Take On Me by a-ha

This 80’s Thursday, we’re going straight into synth-pop heaven with one of the most iconic tracks — Take On Me by a-ha. Released in 1985, the song quickly ascended to global success and has since become a timeless anthem of an era defined by its bold sound and even bolder visuals.

The Norwegian trio, a-ha, didn’t just craft a pop classic — they helped pioneer the music video as an art form. The black-and-white sketch animation mixed with live action in the video set a new standard, winning multiple MTV Video Music Awards and remaining a fixture of retro countdowns. It’s nearly impossible to hear the opening synth riff without picturing that unforgettable hand reaching out from a comic book page.

“I’ll be coming for your love, okay?” — a fragile promise wrapped in an impossibly high falsetto that somehow still hits with emotional urgency. Morten Harket’s soaring vocals sealed the deal, making sure this wasn’t just a visual experience, but a profound musical one as well.

Decades later, Take On Me continues to be rediscovered by new generations through films, TV shows, and even video games. Its mix of longing, artistry, and pure pop energy is as irresistible now as it was in the mid-80s.

Listen now to our song of the day and let a-ha take you back to a time when music videos ruled and synths reigned supreme. Show your love for music and share justadailysong.com with your friends.