a-ha
One of the most successful Norwegian musical acts, a-ha has been active since 1982, amassing a global fan base and racking up millions of record sales along the way. The band, consisting of members Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar, began as a synth-pop group, originally formed in Oslo. Over the course of their nearly 40-year career, a-ha has released ten studio albums and has been praised for their unique sound, which blends Harket's soaring vocals with distinctive synth-driven instrumentation. Their single "Take On Me" is likely their most well-known song, with its infectious chorus and innovative, pencil-sketch animation music video, but they've also enjoyed great success with hits like "The Sun Always Shines On TV" and "The Living Daylights".
About a-ha
a-ha's roots can be traced back to 1982, when Harket was recruited by Furuholmen to join a fledgling synth-pop band that Waaktaar had recently started. Originally, the group was known simply as "Bridge" but later changed their name to a-ha after Harket saw the potential for a name in Waaktaar's notebook. In 1984, the band released their debut single, "Take On Me." While it performed modestly in the band's native Norway, the single became a global sensation in 1985, thanks in part to its groundbreaking, award-winning music video. The success of that single and its innovative accompanying visuals put a-ha squarely on the map and paved the way for a string of similarly successful hits and records.
Throughout much of their career, a-ha has been known for their distinctive sound, which often blends Harket's soaring vocals with the synth-driven instrumentation that is typical of many 80s pop bands. Their music has drawn praise for its unique sound, which feels both of its time and ahead of its time, and for its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. In the years since their breakthrough success in the 80s, the band has continued to release music and tour, amassing a dedicated following that stretches far beyond their native Norway.
Over the course of their career, a-ha has enjoyed a great deal of commercial success around the world. Their debut album, Hunting High and Low, peaked in the top 20 in twelve countries, while their follow-up albums, Scoundrel Days and Stay on These Roads, enjoyed similar chart success across Europe. While their popularity in the US waned over time, a-ha remained an influential force in the world of pop music and continued to deliver high-quality music long after their initial breakthrough in the 80s.
Despite experiencing some commercial ups and downs over the years, a-ha has remained one of the most beloved and enduring pop acts in music history. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of fans and artists alike, and they remain an important cultural touchstone for people around the world.
Today, a-ha continues to record and perform music, delighting old and new fans alike with their unique, synth-pop style and Harket's unforgettable vocals. With a career that has spanned several decades and garnered countless accolades and awards, they are truly one of the greats of modern pop music.