Take On Me Remix: 7 Must-Hear Versions That Redefine a Classic 🎶 (2025)

Few songs have the staying power of a-ha’s “Take On Me,” and its remixes? Oh, they’re a whole other story. From Kygo’s tropical house reinvention that brought the synth-pop anthem to festival stages worldwide, to ska-punk chaos and underground fan edits, the “Take On Me” remix universe is as vibrant and diverse as the original’s iconic riff is unforgettable. Did you know the original music video took 16 weeks of rotoscoping to create? That same dedication to craft echoes in every remix that dares to reimagine this classic.

In this article, we’ll explore the history behind the song’s enduring appeal, break down the best remixes you absolutely need to hear, and even guide you on how to create your own remix masterpiece. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a budding producer, get ready to dive deep into the synth-pop remix phenomenon that keeps “Take On Me” alive and kicking in 2025 and beyond.

Key Takeaways

  • “Take On Me” remains a synth-pop icon thanks to its soaring vocals and unforgettable synth riff, inspiring countless remixes across genres.
  • Kygo’s 2015 tropical house remix is the standout modern reinterpretation, blending nostalgia with fresh, laid-back vibes.
  • The song’s versatility shines through in diverse versions—from ska-punk covers by Reel Big Fish to hard-hitting EDM festival remixes.
  • Remixing this classic requires balancing respect for the original vocals with creative innovation in instrumentation and rhythm.
  • Aspiring remixers can start their journey with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro X and access stems or acapellas online.
  • “Take On Me” continues to influence pop culture, appearing in video games, movies, and inspiring new generations of artists.

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Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Decoding the “Take On Me” Remix Phenomenon

Welcome, synth-pop lovers, to the Synth Pop™ deep dive! Today, we’re tackling a track that’s more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has been reimagined time and time again: a-ha’s “Take On Me.” Before we get lost in the dreamy synth waves and soaring falsettos, let’s get you up to speed. The world of the Take On Me remix is vast and varied, a testament to the original’s timeless appeal.

Here at Synth Pop™, we’ve spent countless hours dancing, debating, and deconstructing every version we can get our hands on. Why does this one song inspire so much creativity? Let’s lay down some foundational facts.

Quick Fact 🧐 The Lowdown 🎶 –
Original Release The hit version we all know and love was released in 1985, but an earlier version was actually recorded and released in 1984 with a different production that failed to chart. –
The Iconic Video The music video’s distinctive pencil-sketch look was achieved using a technique called rotoscoping, where animators traced over live-action footage frame by frame. It took 16 weeks to trace approximately 3,000 frames! –
Most Famous Remix Norwegian DJ Kygo’s 2015 tropical house remix is arguably the most famous modern interpretation. It introduced the classic to a new generation of fans and has amassed millions of streams. –
Genre-Bending Covers The song’s structure is so strong it works across genres. Ska-punk legends Reel Big Fish turned it into a high-energy anthem in 1998, while Weezer gave it a rock makeover on their 2019 Teal Album. –
Pop Culture Power Beyond official remixes, the song is a pop culture staple. It created a deeply emotional moment in the video game The Last of Us Part II and its TV adaptation, and has been featured in movies like Deadpool 2 and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

🕰️ The Genesis of a Synth-Pop Anthem: A-ha’s “Take On Me” Story


Video: A ha – Take on me (Ready Player One) Tribute Remix | Extended |.








To truly appreciate the remixes, you have to understand the lightning in a bottle that was the original. It wasn’t an overnight success! A-ha, a trio of Norwegian heartthrobs, actually released “Take On Me” twice. The first version from 1984, produced by Tony Mansfield, was a bit darker and failed to make a splash outside of their home country. But they knew they had something special. They re-recorded it with producer Alan Tarney, who helped create the cleaner, more soaring sound that became a global phenomenon in 1985.

The Original Magic: Why A-ha’s “Take On Me” Still Captivates

So, what’s the secret sauce? First, you have that unforgettable, bubbling synth riff. It’s pure, unadulterated joy, played on iconic keyboards like the Roland Juno-60 and Yamaha DX7. Then there’s Morten Harket’s incredible vocal performance. His voice glides effortlessly from a warm, resonant verse to that breathtaking, sky-high falsetto in the chorus. It’s a vocal performance that has been described as “one of the hardest-to-sing choruses in pop history.” This track is a masterclass in 80s Synth Pop production.

Beyond the Beat: The Iconic Rotoscoped Music Video’s Enduring Impact

You can’t talk about “Take On Me” without gushing over the music video. Seriously, it’s a work of art. Director Steve Barron had the genius idea to use rotoscoping, a painstaking animation technique where artists trace over live-action footage. This created the video’s signature comic-book-come-to-life aesthetic, where a woman is pulled into a black-and-white illustrated world.

The video was a sensation on MTV, winning six awards at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards. Its legacy is staggering; in February 2020, it became one of the very few videos from the 20th century to hit one billion views on YouTube, and it has since surpassed two billion! It’s a perfect marriage of music and visuals that cemented the song’s place in history.

🎧 Unpacking the “Take On Me” Remix Revolution: Why Reinterpret a Classic?


Video: A-Ah – Take On Me (Diogo Costa Remix).








Why has this song, out of all the incredible tracks from the 80s, become such a playground for remixers? Is it a challenge? A tribute? Or just plain fun? We think it’s a mix of all three. The core elements are just so strong that they can be twisted, reshaped, and recontextualized without losing their essence.

The Art of Reimagination: What Drives “Take On Me” Remixes?

For a producer, remixing “Take On Me” is like being handed the keys to a vintage Ferrari. The engine (that synth riff) and the chassis (the chord progression and vocals) are already perfect. The job is to give it a new paint job, upgrade the interiors, and see how it handles on a modern track. It’s a way for artists to pay homage to one of the most Iconic Synth Pop Songs while showcasing their own unique sound and production skills. It’s the ultimate test: can you make a classic your own without breaking what made it special?

From 80s Echoes to Modern Beats: The Evolution of “Take On Me” Remix Styles

The journey of the “Take On Me” remix mirrors the evolution of electronic music itself. In the 80s and 90s, you had extended dance mixes, common for the time. Then came the genre-flipping covers, like Reel Big Fish’s ska-punk explosion. Fast forward to the 2010s, and you get Kygo’s tropical house version, which completely reimagined the song’s vibe for the EDM festival generation. Today, you’ll find everything from hardstyle and trance versions to lo-fi hip-hop flips across YouTube and SoundCloud. It’s a song that refuses to be pinned down to one era or style.

🏆 Our Top Picks: Essential “Take On Me” Remixes You Can’t Miss!


Video: a-ha – Take On Me (DJ KaktuZ Remix) 💥💃🎆 shuffle dance mix.







Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. We’ve argued, we’ve danced, and we’ve probably annoyed our neighbors, all to bring you our definitive list of must-hear “Take On Me” remixes.

1. Kygo’s Tropical House Masterpiece: A Fresh Spin on a Classic 🌴

There’s no other place to start. When Norwegian DJ Kygo dropped his remix in 2015, it was a game-changer. Instead of leaning on the original’s famous synth riff, he built a new, sun-drenched world around Morten Harket’s vocals.

What makes it great?

  • The Vibe: It’s pure bliss. Kygo swaps the frantic energy of the original for a laid-back, poolside feel, complete with his signature melodic piano and pan flute sounds.
  • Vocal Treatment: He masterfully chops and processes Harket’s vocals, using them as both a lead instrument and a textural element. It’s respectful yet innovative. ✅
  • The Drop: It’s a gentle, euphoric release of energy that feels like the sun breaking through the clouds. It’s less of a “drop” and more of a “lift.”

This remix proved that you could fundamentally change the instrumental of “Take On Me” and still have it be instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant. It’s a modern classic in its own right.

👉 Shop Kygo on:

2. Other Standout Remixes: Diverse Interpretations of “Take On Me”

Beyond Kygo, there’s a whole universe of official and unofficial remixes that take the song in wildly different directions.

  • Reel Big Fish (1998): This isn’t a remix, but a full-blown ska-punk cover, and it’s glorious chaos. They trade synths for a triumphant horn section and inject a dose of frenetic, mosh-pit energy. It’s loud, it’s fun, and it’s scientifically impossible to listen to without wanting to skank around your room. ✅
  • A1 (2000): The boy band A1 delivered a faithful, high-energy pop version that topped the charts in the UK. It’s a note-for-note homage that brought the song to a new, younger audience at the turn of the millennium. ❌ While commercially successful, some critics found it to be a “lame cover version.”
  • Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike vs. Ummet Ozcan: For those who like their beats hard and their synths super-sized, this festival-ready banger is a must. The embedded #featured-video above gives you a taste of its high-octane energy.

3. Deep Cuts and Fan Favorites: Unearthing Hidden Remix Gems

This is where the real fun begins. Dive into the depths of YouTube and SoundCloud, and you’ll find a treasure trove of bootlegs and fan-made edits. This is where you find the truly unexpected, from 8-bit chiptune versions to dark, atmospheric techno interpretations. It’s a testament to the song’s power that it inspires so many creators who aren’t bound by official releases. It’s a perfect example of content you might find in our None of the above category, where we celebrate the weird and wonderful.

🛠️ The Craft of Remixing: What Makes a “Take On Me” Remix Truly Shine?


Video: Take on Me (Kygo Remix).








So, you’re feeling inspired? Thinking of taking on “Take On Me” yourself? Hold on there, synth-maestro. Remixing a song this iconic is a delicate dance. You’re walking a tightrope between paying tribute and creating something new.

Balancing Homage and Innovation: The Remixer’s Dilemma

The biggest challenge is deciding what to keep and what to change.

  • Keep the Vocals? ✅ Almost always. Morten Harket’s performance is the soul of the song. Most successful remixes keep the vocals largely intact.
  • Use the Riff? 🤔 This is the big question. Kygo famously built his remix without the main synth line. Others build their entire track around it. There’s no right answer, but your choice here will define your remix.
  • Change the Vibe? ✅ Absolutely. The best remixes offer a new emotional context. Turn its hopeful energy into melancholy, or its pop brightness into something dark and driving.

Key Ingredients for a Successful Synth-Pop Remix

Ingredient Why It’s Crucial –
Respect the Melody The vocal melody is iconic. Even if you change the chords underneath, that soaring chorus needs to be recognizable. It’s the emotional core. –
Solid Groove Whether it’s a house beat, a breakbeat, or a trap rhythm, the foundation has to be solid. The original has a driving 169 BPM synth-pop rhythm; your version needs its own compelling pulse. –
Creative Spark Don’t just put a new drum loop under the original. What’s your take? Is it a dark, brooding techno track? A sparkling future bass anthem? A stripped-down acoustic ballad? Surprise us! –

🎶 Your Remix Journey: Creating Your Own “Take On Me” Reimagination


Video: Mia Amare & Sarah Bird – Take On Me (Official Girlspower Video).








Feeling that creative spark? Awesome! Making your own remix has never been more accessible. You don’t need a million-dollar studio anymore; a laptop and some creativity can go a long way.

Essential Tools and Software for Aspiring Remixers

To get started, you’ll need a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). This is the software that acts as your virtual studio. Here are the most popular choices for remixing:

  • Ableton Live: Our top pick for remixing! Its “Session View” is perfect for experimenting with loops and song structure in a non-linear way, making it incredibly intuitive for building a remix from the ground up.
  • FL Studio: Known for its powerful piano roll and pattern-based workflow, FL Studio (once known as FruityLoops) is a favorite among hip-hop and EDM producers. It also offers lifetime free updates, which is a huge plus!
  • Logic Pro X: If you’re on a Mac, Logic Pro is a powerhouse DAW with a massive library of sounds and professional tools for a very reasonable price.

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Tips for Sampling, Production, and Adding Your Unique Flair

  1. Find Your Stems: The first step is to get the isolated parts of the song (vocals, synths, etc.), known as “stems” or an “acapella” (vocals only). Websites like YouTube and dedicated remix communities are good places to look. Some modern DAWs like RipX DAW and DJ.Studio even use AI to help separate stems from a full track.
  2. Set the Tempo: Don’t be afraid to change the speed! Slowing it down can create a more emotional, cinematic feel. Speeding it up can create a high-energy dance track.
  3. Build a New Foundation: Mute the original instruments and start building your own chords and bassline around the vocals. This is where you establish your unique harmonic take on the song.
  4. Get Creative with Effects: Use reverb to create space, delay to add rhythm, and filters to build tension and release. Don’t just copy the original production—make it your own!

🌐 “Take On Me” Beyond the Remix: Its Enduring Pop Culture Footprint


Video: A-ha – Take On Me (MK Remix / 2023).








The influence of “Take On Me” extends far beyond the world of DJ remixes. The song has been lovingly adopted, parodied, and paid tribute to across all forms of media, proving its universal appeal.

Iconic Covers, Tributes, and Parodies

We’ve already shouted out the fantastic Reel Big Fish and Weezer covers, but the list goes on!

  • Weezer’s 2019 cover was accompanied by a meta music video starring Finn Wolfhard (Stranger Things) and his band Calpurnia, paying tribute to the original’s 80s vibe.
  • Pitbull’s 2013 hit “Feel This Moment” featuring Christina Aguilera heavily samples the iconic synth riff, bringing the sound to the mainstream pop charts once again.
  • The song has been covered by artists as diverse as the British-Norwegian boyband A1 and was even featured in the movie La La Land.

From Silver Screen to Gaming Consoles: “Take On Me” in Media

The song’s emotional power has made it a go-to for creating memorable moments in film, TV, and video games.

  • The Last of Us: Perhaps the most poignant recent use of the song is in the critically acclaimed video game The Last of Us Part II and the subsequent HBO TV series. A tender, acoustic performance of the song by Ellie becomes a crucial, heart-wrenching part of her story. The creators specifically chose the song for its emotional weight and how it could reveal and change the characters’ relationships.
  • Movies & TV: It’s popped up everywhere! An acoustic version was used for a gag in Deadpool 2. It’s been in Despicable Me 3, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and countless TV shows that need a perfect hit of 80s nostalgia.

🔮 The Future of a Classic: Will “Take On Me” Remixes Continue to Evolve?


Video: Take On Me 80’s Mix.







So, what’s next for “Take On Me”? Will we still be hearing new versions in another 40 years? We’re betting on a resounding YES. ✅

As music production technology evolves, so will the ways artists can reinterpret this classic. We’re already seeing AI-powered tools that can deconstruct and reimagine songs in ways that were once impossible. New genres will emerge, and with them, new producers who will want to put their own stamp on one of the most perfect pop songs ever written. The story of the “Take On Me” remix is far from over. It’s a conversation between generations of musicians, a continuous loop of inspiration that, much like the song’s iconic riff, shows no signs of fading away. What do you think the next big “Take On Me” remix will sound like?

🎉 Conclusion: Our Final Synth-Sational Thoughts on the “Take On Me” Remix Phenomenon

people inside concert ground at night

Wow, what a journey! From the original 1985 synth-pop masterpiece by a-ha to Kygo’s tropical house reinvention and beyond, “Take On Me” has proven itself to be a truly timeless canvas for musical creativity. Whether it’s the iconic rotoscoped video, Morten Harket’s soaring vocals, or that unforgettable synth riff, this song continues to inspire remixers and fans alike across generations.

What makes a “Take On Me” remix truly shine? It’s the delicate balance of respecting the original’s emotional core—especially the vocals—while injecting fresh energy and innovation. Kygo’s remix showed us that even without the classic synth riff, the song’s heart can beat anew in a completely different style. Meanwhile, covers like Reel Big Fish’s ska-punk take remind us how versatile the song’s structure is.

For aspiring remixers, the path is clear: honor the melody, build a solid groove, and don’t be afraid to add your own creative spark. The tools are at your fingertips, and the legacy of “Take On Me” offers a rich playground to explore.

So, will the remix story continue? Absolutely! As music technology evolves and new genres emerge, “Take On Me” will keep echoing through speakers worldwide, reinvented and reimagined for decades to come. What will the next remix sound like? That’s the exciting mystery we get to watch unfold.

Ready to dive deeper or start your own remix journey? We’ve got you covered below!

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Recommended Reading:

  • Synthesizer Evolution: From Analogue to Digital (Second Edition) by Oli Freke — A deep dive into the instruments that shaped synth pop.
  • The History of Electronic Music by Mark J. Butler — Contextualizes synth pop within the broader electronic music landscape.
  • How to Make Electronic Music by Andrew Huang — Great for aspiring remixers wanting hands-on guidance.

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About “Take On Me” Remixes Answered

a blurry image of a square shaped object

Answer: The 80s were the golden era of synth pop, and many tracks were remixed for club play and radio edits. While official remixes were less common than today, extended dance versions and re-edits were popular. For example, artists like Depeche Mode and New Order had iconic remixes that pushed synth pop into dance floors. “Take On Me” itself saw multiple versions before the 1985 hit, including a Tony Mansfield-produced 1984 version. Modern remixes often pay homage to this era by incorporating vintage synth sounds and drum machines like the Roland TR-808.

Read more about “🎥 The Untold Story of the “Take on Me” Movie Phenomenon (2025)”

How has the song “Take On Me” influenced the synth pop genre?

Answer: “Take On Me” is a synth pop milestone due to its blend of catchy synth melodies, dynamic vocal range, and innovative production techniques. It helped popularize the use of synthesizers like the Yamaha DX7 and Roland Juno-60 in mainstream pop. Its success opened doors for other synth-driven acts and demonstrated how electronic music could achieve massive commercial appeal. The song’s iconic video also set a new standard for visual storytelling in music, influencing how synth pop was marketed globally.

Read more about “Who Covered the Song “Take On Me”? 🎤 15 Epic Versions You Must Hear (2025)”

What are some notable remixes of “Take On Me” by A-ha?

Answer: The most notable remix is the 2015 tropical house version by Norwegian DJ Kygo, which reimagined the song for a new generation with a laid-back, melodic vibe. Other notable versions include the ska-punk cover by Reel Big Fish (1998) and the boy band A1’s pop cover (2000). Additionally, many unofficial remixes span genres from trance to lo-fi hip-hop, reflecting the song’s versatility.

Read more about “What Does “Take On Me” Mean in English? 🎤 7 Surprising Insights (2025)”

Can I find a remix of “Take On Me” with a modern synth pop twist?

Answer: Absolutely! Many producers on platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube have created modern synth pop remixes that update the classic with contemporary production techniques—think lush pads, punchy drums, and polished vocal processing. Kygo’s remix, while tropical house, also incorporates synth pop elements. For more curated selections, check out Synth Pop™’s Iconic Synth Pop Songs category.

Are there any electronic dance music remixes of “Take On Me” available?

Answer: Yes! Besides Kygo’s tropical house remix, there are numerous EDM remixes ranging from trance to progressive house. Festival DJs like Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike have also created high-energy versions. These remixes often emphasize big drops, driving beats, and synth arpeggios, making “Take On Me” a dance floor staple decades after its release.

How do I create my own synth pop remix of a classic song like “Take On Me”?

Answer: Start by obtaining the song’s stems or acapella. Use a DAW like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro X to build your remix. Focus on preserving the vocal melody while crafting new synth lines and beats that reflect your style. Experiment with tempo and effects to create a fresh vibe. Our guide above offers detailed tips and recommended tools to get you started.

What are some other classic synth pop songs that have been remixed in recent years?

Answer: Classics like Depeche Mode’s “Enjoy the Silence,” New Order’s “Blue Monday,” and Pet Shop Boys’ “West End Girls” have all seen modern remixes. These songs, like “Take On Me,” feature strong melodies and iconic synth lines that lend themselves well to reinterpretation across genres, from deep house to synthwave.

Ready to remix your own slice of synth-pop history? Dive in, experiment, and maybe your version of “Take On Me” will be the next big hit! 🎹✨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a music producer and award-winning sound designer leading the editorial vision at Synth Pop™, the destination for news, insights, and recommendations across synth-pop and electronic music. He oversees artist features, concert and tour coverage, deep-dive histories, and playlist-ready song spotlights—bringing a studio-honed ear to every story and championing the next wave alongside the icons.

In the studio, Jacob crafts records and immersive soundscapes for film, games, and interactive experiences; in the magazine, he translates that same precision into clear, gear-savvy writing that helps listeners hear what makes a track tick—arrangement, synthesis, and mix decisions included. When he’s not editing or producing, you’ll find him digging for rare drum machines, designing chorus-soaked patches, or scouting emerging scenes for tomorrow’s headliners.

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