The Birth of a Classic
When a-ha released "Take On Me" in 1984, the synth-pop sound was still finding its footing. The original version, produced by Alan Tarney, featured a catchy melody and an infectious energy that hinted at the band's potential. However, it was the iconic music video, directed by Steve Barron, that truly catapulted the song into the zeitgeist.
Animation Meets Live Action
The video for "Take On Me" is a pioneering blend of live-action and animation that tells a story of love and adventure. A young woman is drawn into a comic book world by the dashing lead singer Morten Harket. This visual narrative added layers to the song’s meaning, transforming it from a simple love song into an epic tale of escape and longing.
"I'll be gone in a day or two"
The urgency in Harket's voice, as he sings about fleeting time, parallels the video's storyline—she is pulled away from her mundane reality into a fantastical chase. The juxtaposition of reality and fantasy is a powerful dynamic that the video exploits beautifully.
Cultural Impact
Upon its release, the video was revolutionary. It garnered heavy rotation on MTV, establishing a-ha as international superstars. The blending of animation with live-action was not only visually stunning but also set a precedent for future music videos. It paved the way for artists like Peter Gabriel and Madonna to explore similar styles.
Did you know? The music video won six MTV Video Music Awards in 1986, including Best New Artist!
A Shift in Narrative
Before the video, the song's narrative was somewhat abstract, focusing on themes of longing and desire. The line
captures a sense of uncertainty that the video magnifies through its imagery. Harket's character becomes a symbol of hope, leading the protagonist away from her ordinary life."So needless to say, I'm odds and ends"
Timeless Appeal
Even decades later, the impact of the video is undeniable. It remains a touchstone in pop culture, often referenced in discussions about the evolution of music videos. The animation technique, combined with a compelling story, gave the song a timeless quality, allowing it to endure beyond the 80s.
Conclusion: Legacy of 'Take on Me'
Ultimately, the marriage of a-ha's "Take On Me" and its music video transformed the song from a catchy synth-pop track into a cultural phenomenon. The narrative depth added by the video continues to inspire filmmakers and musicians alike, proving that sometimes, an image is worth a thousand words. The song’s message of yearning and escape resonates through generations, making it a classic example of how music and visual art can intertwine to create something truly unforgettable.