-punk cover for instant mosh-pit mayhem; switch to the MTV Unplugged version for the teary slow-dance. Works. Every. Time. ā
šø The Rise of āTake On Meā: Origins and 80s Synth-Pop Explosion
Ever wondered how three Norwegian lads scribbling demos in cold Oslo bedrooms accidentally wrote the synth-pop national anthem? Pull up a neon bar-stool ā hereās the origin story, complete with dodgy first mixes, a British producer who ādidnāt get the synth thingā, and a last-minute hook that saved the entire track from bargain-bin obscurity.
From āLesson Oneā to Global Ear-Worm
The riff started life as āLesson Oneā, a jokey warm-up Magne Furuholmen played on his Juno-60 while waiting for the tape to roll. PĆ„l Waaktaar-Savoy heard it, hit RECORD, and the skeleton of āTake On Meā was born.
- 1984 Mansfield mix = jangly, under-powered, flopped outside Norway (Discogs release page).
- 1985 Alan Tarney remix = bigger drums, tighter chorus, #2 UK, #1 US Billboard (Billboard chart history).
Why the Second Attempt Slapped Harder
Tarney swapped the live snare for a LinnDrum, doubled the synth-bass with a sneaky DX7 electric-piano layer, and ā crucially ā asked Morten to hold that falsetto note two beats longer. Instant goose-bumps.
Bottom line: without the remix, weād be humming āLesson Oneā in the shower instead of the iconic octave-leap chorus we all pretend we can hit⦠but rarely do. āš¤
š¤ Behind the Scenes: Recording, Production and Studio Magic
Gear Table ā What We Know Was Patched In
| Instrument / Machine | Purpose | Cool Trivia |
|---|---|---|
| Roland Juno-60 | Main arpeggio | On-board chorus cranked to 80% for shimmer |
| PPG Wave 2.2 | Metallic bell stab | Sampled through an EMT 140 plate reverb |
| Yamaha DX7 | Electric-bass patch | Layered underneath real bass for extra punch |
| LinnDrum | Backbone beat | Hi-hat overdubbed live because machine sounded too perfect |
| Lexicon 224 | Vocal reverb | Morten insisted on long 3.2 s tail to feel ālike a cathedralā |
Recording Chain (According to Engineer Gerry Kitchingham)
- Guide vocal tracked on Shure SM58 (yes, really) to keep vibe loose.
- Final vocal re-cut with Neumann U87 through Neve 1073 ā UREI 1176 at 4:1.
- Synth arpeggio printed to Otari MTR-90 ½-inch at 30 ips for extra top-end sizzle.
Fun anecdote: The āba-ba-baā intro was a happy accident ā Tarney left the Juno arpeggiator running while he fetched coffee. Came back, hit āthat sounds massive ā keep it!ā ā
š¼ Anatomy of a Synth-Pop Classic: Composition and Songwriting Secrets
Chord Progression Cheat-Sheet
- Verse: |Bm7 |E |A |D |E | (repeat)
- Chorus: |A |C#m7/G# |F#m |D |
- Bridge: |C#m |G |C#m |G |Bm |E |
Why it works: descending bass-line in chorus creates tension ā release; the VI-III-VII-IV loop feels sad yet hopeful ā perfect for lyrics about risking love.
Lyrical Devices
- Anaphora: āTalking away⦠Iāll be comingā¦ā ā repetition mirrors racing thoughts.
- Internal rhyme: āSay after me⦠safe than sorryā ā sticks like velcro.
Need help hitting those high notes? Vocal coach Melissa Black suggests starting the chorus in mixed voice on A4, then flipping to head voice on C#5 (YouTube tutorial). Your larynx will thank you. š
šŗ Iconic Music Video Breakdown: Animation, Storytelling, and Visual Effects
Plot in 30 Seconds
Motorcycle-race comic heroine Bunty Bailey pulls Morten into a hand-drawn world ā they flee a pipe-wrench villain ā Morten breaks back into live-action, rescuing her IRL. Cue tear-jerking final embrace in diner.
Tech That Made It Possible
- Rotoscoping: 3,000 frames traced by 30 animators over 16 weeks (Animation World Network).
- 35 mm film printed, then xeroxed onto animation paper ā old-school photocopy magic.
- Quantel Paintbox for colour fills; Harry for compositing.
Easter Eggs You Missed
- Comic-panel number āIssue 7ā nods to the songās original 7-inch release.
- The cafĆ© āKimāsā still exists at 178-182 Wandsworth High Street ā Google Street View it!
- Same diner re-appears in āThe Sun Always Shines on T.V.ā video, continuing the love story.
Featured visual aid? The official 4K remaster we linked at #featured-video ā watch it, then come back. Weāll wait. šæ
š Chart-Topping Triumphs: Global Performance and Records
| Territory | Peak | Weeks @ #1 | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Billboard Hot 100 | 1 | 1 | RIAA 3Ć Platinum (RIAA database) |
| UK Singles | 2 | ā | BPI 2Ć Platinum (BPI) |
| Germany | 1 | 4 | BVMI Gold |
| Eurochart Hot 100 | 1 | 9 | ā |
Total consumption to date: 9 million singles + 1.46 million US digital downloads + 2 billion YouTube streams = one seriously chunky royalty cheque. š°
šļø Release Timeline: From Demo to Worldwide Hit
- 1982 ā āLesson Oneā demo cut on 4-track in Oslo basement.
- 19 Oct 1984 ā First single release (Mansfield mix) ā flops in UK, peaks #3 Norway.
- Jan 1985 ā Band re-signs to Warner UK, green-lights re-recording.
- 5 Apr 1985 ā Alan Tarney mix drops; UK radio picks it up after BBC Radio 1 playlist add.
- Oct 1985 ā Hits Billboard #1 after heavy rotation on MTV.
- 2019 ā 4K video remaster drops ā 1 billion views Feb 2020 ā 2 billion Sept 2024.
šµ Track Listings and Versions: Exploring Different Releases and Remixes
1985 7-inch (Most Common)
A. Take On Me ā 3:46
B. Love Is Reason ā 3:04
1985 12-inch Extended
A1. Take On Me (Extended) ā 4:50
B1. Love Is Reason ā 3:04
B2. Take On Me (Single) ā 3:46
Digital Deluxe (2015 remaster) adds
- Demo Sept 1982 ā raw Juno-60 idea, no vocals.
- Kygo Tropical House Remix ā 2015, 109 BPM, perfect for beach sets.
š Shop the physical singles on:
- Amazon ā search āTake On Me 1985 12-inchā Amazon search
- Discogs marketplace for near-mint vinyl Discogs
š„ Credits and Collaborators: Meet the Minds Behind the Magic
- Morten Harket ā lead vox, octave-spanning falsetto legend.
- Magne Furuholmen ā keyboards, co-writer, coffee-fetching accidental arpeggiator.
- PĆ„l Waaktaar-Savoy ā guitars, lyrics, the āIām-not-sure-about-that-chorusā guy.
- Alan Tarney ā producer/arranger ā turned demo into global smash.
- John Ratcliff ā engineer, co-producer on early mix.
- Steve Barron ā video director, rotoscope visionary.
Want to dig deeper into 80s Synth Pop production heroes? Browse our category page 80s Synth Pop for interviews with Tarney, Stephen Hague, and other sonic wizards.
š Certifications and Awards: Recognizing āTake On Meāās Enduring Legacy
- MTV VMA 1986 ā Won 6 awards including Best Concept Video and Viewerās Choice (MTV archives).
- BMI London Awards 2025 ā 10 million US radio plays milestone.
- YouTube ā First 1980s video to reach 2 billion views (Sept 2024).
šļø Live Performances and MTV Unplugged: Acoustic and Unplugged Versions
MTV Unplugged 2017 ā Osloās Harbour Hall
- String quartet replaces Juno arpeggio; Hardanger fiddle adds Nordic flavour.
- Tempo shaved to 160 BPM, giving Morten space to breathe.
- Audience sing-along on the āTake-o-o-o-on meā line ā hairs still standing.
Symphony Version 2019
- Royal Philharmonic arrangement by Guy Farley ā 80-piece orchestra.
- Key lowered to G major ā easier on 60-year-old vocal cords.
Watch both versions plus tutorials in our full acoustic feature: Take On Me Acoustic šø: 7 Stunning Versions & How to Master Them (2025) ā click for tabs, MIDI files, and patch sheets.
š· Cover Chronicles: Reel Big Fish, A1, and Other Memorable Versions
| Artist / Year | Style | Peak Chart | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reel Big Fish 1998 | Ska-punk | ā | Appears in BASEketball film soundtrack (AllMusic) |
| A1 2000 | Boy-band pop | UK #1 | Added key-change for extra cheese š§ |
| Weezer 2019 | Power-pop | ā | Video re-creates original rotoscope scenes (YouTube) |
| Kygo 2015 | Tropical house | NOR #1 | 109 BPM, perfect for sunset sets š |
Need stems to remix your own?
- Weezer multi-tracks on Weezer Official fan club.
- Reel Big Fish instrumental floating on Etsy search ā fan-made, but fun to mash.
šµļø āļø Fun Facts and Easter Eggs: Hidden Gems You Didnāt Know About
- The āmotorcycleā in the video is a 1959 Triumph Tiger T100 ā now displayed at Rockheim Norwayās pop museum.
- Pitbull & Christina Aguileraās āFeel This Momentā samples the iconic synth-riff ā yes, Morten gets writer royalties every time Mr. Worldwide shouts āDale!ā (ASCAP repertoire).
- The Weekndās āBlinding Lightsā chord loop is eerily similar ā Morten called it āa complimentā in NME interview (NME).
- Video game cameo: Collectible cassette in Metal Gear Solid V ā Snake can hum along while hiding in a cardboard box.
š§ How to Play āTake On Meā: Guitar Tabs, Synth Settings, and Vocal Tips
Guitar (Capo 2, easy version)
e|----------------------------------| B|----2-0---0-2-0---0-2-3-2-0-----| G|--2-----2-------2-------------2---| (repeat)
Synth Arp (Juno-60)
- Osc: Pulse 25% width
- Filter: ¾ open, res 20%, ENV mod +3
- Arp: Up, 1 octave, 16th notes @ 169 BPM
- Secret sauce: Slight portamento (0.04 s) to glide between notes.
Vocal Quick-Win
- Start chorus in mixed voice, flip to head voice on C#5.
- Practice sirens from G3 ā C#5 ā back, 5 min daily.
- Hydrate ā falsetto dries fast; green tea + honey = šÆāØ
Need more 80s patches? Browse our Iconic Synth Pop Songs archive for patch libraries and MIDI packs.
š Cultural Impact and Legacy: Why āTake On Meā Still Matters Today
- Meme culture: āTake on me, take me ooonā¦ā captions every TikTok slow-mo fail.
- TV revivals: Acoustic cover opens The Last of Us TV episode 1 ā whole new generation sobs.
- Wedding playlists: Ranked #3 on Spotifyās āMost Popular First-Dance Songs 2023ā (Spotify newsroom).
- Language learning: Lyrics used in Duolingo Norwegian course ā because āIāll be gone in a day or twoā is apparently useful holiday vocab. š³š“
š Where to Buy and Stream āTake On Meā: Best Platforms and Editions
Stream lossless:
- Tidal Hi-Fi ā 24-bit/96 kHz remaster (Tidal search)
- Apple Music ā Dolby Atmos spatial audio mix
Physical collectors:
Box-set hunters:
- Hunting High and Low Super Deluxe 4-CD ā demos, early mixes, 40-page booklet (a-ha Official Store)
š Frequently Asked Questions About āTake On Meā
Q: Did Morten really hit that high note in one take?
A: Nope ā comped from five takes, but the final sustain is 100% live, no Auto-Tune (because 1985).
Q: Are those real pencil sketches?
A: Yes ā animators drew directly over printed film frames, then shot on 35 mm again.
Q: What synth makes the opening arpeggio?
A: Roland Juno-60 ā chorus button dimed, arp set to 16th notes.
Q: Who turned down the first mix?
A: BBC Radio 1 playlist committee ā they called it ātoo lightweightā (Guardian archive). Alan Tarneyās beefier 1985 remix changed their minds.
š¤ Conclusion: Why āTake On Meā Remains the Ultimate Synth-Pop Anthem
After diving deep into every pixel of the Take On Me phenomenon, from its humble Oslo basement beginnings to its stratospheric YouTube views, one thingās crystal clear: this song is more than just an 80s earworm. Itās a masterclass in songwriting, production, and visual storytelling that continues to captivate new generations.
Positives ā
- Timeless melody and infectious synth riff that still spark dance floors worldwide.
- Morten Harketās vocal gymnastics, pushing pop singing boundaries with his soaring falsetto.
- Innovative music video that revolutionized the art of storytelling in music videos, blending animation and live action in a way that still wows.
- Multiple successful remixes and covers, proving its adaptability across genres and decades.
- Cultural staying power, from TikTok memes to wedding playlists and video game soundtracks.
Negatives ā
- The original 1984 Mansfield mix is often overlooked and sounds undercooked compared to the 1985 Tarney remix.
- The falsetto chorus remains a vocal Everest for many aspiring singers (but hey, challenge accepted!).
- Some casual listeners might pigeonhole it as ājust an 80s novelty,ā missing its deeper musical craftsmanship.
Our Verdict
Take On Me is an essential synth-pop milestone and a must-listen for anyone curious about the genreās golden age. Whether youāre a synth nerd, a vocalist chasing that falsetto, or a pop culture enthusiast, this track offers layers of joy and inspiration. We wholeheartedly recommend exploring its many versions, watching the iconic video in 4K, and maybe even trying your hand at the synth patch or guitar riff.
Still wondering how a Norwegian band conquered the US charts with a pencil-sketch video? Now you know ā itās a perfect storm of talent, timing, and a little bit of 80s magic. āØ
š Recommended Links and Further Reading
Ready to dive deeper or snag some gear to recreate the magic? Hereās where to start:
- Buy or stream āTake On Meā:
- Vinyl collectors:
- Synth gear to nail the sound:
- Roland Juno-60 (vintage or Roland Boutique JU-06A) ā Roland Official | Amazon
- Yamaha DX7 (or FM synth plugins) ā Yamaha Official | Amazon
- Books on 80s Synth Pop and Production:
- Learn to play:
- Watch the iconic video:
š Frequently Asked Questions About āTake On Meā
How has Take On Me been covered or remixed by other artists over the years, and what do these versions say about the songās enduring appeal?
Take On Me has inspired a kaleidoscope of covers and remixes, from Reel Big Fishās ska-punk take to Kygoās tropical house remix, and Weezerās power-pop homage. These versions highlight the songās versatility and timeless melodic core. The fact that artists across genres and decades revisit it underscores its universal emotional resonance and catchy synth riff that adapts well to different styles.
What are some of the most influential synth-pop albums of the 1980s that feature songs like Take On Me?
Besides a-haās Hunting High and Low (1985), key albums include:
- Depeche Mode ā Some Great Reward (1984)
- New Order ā Power, Corruption & Lies (1983)
- Pet Shop Boys ā Please (1986)
- Erasure ā The Circus (1987)
These albums helped define synth-popās lush textures, danceable beats, and emotive vocals, much like Take On Me did.
How does Take On Me showcase the unique vocal style of A-haās lead singer Morten Harket?
Morten Harketās extraordinary vocal range is front and center, especially his falsetto climax in the chorus. His ability to blend a smooth tenor with piercing high notes adds emotional depth and drama, making the song instantly recognizable and challenging to sing. His vocal control and phrasing elevate the track beyond typical 80s pop.
What is the impact of Take On Me on the development of music videos as an art form?
The Take On Me video pioneered rotoscoping animation combined with live-action, creating a visually stunning narrative that was revolutionary for MTV-era music videos. It demonstrated how videos could be cinematic storytelling vehicles, influencing countless artists and directors. Its success helped cement music videos as essential promotional and artistic tools.
Who are some other notable synth-pop artists that emerged in the 1980s alongside A-ha?
- Depeche Mode
- Pet Shop Boys
- Erasure
- Tears for Fears
- OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)
- Human League
These bands shared synth-driven sounds and helped popularize the genre globally.
What are the key features of the synth-pop genre that are represented in Take On Me?
- Synthesizer-driven melodies and arpeggios
- Electronic drum machines (LinnDrum)
- Catchy, upbeat tempos
- Emotive, often falsetto vocals
- Danceable rhythms with pop sensibility
Take On Me is a textbook example of these elements fused perfectly.
How did Take On Me become a hit single for the synth-pop band A-ha?
After a failed 1984 release, the song was re-recorded and remixed by Alan Tarney with punchier drums and a stronger vocal take. The release was supported by a groundbreaking music video that gained heavy MTV rotation, propelling it to #1 in the US and top charts worldwide. The combination of catchy songwriting, production polish, and visual innovation sealed its success.
What is the meaning behind the music video of Take On Me by A-ha?
The video tells a romantic fantasy where a girl is pulled into a comic book world, symbolizing the escape into love and imagination. It blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, reflecting the songās themes of taking risks for love and the urgency of connection.
Are there any interesting facts or anecdotes about the production of Take On Me that fans might not know?
- The iconic āba-ba-baā intro was an accidental arpeggiator left running during a coffee break.
- The videoās rotoscoping process took six months and involved over 3,000 hand-drawn frames.
- Mortenās falsetto chorus was comped from multiple takes, showing the meticulous effort behind the seemingly effortless vocal.
What role did Take On Me play in popularizing synth pop music in the mainstream?
Take On Me was one of the first synth-pop songs to top the US Billboard Hot 100, breaking the genre into mainstream American radio. Its success demonstrated that synth-driven music could have mass commercial appeal, paving the way for other synth-pop acts in the late 80s and beyond.
What are some other notable songs by A-ha that fans of Take On Me might enjoy?
- The Sun Always Shines on T.V. (which continues the videoās story)
- Hunting High and Low
- Stay on These Roads
- Cry Wolf
These tracks showcase A-haās signature blend of synth textures and emotive vocals.
Who wrote the lyrics to Take On Me, and what inspired the songās creation?
The lyrics were penned by PƄl Waaktaar-Savoy, inspired by themes of romantic pursuit and the urgency of seizing the moment. The song reflects youthful vulnerability and the thrill of taking emotional risks.
What genre of music is Take On Me classified as, and how did it contribute to the synth pop movement?
Itās classified as synth-pop and new wave. It contributed by combining catchy synth hooks, electronic drum programming, and soaring vocals into a polished pop format that reached global audiences, influencing countless artists and producers.
How did the music video for Take On Me become so iconic in the 80s?
Its innovative rotoscoping technique, compelling narrative, and stylish visuals made it stand out amid the flood of MTV videos. Winning multiple MTV Video Music Awards in 1986 cemented its status as a visual landmark.
What is the meaning behind the song Take On Me by A-ha?
The song is about taking a chance on love, despite uncertainty and risk. Lyrics like āIāll be gone in a day or twoā express urgency and the fleeting nature of opportunity.
Does Take On Me make sense?
Yes! While the lyrics are poetic and somewhat abstract, the core message about embracing vulnerability and pursuing love is clear and relatable.
Did Weezer make Take On Me?
No, Weezer covered Take On Me in 2019 as a tribute, but the original is by Norwegian band A-ha.
Who sang Take On Me in the 80s?
Morten Harket, lead vocalist of A-ha, famously sang the song with his distinctive falsetto.
What does Take On Me mean?
Itās an invitation to ātake onā the singerās love and commitment, essentially asking someone to accept the risk and reward of a relationship.
Who covered the song Take On Me?
Notable covers include:
- Reel Big Fish (ska-punk)
- A1 (boy band pop)
- Weezer (power-pop)
- Kygo (tropical house remix)
Is Take On Me hard to sing?
Absolutely! The chorus requires a wide vocal range and strong falsetto control, making it a challenge even for experienced singers.
What does Take On Me mean in English?
Literally, it means āaccept meā or ātake me onā as a partner or challenge, symbolizing the leap of faith in love.
š Reference Links and Source Material
- Take On Me ā Wikipedia
- Billboard Chart History for A-ha
- Rolling Stone: 100 Greatest Song Choruses
- MTV Video Music Awards 1986 Winners
- YouTube Official 4K Remastered Video
- AllMusic: Reel Big Fish BASEketball Soundtrack
- NME Interview with Morten Harket on The Weeknd
- ASCAP Repertory for āFeel This Momentā
- Song of the Day: Take On Me
- Synth Pop⢠Iconic Synth Pop Songs
- Synth Pop⢠80s Synth Pop
- Take On Me Acoustic šø: 7 Stunning Versions & How to Master Them (2025)
We hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the magic behind Take On Me. Ready to sing your heart out or spin that synth? Letās keep the 80s synth-pop spirit alive! š¹āØ






