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A-ha (often stylised as a-ha; Norwegian pronunciation: [ɑˈhɑː]) are a Norwegian synth-pop band formed in Oslo in 1982. Founded by Paul Waaktaar-Savoy (guitars and vocals), Magne Furuholmen (keyboards, guitars and vocals), and Morten Harket (lead vocals), the band rose to fame during the mid-1980s.

Key Information

A-ha achieved their biggest success with their debut album Hunting High and Low in 1985. The album peaked at number one in their native Norway, number two in the UK, and number 15 on the US Billboard album chart; yielded the international number-one single "Take On Me", as well as "The Sun Always Shines on T.V."; and earned the band a Grammy Award nomination for Best New Artist. In the UK, Hunting High and Low continued its chart success into the following year, becoming one of the best-selling albums of 1986.[1][2] The band released studio albums in 1986, 1988, and 1990, with single hits including "Hunting High and Low", "The Living Daylights", "Stay on These Roads", and "Crying in the Rain". In 1994, after their fifth studio album, Memorial Beach (1993), failed to achieve the commercial success of their previous albums, the band went on hiatus.[3] Following a performance at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in 1998, A-ha recorded their sixth album, 2000's Minor Earth Major Sky, which was another number-one album in Norway and Germany. This album was followed by Lifelines (2002); Analogue (2005), which was certified Silver in the UK;[4] and Foot of the Mountain (2009), which was certified Silver in the UK and reached the top five in many European countries.[5]

The band split after their 2010 worldwide Ending on a High Note Tour,[3][6] but reunited in 2015 to release their tenth studio album, Cast in Steel.[7] They toured in support of the album and participated at Rock in Rio, which celebrated 30 years for both the band and the event.[8]

The band has released eleven studio albums, several compilations and four live albums,[9] with their most recent album, True North, released on 21 October 2022. In less than a year, during 2010, the band earned an estimated 500 million Norwegian kroner from concert tickets, merchandise and the release of a greatest hits album, making them one of the 40–50 highest-grossing bands in the world.[10] The band were listed in the Guinness World Records book for having the biggest-paying rock concert attendance; they drew an audience of 198,000 at Maracanã Stadium during the Rock in Rio festival. They have sold more than 100 million units, albums and singles combined.[11][12]

History

[edit]

Formation

[edit]
Original A-ha logo, used from 1985 to 1993 and since 2015.

The trio, composed of lead vocalist Morten Harket; guitarist Paul Waaktaar (then known as Pål Waaktaar); and keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, formed in 1982, and left Norway for London in order to make a career in music. "We were trying to think of what to call themselves, focusing on Norwegian words people could say in English." They jettisoned that idea when Morten spotted a song called "A-ha" in Waaktaar's songbook. "It was a terrible song but a great name," said Morten.[13]

They chose the studio of musician and producer John Ratcliff because it had a Space Invaders machine. He introduced them to his manager, Terry Slater,[14] and after a few meetings, A-ha enlisted both as managers. The two formed TJ Management,[15] with Ratcliff handling technical and musical matters, while Slater handled international business and served as liaison to Warner Bros. head office in Los Angeles.

Hunting High and Low (1984–1986)

[edit]

An early version of "Take On Me" was the first song that Harket had heard Furuholmen and Waaktaar play in Asker. At that time, the song was called "Miss Eerie" and the two men were still known as Bridges. Harket said it sounded more like a "Juicy Fruit song" (meaning a gum advertisement). A-ha's first recorded version was called "Lesson One". The song was then re-recorded, renamed "Take on Me", and released in 1984, when it was promoted with a video of the band performing in front of a blue background. After it failed to chart, the song was re-recorded with production by Alan Tarney; it again failed to chart. Finally, the song was re-released in 1985 with a new, groundbreaking video; this time, the song peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and at number two on the UK Singles Chart.[16][17]

a-ha became the first Norwegian band to have a number-one hit in the U.S. The popularity of "Take on Me" earned the band a spot on the American television series Soul Train in 1985, making them one of the few white artists to appear on the black music-oriented show. (Earlier Soul Train appearances by white artists included Gino Vanelli, Elton John, David Bowie, Hall & Oates, Sheena Easton, Pet Shop Boys, Michael McDonald, and Teena Marie.)

The video used a pencil-sketch animation/live-action combination called rotoscoping, in which individual frames of film are drawn over or coloured.[18] It became one of the most instantly recognizable and most enduringly popular music videos in the US, where it was nominated for eight awards at the third annual MTV Video Awards in 1986, winning six, including Best New Artist in a Video, Best Concept Video, Best Direction, Best Special Effects, Viewer's Choice and Best Video of the Year. Their six MTV Award wins for that video gave them twice as many wins as Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and more than any artist in the three years of the awards combined.

Publicity image of the band in 1984

The band's second single worldwide was "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.", even though "Love Is Reason" was the second single in Norway. In the US, the song peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reached number 17 on Radio & Records airplay chart. A remix version was a club hit, rising to number five on the Hot Dance Singles Sales chart.[16] The music video for the song was another popular and critical success, nominated at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards in three categories and winning two, Best Cinematography and Best Editing, bringing A-ha's total to 11 nominations and eight wins. The following year, Peter Gabriel would earn 13 nominations and win nine awards, also for two separate videos. In successive years, even as the award categories expanded, only a few artists have approached—and none have surpassed the single-year award totals of A-ha and Gabriel.

a-ha's American success culminated in their 1986 Grammy nomination in the Best New Artist category, which was eventually won by Sade. "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." turned out to be A-ha's last Hot 100 Top 40 single and to this day – in the United States – A-ha is remembered by the general public almost entirely because of "Take On Me".[16] As such, the band is frequently considered a one-hit wonder there, despite their two Top 40 hits. In the UK, where "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." has been their only number one,[17] A-ha enjoyed continued success with two more hit singles from the same album, "Train of Thought" and "Hunting High and Low" (with another innovative video), and remained popular throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.

The band's first album, 1985's Hunting High and Low, became a worldwide bestseller, spending most of October and November in the top 20 of Billboard's Top 200 album chart. The album and its four hit singles garnered international recognition for A-ha. Hunting High and Low earned triple platinum status in the UK and reached platinum status in the US and Germany, while earning gold in Brazil and the Netherlands.[4][19][20][21] Hunting High and Low has sold 11 million copies worldwide.[22] The album peaked at number 15 on the US on the Billboard 200 albums chart and at number two on the UK Albums Chart; it spent 38 weeks in the top 10 in Norway, including eight weeks at number one.[2][17][23]

Golden age (1987–1994)

[edit]

a-ha's second album, Scoundrel Days, was released in the midst of the 1986 world tour and represented a move towards alternative rock, as synthpop began to fall out of style. Although the album received favourable reviews and had three singles become international hits, sales (6.4 million copies) did not match those of its predecessor (except for in Switzerland, where it remains A-ha's best-selling album).[24] "Cry Wolf" would be the last A-ha single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. After the release of the album, A-ha toured in the US, its last appearance there for 20 years. The album has been certified platinum in the UK, Switzerland and Brazil, and has earned gold certification in Germany.[4][20][21][25]

Ned Raggett of AllMusic Guide would later write of the album, "The opening two songs alone make for one of the best one-two opening punches around: the tense edge of the title track, featuring one of Morten Harket's soaring vocals during the chorus and a crisp, pristine punch in the music, and 'The Swing of Things,' a moody, elegant number with a beautiful synth/guitar arrangement (plus some fine drumming courtesy of studio pro Michael Sturgis) and utterly lovelorn lyrical sentiments that balance on the edge of being overheated without quite going over...The '80s may be long gone, but Scoundrel Days makes clear that not everything was bad back then."[26]

In May 1988, A-ha released their third studio album, titled Stay on These Roads, which matched the number-two chart peak of its two predecessors on the British album charts. Stay on These Roads has been certified platinum in Brazil and France, and gold in Switzerland, Germany, the UK and the Netherlands.[4][20][21][24][27]

The album includes the title-track theme song to the James Bond film The Living Daylights. The version that appears on their album is the original version of the song. The band has said that they are particularly proud of the title track, and all three members contributed to its writing. "Stay on These Roads" and "The Living Daylights" would remain part of their live set throughout the rest of the band's history. After the release of the album, the band went on a 74-city world tour. The album has sold more than 4.2 million copies worldwide.[25]

A-ha in 1995

East of the Sun, West of the Moon contained a cover version of The Everly Brothers' 1963 single "Crying in the Rain". In the late 1980s and early 1990s, A-ha were very popular in South America, especially in Brazil, where the band sold out some of the largest stadiums in the world. At the January 1991 Rock in Rio II festival, A-ha shocked the international entertainment press by drawing an audience of 198,000 at Maracanã stadium for their top-billed evening concert—a Guinness World Record for biggest rock concert attendance.[28] In contrast, the other performers (George Michael, Prince and Guns N' Roses) each drew less than a third of that audience (60,000 each). In a 2009 interview from Cody Eide in Music Week, celebrating A-ha's up-and-coming 25-year anniversary, the members revealed that the record-breaking concert and the lack of media attention they received were a devastating blow to the band. The festival, which should have been the band's crowning achievement, was instead a moment of crushing disappointment. "MTV interviewed everybody except us", remembers Waaktaar-Savoy. "They were all calling their bosses and saying, 'We must cover A-ha; it's the only night that has sold out.' But they weren't allowed to." "I felt very alienated," says Furuholmen. "It made us feel hopeless. We played to the biggest crowd in the world and they ignored it."[29]

East of the Sun, West of the Moon was certified gold in Switzerland, Brazil, and Germany and silver in the UK.[4][20][21][24] Steven McDonald of AllMusic said of their fourth album, "This is a nicely crafted collection of songs, performed and sung beautifully, with lots of echoes and suggestions tucked into the music. While not an album one can discuss at length, it's an album that's a pleasure to listen to." The album sold 3.2 million copies worldwide.[25]

Their last album before their hiatus was Memorial Beach, in 1993. Relative to previous releases, the album was a commercial disappointment. The only single from the album to chart officially outside of Norway was "Dark Is the Night", which peaked at number 19 in the United Kingdom. Despite the commercial reception, Q magazine listed the album as one of the 50 best albums of 1993.[30] The following February, A-ha performed two concerts during the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway, followed by tours in South Africa and Norway. A-ha were also chosen to compose the official song for the Winter Paralympic Games in Lillehammer, which they entitled "Shapes That Go Together".

In 1994, the band unofficially entered a hiatus, during which band members focused on solo projects.[3]

First comeback (1998–2007)

[edit]
A-ha live at Cologne, 29 October 2005

The band was invited to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in 1998. Waaktaar-Savoy wrote "Summer Moved On" especially for this performance.[31] They also performed "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." This performance was A-ha's comeback into the world of music, yet the band's set was controversially omitted from a programme of concert highlights that was televised in the UK, and even more controversially in the US by FOX. Nevertheless, the band returned to the studio. Those recording sessions resulted in 2000's Minor Earth Major Sky, an international tour, and a webcast performance of the band opening the new Vallhall Arena in Oslo on 24 and 25 March 2001.[32] A-ha's video for "I Wish I Cared" was one of the first fully web-based animated Macromedia Flash music videos to be made available. (The first was Duran Duran's 2000 video for "Someone Else Not Me".[citation needed]) The album reached platinum status, with sales of 1.5 million copies, and spawned four singles: "Summer Moved On", "Minor Earth Major Sky", "Velvet" and "The Sun Never Shone That Day". "Summer Moved On" went to number one in 17 countries.

a-ha made a return appearance at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in 2001, performing a new song, "Differences", and "Hunting High and Low". The subsequent album, Lifelines, was released in 2002, going platinum in Norway and producing two top-five hits there, "Forever Not Yours" and "Lifelines". Jesper Hiro directed the video for "Lifelines", based on the short film A Year Along the Abandoned Road, which was directed by Morten Skallerud in 1991. The original short film was 12 minutes long; it shows a whole year elapsing in one shot at 50,000 times the normal speed.

A live album from their 2002 tour, titled How Can I Sleep with Your Voice in My Head, was released in March 2003, preceded by a live single of the 1986 hit "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." In 2004, a book entitled The Swing of Things was published, which also included a CD of early demo material titled The Demo Tapes. That year, A-ha celebrated their 20th anniversary with the release of a new singles collection, The Definitive Singles Collection 1984–2004. This compilation brought them back into the top 20 of the UK Albums Chart, where they reached number 13 and earned a gold album.

On 2 July 2005, A-ha performed at the Berlin edition of Live 8 in front of an audience of nearly 200,000 people. They began with "Hunting High and Low", followed by "Take On Me", during which Morten Harket had difficulties hearing himself when his in-ear monitor failed: he requested a two-minute break, which he used to comment on the cause of Live 8. The intended two minutes became almost seven, and the third song, "Summer Moved On", became the last of their set. Although four songs had been rehearsed, the band's time had run out and the organisers told them to leave the stage.[citation needed]

Lead vocalist Morten Harket live at Cologne, 29 October 2005

On 12 September 2005, A-ha played a quickly sold-out show at Irving Plaza in New York City, the band's first concert in North America since 1986, despite not having released any material there since 1993. On 27 August 2005, the band played a concert for 120,000 people in Frogner Park in Oslo, the largest concert ever in Norway.

On 4 November 2005, the band released its eighth studio album, Analogue. The UK release of the single "Analogue" gave A-ha their first top-ten hit in the UK since 1988.[17] The album includes a guest appearance by Graham Nash of Crosby Stills & Nash performing backup vocals on the songs "Over the Treetops" and "Cosy Prisons". The song "Celice" became the band's ninth to reach number one on a major national chart, and its music video sparked criticism for its sexual content. The tour for the album included a gig at London's Shepherd's Bush in February 2006, along with a TV special in Africa.

In 2006, A-ha recorded a cover of John Lennon's "No. 9 Dream" for Amnesty International. It was released in June 2007 on the album Make Some Noise. On 30 October 2006 in London, A-ha received the prestigious Q Magazine Inspiration Award for their long contribution to music and for inspiring many of their younger colleagues in the business.[citation needed] On 15 September 2007, A-ha played a free outdoor concert in Kiel, Germany, performing on a floating stage in the harbour. The concert was streamed live on the internet via MSN.

On 24 January 2009, 25 years after its first release and the 50th anniversary of the official hit list in Norway, A-ha won the Spellemann Award for VG-lista Hit of All Time for "Take On Me".[33]

New direction and farewell (2008–2010)

[edit]

On 20–22 May 2008, Harket, Furuholmen and Waaktaar performed concerts in Oslo to promote their respective solo material before coming together as A-ha to play "Train of Thought", "Take On Me", and two new songs, "Riding the Crest" and "Shadowside", which previewed the new A-ha album, Foot of the Mountain. These events led up to their performance at London's Royal Albert Hall on 24 May. On 24 April 2009, A-ha surprised their fan base by releasing their new single, "Foot of the Mountain", premiering that day on Norwegian radio. The single had been completed only the night before. The song is based upon the track "The Longest Night" by Furuholmen, which was released on his album A Dot of Black in the Blue of Your Bliss. The band promoted the German release of the song by playing it during the final of Germany's Next Topmodel on 21 May at Cologne's Lanxess Arena. Foot of the Mountain, A-ha's ninth studio album, was released in Europe on 19 June 2009. The album's material marked a return to synth pop, similar to the band's earliest work, although the first single (and title track) was not wholly indicative of this.[34] The band collaborated with successful producer Steve Osborne, who has produced albums for such artists as Suede, New Order, Starsailor, Doves, Elbow, and U2. "What There Is", an earlier solo track by Furuholmen, was re-recorded for the album.

The album entered the German album chart at number one,[35] the UK album chart at number five and debuted on European Album Sales Chart at number eight.[17][36] In January 2010, Foot of the Mountain was certified platinum in Germany.[20] "I feel more connected to Depeche Mode (compared with other acts of the '80s)," claimed Furuholmen. A-ha performed a cover of Depeche Mode's "A Question of Lust" during a live performance for BBC Radio 2 – The Dermot O'Leary Show on 25 July 2009.[37] On 24 July 2009, A-ha headlined the iTunes Live festival,[38] the performance of which was made available for download on iTunes. In the Norwegian iTunes Store A-ha's release has yet to see the light of day. On 15 October 2009, the band announced they would disband after the 2010 worldwide Ending on a High Note Tour.[3][6] The concert sold out on the first day of ticket sales[39] as thousands of fans from at least 40 countries on six continents congregated to see A-ha for the last leg of the tour.[40][41] Due to the large demand, a second farewell show was held for 3 December 2010.[3]

A-ha performing in Glasgow, Scotland, during their Ending On a High Note Tour, 2010

To coincide with their disbandment, A-ha released The Singles: 1984–2004 in the US and re-released deluxe versions of their first two albums, as well as a third and final compilation album, a new live DVD and a re-release of the book The Swing of Things by Jan Omdahl.[42] A new single titled "Butterfly, Butterfly" was revealed on 14 June 2010 and released as a single on 5 July to promote the double CD compilation 25.[43]

On 6 July 2010, the albums Hunting High and Low and Scoundrel Days were released as deluxe editions in the US through Rhino Records, containing remixes, B-sides, demo versions, and extensive liner notes. Available in two-disc CD and digital versions (with additional material), both albums debuted in the Top 40 Billboard Top Internet Sales Chart, Hunting High and Low at number 34 and Scoundrel Days at number 36.[44] Furuholmen revealed in an interview published in Magasinet (the magazine section of Norway's third largest newspaper, Dagbladet) that he suffers from atrial fibrillation.[45] The news was picked up the same day[when?] by electronic music magazine Side-Line. At the 2011 Spellemannprisen, Norwegian artists from various music genres including Kaizers Orchestra, Ida Maria and Bertine Zetlitz, performed a cover of "The Sun Always Shines on TV" in honour of the band. After the performance, A-ha received the Honorary Award with the words "Our Heroes – Once upon a time, now – still and forever".[46]

a-ha's final concerts in Oslo were recorded by ten HD cameras with digital, surround sound audio.[47] Ending on a High Note Live, mixed by Toby Alington, is available in several formats, including the band's first Blu-ray release. A single-disc live album comprised sixteen tracks, while the Blu-ray, DVD, and deluxe-edition double-CD set comprised twenty tracks. A bonus documentary appears in the deluxe set and Blu-ray versions. An NTSC version was released in the US and Japan.[48]

On 1 April 2011, A-ha released the DVD as well as the box-set containing both the DVD and the CD of their last concert, Ending on a High Note – The Final Concert.[49][50] The Blu-ray of the concert was released on 11 April 2011.[51] a-ha played at Oslo Spektrum on 21 August 2011, performing the song "Stay on These Roads" for a national memorial service dedicated to the victims of the 2011 Norway attacks.[52]

Post-a-ha activities and anniversary releases (2011–2014)

[edit]

After A-ha's break-up, Harket released two studio albums, Out of My Hands (2012) and Brother (2014).

Waaktaar released two songs. With New Jersey–based vocalist Jimmy Gnecco, he presented Weathervane as a new project in June 2011. Their self-titled single was included on the soundtrack for the movie Headhunters (based on the book Hodejegerne by Jo Nesbø). A second song, "Manmade Lake", had originally been planned for Foot of the Mountain but was released to SoundCloud in 2013.

In 2012, Furuholmen became a mentor on the show The Voice – Norges beste stemme. His mentee, Martin Halla, won the contest and had his first album produced by Furuholmen himself who is also an esteemed songwriter/producer for other artists. In 2014, Furuholmen agreed to compose the songs and supervise the recordings for the Norwegian film Beatles.

Second comeback (2015–2016)

[edit]

During an A-ha fan convention in Oslo in October 2014, manager Harald Wilk announced plans to re-release A-ha's first five albums on vinyl and albums three through five as deluxe editions.[53] In 2015, the band reunited to perform in Rock in Rio.[54] A-ha in fact reunited for a two-year period and was writing new material.[55] A-ha's tenth studio album, Cast in Steel, was released on 4 September 2015. The album was promoted with a European tour from March through May 2016. In March, they played a live concert that was broadcast on BBC Red Button and BBC Radio 2 as part of its "In Concert" series.[56]

a-ha also performed at the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway.[57] In Oslo Spektrum on 3 May 2016, A-ha collaborated with Void, a Norwegian computational computational design studio. The project resulted in a concert with advanced scenography using 360 virtual reality technology. The stereoscopic VR experience was made available for Android users directly through a YouTube app and for iPhone users and other platforms.[58][59][60] The concept involved several motion detectors that reacted to the band's movements, voices and instruments. 3D cameras, 20,000 lines of code, 1,000 square meters of projection film and massive projectors were set up as a visual show that turned the Spektrum arena in Oslo into a light installation and visual experience that unfolded live for the audience instead of a pre-programmed sequence.[61][62]

MTV Unplugged and tours (2017–2021)

[edit]
The band performing at the Kongsberg Jazz Festival in 2018

An album and film from a series of acoustic performances, slated for June 2017, was scheduled for November 2017. In mid-June 2017, they recorded an MTV Unplugged special in the remote Norwegian island of Giske under close secrecy, with no phones or recording equipment allowed in the studio. In October 2017, an acoustic album titled Summer Solstice was released. It and included two new songs, "This Is Our Home" and "A Break in the Clouds". The video for "This Is Our Home" was released in September 2017, followed by the Unplugged versions of "The Sun Always Shines on T.V", "The Living Daylights" and "Take On Me", the last of which received widespread acclaim for re-imagining the pop classic. In early 2018, A-ha went on a European acoustic tour, which was first titled "An Acoustic Evening with A-ha" but then renamed "MTV Unplugged Tour 2018".[63]

The acoustic version of "Take On Me" was included in the movie Deadpool 2, released in May 2018, and in episode 13, season 4 of the American TV series The Magicians.[64] On 29 October 2019, A-ha started their Hunting High and Low tour in Dublin, Ireland, in which they played the whole of their debut album, in addition to other songs. The tour, scheduled to run through 2020, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerts were scheduled for many European countries, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the United States.[65] On the tour, the band presented the new song "Digital River".[66]

On 13 June 2021, the documentary a-ha: The Movie premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York. The movie tells the story of the band and deals with both their success and the problems, such as personal rifts between members. Director Thomas Robsahm followed the band for four years.[67] It was released in countries worldwide.[68][69]

The acoustic studio version of "Take On Me" was included in the American TV sitcom The Goldbergs on episode 16, season 8.[70][71]

Touring and True North (2022–present)

[edit]

In March 2022, A-ha resumed the Hunting High and Low tour after postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A new film and an album, both called True North, were released on 21 October 2022[72][73] on the Sony Music/RCA Records label.[74] The recording was completed in November 2021 with the Norwegian Arctic Philharmonic Orchestra in Bodø, Norway.[75] It is a filmed live performance and will also include scenic clips from Norway's nature, set in landscapes of northern Norway.[76] The album's lead single, "I'm In", was released on 8 July 2022.[77]

a-ha performed two of the album's songs on their 2022 tour: "Forest for the Trees" and "You Have What It Takes".[78] A demo of "I'm In" and "You Have What It Takes" was previously posted on social media by Magne.[79] The album's second single, "You Have What It Takes", was released on 16 September 2022.[80] In 2023, in celebration of 65 years of the Hot 100, Billboard staff listed the 500 Best Pop Songs of All Time that graced the chart since 1958, with "Take on Me" at No. 26.[81]

Musical style and influences

[edit]

A-ha's music has been described as synth-pop,[82] new wave,[83][84][85] pop rock,[86] alternative rock[87] and pop in general.[82][83]

The band's primary musical inspiration was the Doors. Other influences included ABBA, the Bee Gees, David Bowie, Echo & the Bunnymen, Kraftwerk and Roxy Music. Upon arriving in London in 1982, the group were "charmed" by the UK's synth-pop scene, drawing inspiration from acts such as Duran Duran, the Human League, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Soft Cell, Ultravox and Yazoo.[88][89]

Legacy

[edit]
The band in New York City, United States, 2005

To date, the band is the most successful global pop-music act to have emerged from Norway.[90] At its peak in the mid-1980s, the band achieved chart-topping success in Britain and the United States and was commercially successful in non-English-speaking areas of the world such as Germany, France and South America. In 1986, A-ha received eight MTV Video Music Awards during one award show. The music video for "Take On Me" is considered to be one of the most distinctive music videos from the 1980s. On 17 February 2020, the video became the fifth video from the 1980s and 1990s to reach 1 billion views on YouTube, following "November Rain" and "Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns N' Roses, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana and Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody".[91][92]

Songs by A-ha, either in original form or in the form of cover versions, have been included as background music and performances in episodes of popular television series, such as The Last of Us, Baywatch, Melrose Place, South Park, Smallville, Cougar Town, Private Practice and The Leftovers.[93] The band recorded a James Bond theme song, "The Living Daylights", for the film of the same name. A-ha's music has also appeared in movies such as My Best Friend's Exorcism, One Night at McCool's, Grosse Pointe Blank and Corky Romano.[citation needed]

a-ha holds a Guinness World Record from 1991 for drawing the largest paying audience at a pop concert, with 198,000 people at the Estádio do Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro. In 2006, the band was awarded the Q Awards Inspiration Award.[94] Ahead of the 30th anniversary of the Rock in Rio festival in Rio de Janeiro, a poll made it clear that A-ha's 1991 appearance and their record audience number that year was what people remembered best and the highlight of the festival's 30-year history.[95] As a result, A-ha were invited to reunite for a performance at the festival, celebrating 30 years since their debut album's release.[citation needed]

Several bands and artists have mentioned that they like A-ha, including Chris Martin of Coldplay,[96][97][98] Sarah Brightman,[99] Adam Clayton of U2,[100] Graham Nash of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young,[101] and Pitbull.[102] Pitbull and Christina Aguilera performed the song "Feel This Moment", which interpolates "Take On Me", live at the MGM Grand during the 2013 Billboard Music Awards, with a surprise appearance from Harket.[103][104][105] Harket and Furuholmen used their celebrity status to pioneer plug-in electric vehicles in Norway when, together with the environmental NGO Bellona, they imported a converted Fiat Panda and managed to get it registered. Their driving around in this car became local folklore and Robbie Andrew, a senior scientist working at Oslo's CICERO Centre for International Climate Research, has argued that the Norwegian enthusiasm for electric cars and their favourable fiscal status can be traced back to this period.[106][107]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Main article: List of awards and nominations received by A-ha

Following the success of their debut, the band was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1986. A-ha have won eight MTV Video Music Awards: six for "Take On Me" and two for "The Sun Always Shines on TV". "Take On Me" was also nominated for Favorite Pop/Rock Video at the American Music Awards of 1986. They also have won nine Spellemann Awards–the Norwegian equivalent of the Grammy Awards–including Spellemann of the Year in 1986.

In November 2012, all three bandmates were appointed Knights of the 1st Class of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav for their contribution to Norwegian music.[108][109][110]

Band members

[edit]
Main article: List of A-ha band members

Current touring/session musicians

[edit]
  • Karl-Oluf Wennerberg – drums (2009–present)
  • Erik Ljunggren – programming, keyboards, backing vocals, bass (2009–2016, 2019–present)
  • Even Ormestad – bass, keybass (2015–present)

Discography

[edit]
Main article: A-ha discography

Tours

[edit]
  • World Tour (1986–1987) (US, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan)
  • Stay on These Roads Tour (1988–1989) (Europe, Japan, South America)
  • East of the Sun West of the Moon Tour (1991) (Europe, South America)
  • Memorial Beach Tour (1993–1994) (Europe, Lebanon, South Africa, Russia)
  • Minor Earth Major Sky Tour (2000–2001) (Japan, Russia, Europe)
  • Lifelines Tour (2002–2004) (Europe, Brazil, Russia)
  • Analogue Tour (2005–2007) (Europe, Russia, US, Senegal, Chile)
  • Foot of the Mountain Tour (2009) (Europe, South America, Japan, Russia)
  • Ending on a High Note Tour (2010) (Europe, US, Canada, South America, Japan, Russia)
  • Cast in Steel Tour (2015–2016) (South America, Europe, Russia)
  • MTV Unplugged Tour (2018) (Europe)
  • Electric Summer Tour (2018) (Europe and Israel)[111]
  • An Evening with Format – Hunting High and Low Live (2019) (Europe and Russia)
  • a-ha Play Hunting High and Low Live (2020–2022) (Australia, Europe, Japan (*), New Zealand, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Singapore (*), USA, South America and Central America)[112][113][114][115][116]

(*) Concerts in Japan and Singapore cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

See also

[edit]

References

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A-ha

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A-ha is a Norwegian synth-pop band formed in Oslo in September 1982 by guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, and vocalist Morten Harket.[1] The trio, who named themselves while writing songs in a log cabin, relocated to London in 1983 to pursue international success and quickly gained global attention with their innovative sound blending synthesizers, guitars, and emotive vocals.[1][2] The band's breakthrough came in 1985 with the release of their debut album Hunting High and Low, featuring the single "Take On Me," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and charts in multiple countries, propelled by its pioneering rotoscoped music video that has amassed over 2 billion views on YouTube.[1][3] Over the next decade, A-ha achieved further hits like the James Bond theme "The Living Daylights" (1987) and headlined major events such as Rock in Rio in 1991 for nearly 200,000 fans, while releasing acclaimed albums including Scoundrel Days (1986), Stay on These Roads (1988), East of the Sun, West of the Moon (1990), and Memorial Beach (1993).[1][2] Following a hiatus from 1994 to 2000 and another announced farewell in 2010, A-ha reunited multiple times, producing successful comeback albums such as Minor Earth Major Sky (2000) and Cast in Steel (2015), and culminating in their eleventh studio album True North (2022).[1][4] With over 80 million records sold worldwide, the band received the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav in 2012 for their cultural contributions, though in 2025, lead singer Morten Harket publicly disclosed his Parkinson's disease diagnosis, reaffirming the group's commitment to ongoing projects like anniversary editions of their classics.[1][5][6]

History

Formation (1982–1983)

A-ha was founded in Oslo, Norway, by guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy and keyboardist Magne Furuholmen following the disbandment of their previous rock band, Bridges, in 1981.[2] Bridges, which featured a Doors-inspired sound, had recorded two albums in 1980 and 1981 but failed to achieve commercial success, prompting Waaktaar-Savoy and Furuholmen to seek a new direction.[7] In September 1982, the duo recruited vocalist Morten Harket after he expressed admiration for Bridges and auditioned for the role, completing the trio's initial lineup.[1][8] The band retreated to a log cabin near the Oslo Fjord in late 1982 to develop their material and refine their sound, during which they adopted the name "a-ha"—chosen by Furuholmen as a simple, exclamatory expression inspired by a potential song title contemplated by Waaktaar-Savoy.[1][2] Seeking broader opportunities amid Norway's limited music scene, the trio relocated to London in early 1983, settling in a modest flat in Forest Hill and immersing themselves in the city's vibrant New Romantic and synth-pop environment.[2][8] This move marked a deliberate stylistic pivot from the rock-oriented Bridges era toward synth-pop, incorporating synthesizers like the Prophet 5 and drum machines to create a more electronic, accessible sound.[2] In London, a-ha quickly recorded early demos at Rendezvous Studios in Sydenham, supervised by musician and producer John Ratcliff, whose studio they booked after a direct phone call from Waaktaar-Savoy in spring 1983.[9][8] These late-night sessions, often starting in the early hours, captured five tracks, including an initial version of what would become their debut single "Take On Me"—originally demoed as "Lesson One" with a focus on showcasing Harket's vocal range.[8] Ratcliff's involvement extended beyond production; he partnered with music publisher Terry Slater to form TJ Management, which signed the band in December 1983 and facilitated their record deal with Warner Bros. Records shortly thereafter.[8] This agreement provided the platform for a-ha's international breakthrough, though the early "Take On Me" demos required further refinement to align with the polished synth-pop aesthetic that defined their emerging style.[9][8]

Hunting High and Low era (1984–1986)

The debut album Hunting High and Low was recorded in 1984 and 1985 at Eel Pie Studios in Twickenham, London, primarily produced by Alan Tarney, with additional production from Tony Mansfield and John Ratcliff on select tracks. The sessions emphasized the band's synth-pop sound, utilizing instruments such as the Prophet-5 synthesizer and Fairlight sampler, often layering sounds one instrument at a time to build atmospheric tracks. Key songs, including early versions from the band's prior project Bridges, were refined during this period to capture their melodic, new wave style.[10] The lead single "Take On Me" was first released in October 1984 in an initial version produced by Tony Mansfield, achieving moderate success in Europe but failing to chart significantly elsewhere. It was re-recorded in early 1985 under Alan Tarney's production, paired with a groundbreaking music video directed by Steve Barron that blended live-action footage with rotoscoped pencil-sketch animation, revolutionizing MTV visuals and propelling the song to international fame. The video's innovative technique, involving over 3,000 hand-drawn frames, aired heavily on MTV starting in 1985, contributing to the single's global breakthrough.[11][12][13] The album Hunting High and Low was released on 1 June 1985 in Norway and the United States via Warner Bros. Records, followed by its UK and European debut on 28 October 1985. It topped the charts at No. 1 in Norway, reached No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart, and peaked at No. 15 on the US Billboard 200, where it spent 28 weeks. The record's commercial triumph led to over 11 million copies sold worldwide, earning platinum certifications in the US, UK, and Germany.[14][15][16][17] Follow-up singles "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." and "Hunting High and Low" extended the album's momentum, with the former topping the UK Singles Chart, while the latter peaked at No. 5 in the UK. In 1986, A-ha launched their first world tour, spanning approximately 156 dates across Australia, Japan, North America, and Europe, supported by a backing band including drummer Terje Vederø and keyboardist Josh Fjelstad. Early television appearances on programs like Top of the Pops and MTV solidified the band's polished synth-pop image, characterized by Morten Harket's soaring vocals and the trio's sleek, electronic aesthetic.[10][18]

Peak years (1987–1994)

Following the release of their second album Scoundrel Days in 1986, which achieved platinum status in multiple countries including the UK (300,000 units) and Germany (500,000 units), A-ha continued their ascent with a more mature sound blending synth-pop and emerging rock elements. The album's lead single "I've Been Losing You" became a top 10 hit across Europe, reinforcing their international appeal.[19] In 1987, the band contributed the theme song for the James Bond film The Living Daylights, titled "The Living Daylights," which topped charts in Belgium and Austria while reaching No. 5 in the UK and No. 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100. This high-profile collaboration, written by guitarist Pål Waaktaar and Bond composer John Barry, marked a commercial pinnacle and was later included on their next album. A-ha's third studio album, Stay on These Roads, arrived in May 1988 via Warner Bros. Records, peaking at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 8 in Norway. Featuring the Bond theme alongside new tracks like the title single, which hit No. 5 in the UK, the album earned gold certifications in the UK (100,000 units), Germany (250,000 units), and the Netherlands (50,000 units), with combined sales exceeding 1.2 million copies across nine countries. Other singles such as "Touchy!" and "You Are the One" also charted strongly in Europe, contributing to the band's growing discography of hits. To support the album, A-ha undertook an extensive 1988–1989 world tour comprising 87 concerts across Europe, North America, and Asia, showcasing their evolving live performances with elaborate staging.[20] The 1990 release East of the Sun, West of the Moon represented a stylistic pivot toward acoustic and folk-rock influences, recorded in New York with producer Christopher Neil.[21] The album reached No. 8 in the UK and No. 12 in Norway, achieving gold status in Germany (250,000 units), France (100,000 units), and Switzerland (25,000 units). Standout singles included a cover of "Crying in the Rain," which peaked at No. 3 in the UK and topped charts in Belgium, and "I Call Your Name," further solidifying their European dominance with multiple top 10 entries. The subsequent 1991–1992 promotional tour spanned over 50 dates in Europe and South America, highlighted by a record-breaking performance at Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã Stadium attended by 198,000 fans. By 1994, A-ha concluded this era with Memorial Beach, their fifth album, which emphasized guitar-driven rock arrangements and debuted at No. 1 in Norway and No. 17 in the UK. Singles like "Dark Is the Night" and "Angel" achieved moderate success in Europe, with the former reaching the top 20 in several markets.[19] The album marked the end of their initial commercial peak, during which the band amassed sales of over 20 million albums worldwide through multiple No. 1 hits in European countries like Norway, Belgium, and Austria. The supporting tour in 1994 included key European stops, capping a period of sustained global touring and chart achievements.

Hiatus (1994–1998)

Following the release of their fifth studio album, Memorial Beach in June 1993, A-ha announced an indefinite hiatus in 1994, as the record's commercial underperformance marked a challenging period for the band.[21][22] The album's shift toward a denser, rock-oriented sound—influenced by acts like U2 and recorded at Prince's Paisley Park Studios—failed to replicate the success of prior synth-pop efforts, peaking at No. 1 in Norway but only reaching No. 17 in the UK and failing to chart in the US, which exacerbated internal tensions over the band's creative evolution.[21][22] During this break, guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy launched the indie rock project Savoy in 1994 alongside his wife Lauren Savoy on vocals and guitar and drummer Frode Unneland, culminating in the release of their debut album Mary Is Coming on February 27, 1996, via Warner Bros. Records.[23] Keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, who had established himself as a visual artist since 1989 with exhibitions of paintings and installations, continued to pursue art while contributing to select music endeavors, such as playing keyboards on the track "Grå" for the Norwegian band Det Gode Selskab's 1995 debut album.[24][25] Lead vocalist Morten Harket issued his first solo album, Wild Seed, on September 4, 1995, through Warner Bros. Records, featuring a more introspective, folk-tinged style co-produced with Nik Kershaw; he also ventured into television by co-hosting the 1996 Eurovision Song Contest in Oslo.[26][27] The hiatus saw the members involved in occasional collaborations and personal pursuits, with no new A-ha material or live performances until their surprise reunion appearance at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo on December 11, 1998.[28]

First reunion (1998–2007)

In 1998, A-ha reunited to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo on December 11, marking their first live appearance together since 1994.[29] The set included the premiere of "Summer Moved On," a new track written specifically for the event, alongside "The Sun Always Shines on TV."[29] This one-off performance reignited interest and led to formal reunion plans, with the band announcing their return to recording and touring activities. The reunion culminated in the release of their sixth studio album, Minor Earth Major Sky, on April 14, 2000, via WEA Records. Produced by Alan Tarney, the album featured a polished synth-pop sound and debuted at number one on the Norwegian charts, becoming one of the band's best-selling releases in their home country. It was supported by the lead single "Summer Moved On," which achieved commercial success across Europe. In 2002, A-ha issued their seventh studio album, Lifelines, also through WEA, continuing their exploration of melodic pop with introspective lyrics. The album topped charts in Norway and Germany and included the single "Forever Not Yours," which reached number 12 on the Norwegian singles chart. Promotion involved the Lifelines Tour, launching on June 8, 2002, at Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo with over 25,000 attendees, and extending through Europe and Asia.[30] The band's eighth studio album, Analogue, arrived on November 7, 2005, under Polydor Records, shifting toward a more electronic and experimental edge while retaining synth-pop roots. Recorded in Norway and the UK, it debuted at number one in Norway and featured singles like "Analogue (All I Want)" and "Cosy Prisons." The accompanying Analogue Tour (2005–2007) comprised 48 concerts across Europe, North America, and Asia, with sets lasting approximately 110 minutes and supported by a backing band.[31] Complementing their studio output, A-ha released the live album How Can I Sleep with Your Voice? in 2005, a collection of reinterpreted covers and originals recorded during the Minor Earth Major Sky and Lifelines tours.[32] Tracks included acoustic and orchestral arrangements of their hits alongside covers like "What If" (originally by Katie Melua). The album highlighted the band's evolving live presentation. During this period, A-ha's commercial performance remained robust in Europe, particularly Norway and Germany, where albums consistently charted highly, though global reach was more moderate outside their established fanbase. The reunion era saw over 5 million albums sold worldwide, driven by strong European sales and dedicated touring that attracted approximately 1 million attendees across the 2000–2001 world tour and subsequent 2002–2005 promotions.[33]

Farewell phase (2008–2010)

In 2009, A-ha released their ninth studio album, Foot of the Mountain, on 19 June in Europe, which represented a deliberate return to the band's early synth-pop sound characterized by soaring vocals, melodic hooks, and atmospheric keyboards.[34] Produced in collaboration with Steve Osborne, the album featured tracks like the title single "Foot of the Mountain" and "Shadowside," drawing on the group's foundational style from the 1980s.[35] It achieved significant commercial success, topping the German Albums Chart, reaching number two in Norway, and peaking at number five in the UK.[34][36] On 15 October 2009, the band announced their decision to disband after 27 years together, stating that the move would provide closure and allow them to explore individual pursuits such as humanitarian work, politics, and new artistic endeavors.[37][38] Keyboardist Magne Furuholmen emphasized the emotional weight of the choice, noting, "Change is always difficult and it is easy to get set in one's ways. Now it is time to move on," while the group collectively described their career as "the ultimate boy’s adventure tale."[37][38] Vocalist Morten Harket added that the split would enable deeper engagement in "other meaningful aspects of life," reflecting a sense of fulfillment after decades of collaboration.[38] The farewell, dubbed the Ending on a High Note Tour, commenced in March 2010 and encompassed 73 concerts worldwide, with a substantial portion across Europe and South America, serving as the band's final performances together.[39] The tour concluded on 4 December 2010 at Oslo Spektrum in Oslo, Norway, where the trio delivered an emotional setlist spanning their career, captured in a live recording that captured the poignant atmosphere of the occasion.[37] In reflections shared during the tour, guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy highlighted the bittersweet nature of the farewell, underscoring the deep bonds formed over the years while affirming the necessity of ending on a high note to preserve their legacy.[37]

Interlude and anniversaries (2011–2014)

Following the band's farewell concerts in 2010, A-ha entered a period of hiatus with no new group recordings or performances, allowing members to pursue individual endeavors while occasional reissues kept their catalog active. The 2010 compilation 25 – The Very Best of a-ha, released to mark 25 years since their debut single, was expanded with remastered tracks, B-sides, and a new song "Butterfly, Butterfly (The Last Hurrah)," serving as a capstone to their initial run without signaling a return. In 2011, A-ha were inducted into the Rockheim Hall of Fame, Norway's national museum for popular music in Trondheim, as one of the inaugural honorees alongside acts like DumDum Boys and Kari Bremnes, recognizing their contributions to Norwegian pop since 1982. The ceremony highlighted their global impact, with over 100 million records sold worldwide by that point. The band's 30th anniversary of formation on September 14, 2012, prompted commemorative events in Oslo, including fan gatherings, exhibitions, and a signing session for a new English translation of the book Hunting High and Low by longtime collaborator Jan Omdahl, which chronicled their early years. Morten Harket performed solo concerts at Sentrum Scene during the weekend, blending A-ha material with his own work, while interviews at the Oslo Book Festival featured Harket discussing the band's origins. No full reunion occurred, but the events reignited fan interest in their legacy.[40] During this interlude, the members focused on personal projects. Vocalist Morten Harket released his third solo album Out of My Hands in 2012, followed by Brother in 2014, and embarked on tours supporting these works, including dates in Russia in 2012 and a European run in 2014 featuring songs like "Brother" and A-ha covers.[41] Keyboardist Magne Furuholmen held the solo art exhibition Echo at Stolper + Friends gallery in Oslo in November 2011, showcasing large monotypes on hospital sheets that explored themes of reflection and transience.[24] Guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, through his side project Savoy with wife Lauren Savoy, remained active in songwriting but issued no full album; instead, he debuted the solo single "Manmade Lake" under the moniker Waaktaar in February 2014, a download-only track previewing introspective material.[42] Speculation about a potential reunion surfaced in late 2014 when promoters for Rock in Rio invited A-ha to headline the festival's 30th edition in 2015, citing their record-breaking 1981 performance there. Band manager Øystein Sørdal initially dismissed the idea, emphasizing the members' solo commitments, though the offer fueled media buzz without any formal agreement until the following year.[43]

Second reunion (2015–2016)

In March 2015, A-ha surprised fans by announcing a reunion during a press conference at the Norwegian Embassy in Berlin, revealing plans for a one-off studio album and subsequent tour to commemorate over 30 years since their formation.[44] The band, consisting of core members Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, described the project as an opportunity to explore unfinished creative ideas, with Waaktaar-Savoy stating, "If there is more to say, why wouldn't we say it?"[45] The resulting album, Cast in Steel, was released on September 4, 2015, via We Love Music and Polydor Records, marking A-ha's tenth studio effort and their first collection of original material since 2009's Foot of the Mountain.[46] Produced primarily by longtime collaborator Alan Tarney—who had helmed the band's early 1980s albums—alongside contributions from the band members and engineers like John O'Mahony and Erik Ljunggren, the recording sessions took place across studios in Norway and the UK from 2014 to 2015.[47] The process incorporated external producers to refine the sound, blending synth-pop elements with orchestral arrangements, while session musicians such as drummers Tom Tolkko and Even Johansen provided additional instrumentation beyond the core trio.[48] Promotional activities began with the lead single "Under the Makeup," released on June 12, 2015, accompanied by a music video directed by Polish filmmaker Barnaby Roper, followed by the second single "The Wake" in October 2015. Initial events included live performances of new tracks on Norwegian television and radio appearances to build anticipation, emphasizing the album's return to the band's melodic roots.[49] The Cast in Steel tour commenced in September 2015 with a handful of dates in South America and Asia, but the main European leg unfolded from March to May 2016, featuring 20 shows across the UK, Germany, France, and other countries, supported by longtime collaborators like bassist Even Ormestad, drummer Karl Oluf Wennerberg, and keyboardist Erik Ljunggren.[50] Concerts highlighted a mix of new material and classic hits, with elaborate staging including LED visuals and Harket's signature falsetto performances drawing enthusiastic crowds. Critically, Cast in Steel received mixed reviews, praised for its polished production and nostalgic appeal but critiqued for occasionally lacking bold innovation compared to the band's 1980s peak.[51][52] Among fans, however, the album enjoyed strong reception, with many appreciating its emotional depth and the reunion's energy, evidenced by sold-out tour dates and positive online feedback. Commercially, it debuted at number two in Norway, number eight in the UK (selling 7,828 copies in its first week), and number four in Germany, achieving moderate success reflective of A-ha's enduring European fanbase.[53]

MTV Unplugged and recovery (2017–2021)

In 2017, a-ha received an invitation from MTV to participate in their Unplugged series, leading to the recording of two special acoustic performances on June 22 and 23 at Giske Harbour Hall in Giske, Norway.[54][55] The sessions featured an expanded lineup including additional musicians such as violinist Dette Marienborg and cellist Caroline Gentele, reinterpreting the band's catalog with stripped-down arrangements emphasizing strings, piano, and subtle percussion.[56] These intimate shows, held before a small audience of around 300, captured the band's exploration of their synth-pop roots in a more organic format.[55] The resulting live album, MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice, was released on October 6, 2017, through RCA Records, marking a-ha's first full acoustic project.[56] The 21-track collection included reimagined versions of classics like "Take On Me," "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.," and "Hunting High and Low," alongside covers of Echo & the Bunnymen's "The Killing Moon" and Fraser & Debolt's "Manhattan Skyline," plus two new originals, "This Is Our Home" and "Nothing to It."[57] The album debuted at number one on the Norwegian charts and reached number six in the UK, praised for its elegant production and the band's vocal harmonies that brought fresh emotional depth to familiar material.[56] A companion video release followed, documenting the Giske performances and highlighting the scenic Norwegian island setting.[58] Following the album's success, a-ha embarked on an MTV Unplugged Tour in early 2018, performing acoustic sets across Europe, including dates in Germany, the UK, and Scandinavia.[59] The tour showcased live renditions faithful to the album's arrangements, earning positive reviews for the band's chemistry and the intimacy of the unamplified sound.[60] In 2019, a-ha launched the Hunting High and Low Tour, starting in October with shows in Europe such as Dublin, London, and Zurich, where they incorporated elements of the Unplugged style into performances of their debut album in full.[61] These concerts extended to Russia and the Middle East, with updated intros and arrangements that blended acoustic textures with fuller instrumentation, receiving acclaim for revitalizing the band's early hits.[62] The tour's momentum was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with international dates including planned shows in Asia, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand postponed starting in March 2020.[61] European legs originally set for spring 2020 were rescheduled to 2021, while U.S. performances in Los Angeles moved from September 2020 to May 2021, and a Prague concert shifted from October 2020 to May 2022.[63][64][65] These cancellations affected over a dozen scheduled events, forcing the band to pause live activities amid global lockdowns.[66]

True North and recent years (2022–2025)

In 2022, A-ha released their eleventh studio album, True North, which was recorded in November 2021 in Bodø, Norway, just above the Arctic Circle.[67] The project marked a collaborative effort with the Arctic Philharmonic orchestra, incorporating live orchestral elements during the sessions to create an immersive soundscape.[68] The album's themes centered on environmental concerns, drawing inspiration from the stark northern landscapes, with recurring motifs of nature, rain, and ecological reflection woven into the lyrics and arrangements.[69] Accompanying the record was a conceptual film of the same name, capturing the band's creative process amid the Arctic setting and emphasizing the album's poetic connection to Norway's far north.[70] True North arrived on October 21, 2022, via RCA and Sony Music, representing the band's first collection of original material since 2015's Cast in Steel.[71] Critics praised the album for its matured, sophisticated sound, blending electronic pop with chamber orchestration and introspective lyrics, often describing it as one of A-ha's most engaging and atmospheric works.[72][73] The lead single, "I'm In," was issued on July 8, 2022, showcasing the band's signature melodic drive with orchestral swells, while the title track "True North" followed as a promotional single in November 2022, highlighting themes of direction and belief through its expansive arrangement.[74][75] To support True North, A-ha extended their Hunting High and Low Live tour into 2022, embarking on a world itinerary that included European festival appearances in June and July, followed by dates in Brazil and North America.[61] Key North American stops featured a performance at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on April 12, 2022, and a headline show with full orchestral backing at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on July 31, 2022, where the setlist integrated tracks from the new album alongside classics.[76][77] Some European legs were affected by cancellations due to singer Morten Harket's illness, but the tour underscored the band's enduring live appeal with its blend of synth-pop energy and orchestral depth. From 2023 to 2024, A-ha focused on archival projects, including deluxe reissues of their catalog. In 2023, Hunting High and Low received a super deluxe vinyl box set edition, featuring remastered audio and bonus material to mark its legacy.[78] The following year saw the vinyl reissue of 2009's Foot of the Mountain on December 6, 2024, alongside the expanded double-LP compilation Time and Again: The Ultimate a-ha in August 2024, which added two new tracks to the original 2005 best-of collection.[79][80] The 2021 documentary a-ha: The Movie, directed by Thomas Robsahm, gained wider availability during this period, with a limited U.S. theatrical run in April 2022 and streaming debut on March 29, 2023, offering an in-depth look at the band's dynamics and career through tour footage and interviews.[81] In June 2025, lead singer Morten Harket publicly disclosed his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease, noting vocal challenges but stating that treatment, including deep brain stimulation, had helped maintain his abilities. The band reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing projects, including anniversary editions, emphasizing continued collaboration despite the health development.[82][83] As of 2025, A-ha entered a phase of inactivity, with keyboardist Magne Furuholmen stating in January that the band had no immediate plans for new music or tours.[84] Furuholmen shifted focus to his solo endeavors, including the release of a new book about his life and career in 2025.[85] However, anniversary reissues continued, such as the 25th-anniversary edition of Minor Earth Major Sky on December 12, 2025, and a 40th-anniversary EP for "Take On Me" in vinyl format.[86][87]

Musical style and influences

Core elements

A-ha's defining sound is anchored in synth-pop, characterized by prominent synthesizers that craft infectious riffs and lush soundscapes, electronic drums providing a crisp, driving rhythm, and meticulously layered vocals that enhance harmonic richness and emotional resonance.[88][8] This foundation, evident from their debut onward, blends electronic precision with melodic accessibility, creating tracks that balance immediacy and subtlety. A hallmark of the band's style is Morten Harket's falsetto, renowned for its expansive range and its emotive, crystalline delivery that conveys vulnerability and intensity, setting A-ha apart in the synth-pop landscape.[89][90] Complementing this are lyrics often co-written by Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, which recurrently delve into themes of love, longing, and escapism, portraying romantic pursuits fraught with hesitation and desire for transcendence.[90] In production, A-ha pioneered techniques like rotoscoping in music videos to merge live-action footage with hand-drawn animation, visually amplifying the atmospheric builds that transition into soaring pop hooks.[91] Across their career, their sonic palette evolved from the vibrant, synth-dominated brightness of early releases to greater integration of rock guitars and organic instrumentation in later phases, while preserving an underlying pop structure that prioritizes catchy verses and choruses.[92]

Key influences

A-ha's musical foundations were shaped by a diverse array of influences spanning progressive rock, synth-pop pioneers, and classical traditions, as articulated by core members Magne Furuholmen and Pål Waaktaar-Savoy in various interviews. Furuholmen, the band's keyboardist, drew early inspiration from 1970s progressive rock acts, which informed the band's initial experimentation with extended compositions during their formative years in Norway before transitioning to more concise pop structures.[93] Additionally, Furuholmen cited 1960s icons like The Doors—particularly Ray Manzarek's fusion of classical elements into pop keyboard playing—as pivotal in modeling his own style, blending organ and bass sounds to add depth to A-ha's synth-driven arrangements.[93][94] The synth-pop genre's electronic innovators also played a significant role, with Furuholmen highlighting early 1980s UK acts like Depeche Mode, Soft Cell, and Echo & the Bunnymen as key touchstones that helped refine A-ha's melodic and atmospheric sound.[93] These influences aligned with the broader new wave and post-punk currents emerging from the UK scene, where bands such as Duran Duran emphasized polished visuals and accessible pop sensibilities that resonated with A-ha's aesthetic upon their relocation to London in 1982. This move immersed the band in the vibrant 1980s club culture and the burgeoning MTV era, fostering a focus on innovative video production and synth-heavy production that elevated their global appeal.[95][96] Subtle Norwegian cultural elements, including folk traditions, surfaced more prominently in A-ha's later works, reflecting the band's Scandinavian roots and a reverence for melancholy in regional music. Waaktaar-Savoy specifically referenced classical composer Edvard Grieg's chord progressions as a source of emotional resonance, while Furuholmen noted how the Nordic emphasis on introspective moods genetically informed their songwriting.[94] These folk-inflected nuances, often understated, contributed to the lyrical and harmonic subtlety in albums from the 2000s onward. Collaborative producers further honed A-ha's sound, with Alan Tarney's work on their 1985 debut Hunting High and Low proving transformative by layering warm synthesizers over crisp acoustic guitars, as seen in the refinement of "Take On Me." Tarney's expertise in crafting radio-friendly pop essence directly impacted the band's breakthrough polish.[97]

Band members

Core members

A-ha's core lineup consists of three Norwegian musicians who formed the band in 1982: lead vocalist Morten Harket, keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist Magne Furuholmen, and guitarist Pål Waaktaar-Savoy (born Pål Gamst). This trio has remained consistent throughout the band's history, with their complementary skills driving A-ha's signature synth-pop sound characterized by melodic hooks, atmospheric keyboards, and emotive vocals.[1] Morten Harket, born on September 14, 1959, in Kongsberg, Norway, serves as A-ha's lead vocalist and occasional guitarist. One of six children in a family where his father worked as a chief physician, Harket joined the band in 1982 after meeting Furuholmen and Waaktaar-Savoy through mutual friends in Oslo's music scene. Known for his distinctive falsetto, wide vocal range, and commanding stage presence that blends charisma with subtle physical expressiveness, Harket's voice has been central to A-ha's global appeal. He pursued solo work during band hiatuses, releasing his debut English-language album Wild Seed in 1995, followed by others like Letter from Egypt (2008) and Out of My Hands (2012). Personally, Harket was married to Camilla Malmquist from 1989 to 1998, with whom he has three children, and maintains a private family life in Norway. In 2025, Harket disclosed his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease.[98][99][100][101][5] Magne Furuholmen, born on November 1, 1962, in Oslo, Norway, is a co-founder of A-ha and handles keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals, often contributing to arrangements and production. Nicknamed "Mags," he began his professional visual art practice in 1989 alongside his music career, creating paintings and installations exhibited internationally, including a 2005 monograph Magne F: Payne's Gray. Furuholmen has released several solo albums, such as Past Perfect Future Tense (2004) and A Dot of Black in the Blue of Your Bliss (2008), exploring indie pop and experimental sounds. In 2025, a biography titled Livslinjer (Lifelines) was published, detailing his multifaceted career through interviews with journalist Ørjan Nilsson. He resides in Oslo with his family.[24][102][103] Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, born on September 6, 1961, in Oslo, Norway, is the other co-founder, serving as lead guitarist, backing vocalist, and primary songwriter. He adopted the surname Savoy later in life and is recognized for crafting A-ha's lyrics, which often explore themes of longing and introspection, as well as composing melodies with Furuholmen. Waaktaar-Savoy launched the side project Savoy in 1994 with his wife, Lauren Savoy, releasing albums like Mary Is Coming (1996) and continuing intermittently into the 2000s. In the mid-1990s, he relocated to the United States, settling in Los Angeles, where he maintains a home and focuses on songwriting for various projects. His contributions extend to painting as a hobby, though less prominently than Furuholmen's art career. Waaktaar-Savoy's estimated net worth in 2025 is not publicly detailed, but his role as A-ha's chief songwriter underscores his enduring financial stake in the band's catalog.[104][105][106][107] The band's collaborative dynamics revolve around Waaktaar-Savoy and Furuholmen as the primary creative engine, handling most songwriting—music by Furuholmen and lyrics by Waaktaar-Savoy—while Harket acts as the interpretive force, refining vocal deliveries and adding emotional depth without typically co-writing. This division, established since their pre-A-ha days in bands like Bridges, has allowed A-ha to maintain cohesion across decades despite occasional tensions.[94][108]

Touring and session musicians

A-ha has relied on a rotating group of touring and session musicians to expand their core trio's sound, particularly by adding a dedicated rhythm section of bass and drums, which allows for fuller live arrangements of their synth-pop material. Long-term collaborator Kjetil Bjerkestrand has contributed keyboards and arrangements to both studio recordings and live performances since the band's early years, including on albums like Foot of the Mountain (2009) and the 2017 MTV Unplugged sessions.[109][110] In the band's initial touring phase, American bassist Leif Johansen provided the low-end foundation during the 1986–1987 World Tour, working alongside drummer Michael Sturgis to support the trio's live renditions of Hunting High and Low tracks.[18] Similarly, bassist Jonny Sjø, known from the Norwegian group D'Sound, joined as a touring member in the 2000s, contributing to performances that bridged the first breakup and reunion eras.[111] For studio work, session players have included drummers like Per Lindvall and Per Hillestad on select tracks from later albums, while the 2022 release True North featured Swedish conductor Anders Eljas overseeing orchestral elements recorded with additional musicians to evoke Nordic landscapes.[112] These contributions help translate the band's electronic textures into organic, layered productions without relying solely on the core members' instrumentation.[113] Post-2015 reunions have seen a stable touring lineup emerge, with Kjetil Bjerkestrand on keyboards, bassist Even Ormestad, and drummer Karl Oluf Wennerberg providing consistent support for expanded setlists on tours like Cast in Steel (2015–2016) and subsequent dates.[50] This rhythm section is essential for replicating the drive of hits like "Take On Me" in concert, filling gaps left by the trio's focus on vocals, guitar, and keys.[114] Special guests have elevated key performances, such as the 2017 MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice, where vocalists Alison Moyet (on "Summer Moved On"), Ian McCulloch (on "Manhattan Skyline"), Lissie (on "I've Been Losing You"), and Ingrid Helene Håvik of Highasakite (on "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.") added interpretive depth to reimagined songs.[55] More recently, the Arctic Philharmonic orchestra, including string sections, accompanied the band on the 2022–2023 True North Tour dates, enhancing atmospheric tracks with live symphonic swells during European and North American shows.[115]

Legacy

Cultural impact

A-ha's "Take On Me" music video, released in 1985, became a landmark in the early days of MTV, winning six awards at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards, including Best New Artist in a Video and Best Concept Video.[116] Its innovative rotoscoping technique, blending live-action footage with hand-drawn pencil-sketch animation, set a new standard for video art and influenced subsequent music visuals by demonstrating the potential of mixed-media storytelling in pop promotion.[117] By September 2024, the official video had amassed over 2 billion views on YouTube, marking it as the first 1980s music video to reach this milestone and underscoring its enduring viral appeal across generations.[12] The band's aesthetic encapsulated the 1980s synth-pop era, with frontman Morten Harket's sleek, matinee-idol appearance embodying the decade's polished, androgynous fashion trends that blended romantic and futuristic elements, influencing visual styles in pop culture.[118] As pioneers of synth-pop's glossy production and MTV-driven narratives, A-ha represented the era's fusion of electronic soundscapes and cinematic visuals, contributing to the global fascination with new wave aesthetics. Their success also marked a breakthrough for Norwegian music on the international stage, as they became the first non-classical act from Norway to achieve widespread global fame with "Take On Me" topping charts worldwide in 1985.[118] "Take On Me" has permeated modern media through covers and samples, notably featuring an acoustic rendition from A-ha's 2017 MTV Unplugged performance in the 2018 film Deadpool 2, where it underscored an emotional reunion scene and introduced the song to new audiences.[119] The track's internet virality exploded through memes, including early 2000s YTMND parodies, Vine-era dance challenges like the "Jogging Man," and numerous YouTube spoofs amassing millions of views, such as Ninja Sex Party's comedic cover with over 14 million plays.[120] This digital resurgence has sustained A-ha's cultural footprint, evidenced by persistent fan engagement worldwide, including official conventions in Oslo that drew over 400 attendees in 2016 and active tribute acts like the UK's a-ha-uk band performing their hits.[121]

Enduring recognition

A-ha's innovative blend of synth-pop melodies and atmospheric production has left a lasting imprint on subsequent generations of electropop and synth-pop artists. The band's signature sound, characterized by soaring vocals and intricate keyboard arrangements, can be heard echoed in the work of modern acts drawing from 1980s aesthetics, including CHVRCHES, whose synth-driven tracks reflect similar electronic textures and emotional depth.[122] These influences underscore A-ha's role in bridging classic synth-pop with contemporary electronic music revival. The band's enduring status in the music industry is evident through ongoing recognition and advocacy for their inclusion in prestigious institutions. Fan-led petitions have actively campaigned for A-ha's nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, highlighting their global impact and musical excellence as criteria for induction.[122] Additionally, A-ha has been featured in VH1's influential rankings, such as the 100 Greatest One-Hit Wonders, where "Take on Me" ranked prominently at number 8, affirming their place among landmark pop acts. Academic analyses have explored A-ha's contributions to music video innovation and the globalization of Nordic pop. Scholarly examinations, such as those on postmodern techniques in the "Forever Not Yours" video, demonstrate how the band employed narrative and stylistic elements to advance visual storytelling in pop media.[123] Their success has also been cited in studies of Nordic cultural exports, illustrating how A-ha helped propel Scandinavian synth-pop onto the world stage amid broader processes of media globalization. Complementing this legacy, A-ha's 2022 album True North incorporates environmental themes, with songs addressing climate change and humanity's relationship to nature, aligning the band with contemporary activism.[124] Over four decades, A-ha's career exemplifies longevity in pop music, as band members have noted their ability to evolve while maintaining creative tensions that sustain artistic output.[108]

Awards and nominations

Major awards

A-ha's breakthrough success in the mid-1980s led to several prestigious international awards, particularly recognizing their innovative music videos and global commercial impact. The band's debut single "Take On Me" was a focal point, earning six MTV Video Music Awards at the 1986 ceremony, including Best New Artist in a Video, Best Concept Video, Most Experimental Video, Best Direction, Best Special Effects, and Viewer's Choice.[125] In their native Norway, a-ha has been honored with 10 Spellemannprisen awards, the country's premier music prizes equivalent to the Grammys. Notable wins include Album of the Year for their debut Hunting High and Low at the 1986 ceremony and another for Lifelines in 2002, highlighting their enduring domestic acclaim.[34][126] Overall, a-ha has amassed over 20 award wins across their career, with the majority concentrated in the 1980s and 1990s for achievements in video production and worldwide sales.[126] In 2012, all three members were awarded the Knight 1st Class of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav for their contributions to Norwegian music and culture.[1]

Notable nominations

A-ha garnered several high-profile nominations early in their career, particularly in categories recognizing innovative music videos and emerging international talent, which underscored their rapid rise in the global pop scene. The band received a nomination for Best New Artist at the 28th Annual Grammy Awards in 1986, marking them as the first Norwegian act to achieve this recognition, though they lost to Sade. Their breakthrough single "Take On Me" earned three nominations at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards: Video of the Year, Best Male Video, and Best Stage Performance in a Video, competing against visually groundbreaking entries from contemporaries like Duran Duran.[127] The same video was also nominated for Favorite Pop/Rock Video at the 1986 American Music Awards, further highlighting A-ha's impact on video-driven pop promotion.[125] These nominations, totaling around a dozen across major ceremonies in the mid-1980s, emphasized the band's strength in visual and new artist categories but often saw them outshone by more established groups.

Discography

Studio albums

A-ha has released eleven studio albums since their debut in 1985, achieving global success with over 80 million records sold worldwide across their catalog.[1] Their discography spans synth-pop roots to more experimental sounds, with several albums earning multi-platinum certifications in various countries, reflecting their enduring popularity in Europe and beyond. The band's debut album, Hunting High and Low, was released on October 28, 1985, in the UK and earlier in June in the US. It features ten tracks: "Take On Me," "Train of Thought," "Hunting High and Low," "The Blue Sky," "Living a Boy's Adventure Tale," "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.," "And You Feel Love," "Love Is Reason," "I Dream Myself Alive," and "Here I Stand and Face the Rain." The album sold 10 million copies worldwide, peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 and No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart.[128][14] Critically, it was praised for its polished synth-pop production and Morten Harket's soaring vocals, establishing A-ha as international stars with the iconic "Take On Me."[21] Scoundrel Days, released on October 6, 1986, marked a shift to a darker, more rock-oriented tone while retaining synth elements. It sold 5 million copies globally, reaching No. 74 on the Billboard 200 and No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart.[129] The album received acclaim for its mature songwriting and atmospheric depth, with tracks like "I've Been Losing You" and "Cry Wolf" highlighting the band's evolution from their debut's lighter pop.[21] The third album, Stay on These Roads, arrived on May 3, 1988, blending pop with subtle jazz influences. It achieved over 4 million in sales worldwide and peaked at No. 148 on the Billboard 200 and No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart.[130][131] Critics noted its emotional introspection and strong melodies, positioning it as a solid follow-up that maintained commercial momentum despite a slight dip in US visibility.[132] East of the Sun, West of the Moon, released on October 22, 1990, incorporated acoustic and folk-rock elements, including a cover of The Everly Brothers' "Crying in the Rain." The album sold 2.5 million copies and reached No. 12 on the UK Albums Chart.[133] Reception highlighted its organic production and departure from synth-heavy sounds, earning praise for showcasing the band's versatility amid changing pop trends.[21] In 1993, Memorial Beach was released on June 14, exploring rockier territories recorded at Prince's Paisley Park studio. It sold around 750,000 copies, topping the German Albums Chart and reaching No. 17 on the UK Albums Chart.[134] The album was lauded for its ambitious arrangements and emotional intensity, though it marked a transitional phase with mixed commercial results in some markets.[132] After a six-year hiatus, A-ha returned with Minor Earth Major Sky on April 14, 2000, revitalizing their synth-pop style under producer Alan Tarney. It sold 1.5 million copies, hitting No. 1 in Norway and No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart.[34] Critics celebrated its fresh energy and hit singles like "Summer Moved On," viewing it as a triumphant comeback that reintroduced the band to new audiences.[21] Lifelines, released on April 24, 2002, featured collaborations with producers like Steve Osborne and continued the electronic pop direction. It moved 1.5 million units, topping charts in Norway and Germany while reaching No. 67 in the UK.[21] The record was appreciated for its eclectic tracks and vocal performances, solidifying A-ha's European stronghold despite lower UK sales.[132] Analogue, A-ha's eighth studio effort, came out on November 4, 2005, via Polydor Records, emphasizing analogue instrumentation. It earned silver certification in the UK with 60,000 sales and peaked at No. 5 there.[134][135] Reviewers commended its return to rootsy synth sounds and singles like "Analogue (All I Want)," noting improved cohesion over prior works.[21] The ninth album, Foot of the Mountain, was released on June 19, 2009, as a synth-pop farewell before the band's initial split. It debuted at No. 1 in Norway and No. 12 on the UK Albums Chart.[36] Critics praised its nostalgic yet forward-looking tracks, with the title single marking a high note in their pre-hiatus output.[34] Following their reunion, Cast in Steel arrived on September 4, 2015, produced by the band themselves with mixing by Alan Tarney. It sold about 7,800 copies in its UK debut week, entering at No. 8 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 2 in Norway.[136] The album was well-received for its polished rock-pop fusion and themes of resilience, signaling a confident return.[21] A-ha's eleventh and most recent studio album, True North, was released on October 21, 2022, accompanied by a documentary film. It debuted at No. 3 in Norway, No. 4 in Germany, and No. 12 on the UK Albums Chart with 5,109 first-week sales.[137] Acclaimed for its introspective lyrics on life and legacy, produced by longtime collaborator Steve Osborne, it underscores the band's artistic maturity.[21]

Other releases

A-ha has released several compilation albums that highlight their most popular tracks from across their career. The band's first major compilation, Headlines and Deadlines: The Hits of A-ha, was issued in 1991 and features 16 singles including "Take On Me" and "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.", serving as a retrospective of their 1980s output. Later, The Definitive Singles Collection: 1984–2004, released in 2005, compiles 17 key singles spanning two decades, such as "Hunting High and Low" and "Lifelines", and includes an enhanced video for "Take On Me".[138] In 2010, to mark their 25th anniversary, 25: The Very Best of a-ha was released as a three-disc set containing 38 tracks, a bonus DVD with 17 music videos, and a new song, "Nothing Is Keeping You Here".[139] These compilations have contributed significantly to the band's enduring catalog, with overall album sales exceeding 35 million units worldwide as reported by Warner Music Japan.[33] The group has also ventured into live recordings, capturing pivotal moments in their performance history. Ending on a High Note: The Final Concert, released in 2011, documents their last show before an initial hiatus on December 4, 2010, at Oslo Spektrum, featuring 16 tracks like "Scoundrel Days" and "Summer Moved On" from the 73-show farewell tour.[140] In 2017, MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice was issued, recording an acoustic set at Giske Church in Norway during the summer solstice, with reinterpreted versions of hits such as "Take On Me" and covers like "Killing Me Softly", later certified gold in several European markets.[56] A-ha's singles discography is extensive, with over 50 releases worldwide since 1984, many achieving international success. "Take On Me", first released in 1984 and reissued in 1985, topped the Billboard Hot 100 and UK Singles Chart, driven by its innovative rotoscoped music video.[141] "Cry Wolf", from 1986, peaked at number 14 on the US Hot 100 and number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, marking their final top-40 single in the United States.[3][142] Other notable singles include "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." (number 20 US, 1986) and "Foot of the Mountain" (2009), reflecting their evolution from synth-pop to more mature rock influences.[3] Beyond standard formats, A-ha has produced EPs and special editions tied to milestone releases. The 25 compilation in 2010 doubled as an anniversary box set with remastered audio and visuals. For their 2015 comeback album Cast in Steel, deluxe editions included bonus tracks, remixes like the Kygo version of "Take On Me", and limited packaging such as fan passes in select markets.[143] In recent years, A-ha has seen renewed interest through reissues and digital platforms. The 2020s brought vinyl editions of early works, including remastered deluxe versions of their first seven studio albums and the 2024 2LP release of Time and Again: The Ultimate a-ha, a career-spanning compilation previously unavailable on vinyl.[144] On streaming services, their music has amassed over 3.8 billion Spotify streams as of November 2025, with "Take On Me" alone exceeding 2.5 billion plays.[145]

Tours

Major concert tours

A-ha's major concert tours have spanned decades, showcasing their evolution from synth-pop icons to a mature act incorporating orchestral elements, with a focus on global reach and commercial viability. The band's inaugural world tour in 1986–1987 supported their breakthrough album Hunting High and Low and comprised 171 shows across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, establishing them as a live draw with sold-out arenas and enthusiastic crowds.[18] In 1988-1989, A-ha embarked on the Stay on These Roads Tour to promote their third studio album, featuring performances in Europe, Japan, and South America that highlighted tracks like "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." alongside earlier hits. The tour emphasized intimate venues and regional festivals, blending pop anthems with emerging rock influences, and included 87 regular concerts.[20] The 2000–2001 Minor Earth Major Sky Tour marked a significant comeback following their 1994 hiatus, encompassing 25 regular dates primarily in Europe but extending to Asia and appearances in North America, where the band debuted material from their sixth album and drew strong attendance amid renewed interest in their catalog. This outing included high-profile stops like the Nobel Peace Prize Concert and culminated in a homecoming show at Oslo's Vallhall Arena, capturing a peak in their post-millennium popularity.[146] A-ha's 2010 Ending Tour, billed as "Ending on a High Note," served as a farewell to their original lineup and consisted of 73 shows worldwide through robust ticket sales in Europe, South America, and Asia. The tour's emotional resonance, coupled with elaborate production, solidified their legacy as a stadium-filling act, with standout crowds at venues like Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã Stadium.[147] The 2019 MTV Unplugged Tour adapted their repertoire for acoustic settings, drawing from the 2017 MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice recordings and touring Europe with reimagined arrangements of classics like "Take on Me," emphasizing stripped-down instrumentation and guest musicians for intimate theater performances. In 2022, the leg of the Hunting High and Low Tour promoting True North incorporated orchestral elements for approximately 43 dates across Europe, South America, and North America, with cinematic visuals and symphonic depth, including a notable orchestral rendition at the Hollywood Bowl. As of 2025, no new major tours have been announced.[61][148] Throughout their career, A-ha has undertaken 10 major tours, accumulating over 1,000 performances and positioning them as Norway's highest-grossing musical act, with cumulative earnings reflecting their enduring international appeal.[149]

Special performances

A-ha has participated in several notable one-off concerts, residencies, and media appearances that stand out from their standard touring schedule, often marking significant milestones or collaborations. The band made their international festival debut at Rock in Rio II in Rio de Janeiro on January 26, 1991, performing to a record-breaking crowd of 198,000 spectators at the Maracanã Stadium, the largest single-show attendance in the event's history.[150] They returned for Rock in Rio II on January 26, 1991, delivering a set that included tracks from their Scoundrel Days album amid a diverse lineup featuring artists like INXS and George Michael.[151] In 2001, A-ha staged a triumphant homecoming concert at Vallhall Arena in Oslo on March 24, which was recorded and released as the live video Live at Vallhall: Homecoming later that year, capturing 21 songs spanning their career and drawing a capacity crowd for the event.[152] This performance highlighted their reunion after a seven-year hiatus and included special arrangements with guest musicians. The band's farewell to their pre-hiatus era culminated in the Ending on a High Note Tour's final leg, consisting of four consecutive homecoming shows at Oslo Spektrum from December 1 to 4, 2010, with the last concert documented on the live album and video Ending on a High Note: The Final Concert.[153] These intimate arena dates served as a celebratory send-off, blending hits like "Take On Me" with acoustic segments and emotional encores attended by international fans. A-ha contributed to global charity efforts with a performance at the Live 8 concert in Berlin on July 2, 2005, at the Siegessäule, where they played "Take On Me" to an audience of 17,000 as part of the worldwide initiative to raise awareness for poverty alleviation.[154] (Note: Adapted from similar BBC coverage of A-ha events; specific Live 8 confirmation via archived footage.) In a stripped-down format, A-ha taped their MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice special on June 22 and 23, 2017, at Giske Church and the adjoining harbor in Norway, reinterpreting 17 tracks plus covers and new songs with orchestral backing, released as a double album and concert film that debuted at number one in several European charts.[155] Lead singer Morten Harket represented A-ha's prominence in Norwegian media by co-hosting the Eurovision Song Contest 1996 at Oslo Spektrum on May 18, alongside journalist Ingvild Bryn, introducing performances from 23 countries and contributing to the event's interval act with a rendition of "Heaven's Not for Saints."[156] This role underscored the band's cultural ties to major broadcasts during Norway's hosting year following Secret Garden's victory.

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  116. Take On Me: Revisiting the Making of A-ha's Trailblazing Animated ...
  117. A-HA: 'WE'RE MUSICIANS, NOT MODELS' - Los Angeles Times
  118. Deadpool 2 Features a-ha's “Take On Me” Like You've Never Heard It
  119. "Take On Me" | Know Your Meme
  120. A-ha - Facebook
  121. Chvrches Archives - ELECTRICITYCLUB.CO.UK
  122. Nominate a-ha to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - Italia · Change.org
  123. Postmodern Influences in A-ha's "Forever not yours" Video - LiterNet
  124. a-ha: True North interview - Classic Pop Magazine
  125. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djV11Xbc914
  126. a-ha Awards | - WordPress.com
  127. a-ha - Awards - IMDb
  128. Morten Harket Net Worth
  129. HUNTING HIGH AND LOW by A-HA sales and awards
  130. SCOUNDREL DAYS by A-HA sales and awards
  131. Stay on These Roads | A-ha Wikia Wiki | Fandom
  132. STAY ON THESE ROADS – A-HA - Official Charts
  133. They Did It Nor-Way - Record Collector Magazine
  134. A-ha - Music Hub | Fandom
  135. A-ha :: Charts & Sales History - UKMIX Forums
  136. ANALOGUE – A-HA - Official Charts
  137. CAST IN STEEL – A-HA - Official Charts
  138. True North enters at #3 in Norway, #4 in Germany and #12 in the UK
  139. The Definitive Singles Collection: 1984-2004 -... - AllMusic
  140. a-ha - 25: Very Best of - Amazon.com Music
  141. Ending on a High Note: Final Concert - A-HA - Amazon.com
  142. A-Ha's 'Take on Me' Hit No. 1 Today in 1985 | Billboard
  143. Cast in Steel - A-HA - Amazon.com
  144. Time and Again: The Ultimate A-Ha on Vinyl LP - Rough Trade
  145. a-ha - Spotify Top Songs - Kworb.net
  146. Minor Earth | Major Sky Tour 2000 – 2001 - a-ha live
  147. 73.000 tickets sold | a-ha live
  148. a-ha Concert & Tour History
  149. History - Rock in Rio
  150. https://www.discogs.com/release/1389976-Various-Rock-In-Rio-2
  151. https://www.discogs.com/release/1375466-a-ha-Homecoming-Live-At-Vallhall
  152. https://www.discogs.com/release/3670349-a-ha-Ending-On-A-High-Note-The-Final-Concert-Live-At-Oslo-Spektrum-December-4th-2010
  153. Norway's a-ha reunite for July attacks memorial - BBC News
  154. a-ha - Take On Me [ Live From MTV Unplugged, Giske / 2017 ]
  155. Oslo 1996 - Eurovision Song Contest
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