It’s no secret that A-ha frontman Morten Harket’s soaring high notes on “Take On Me” helped cement the song as one of the most iconic hits of the 1980s. But what might surprise you is how brilliantly the Norwegian synth-pop legend continues to deliver those same spine-tingling vocals decades later.
A Chilled-Out Reinvention of a Classic
A-ha’s acoustic reinterpretation of “Take On Me” gives the song an entirely new soul. Stripped of its synth-heavy energy, the MTV Unplugged version brings the lyrics and melody to the forefront, offering a hauntingly beautiful and emotional experience. The performance’s relaxed, intimate vibe has struck a chord with fans, amassing over 89 million views on YouTube — proof that timeless music only gets better with age.
🎧 a-ha – Take On Me (Live From MTV Unplugged)
Morten Harket’s Vocal Power Still Shines
Back in 2005, Harket proved he hadn’t lost a single note of his legendary range when A-ha performed at the Live 8 concert in Berlin. At 45, the singer hit that sky-high E5 falsetto flawlessly, sounding almost identical to his youthful 1984 self. Backed by a driving live band, the performance gave “Take On Me” a more rock-infused edge that fit the arena atmosphere perfectly.
🎤 a-ha – Take On Me (Live 8 2005)
Fans were quick to praise the performance, flooding the comments with admiration:
“It’s the mark of a great singer how he hits the high notes perfectly after so many years. No Auto-Tune, no nonsense.”
“Morten Harket’s vocal range is virtually unmatched. It took years of dedication to make this song the classic it is.”
The Live 8 performance has now garnered over 80 million views, becoming A-ha’s second most popular live video after their MTV Unplugged rendition, which surpassed 105 million views.
A Legacy That Still Inspires
The Live 8 event, organized by Sir Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, was part of a global movement supporting the Make Poverty History campaign. A-ha’s Berlin set featured “Take On Me,” “Summer Moved On,” and “Hunting High and Low,” captivating fans old and new alike.
Even decades after their 1980s breakthrough, A-ha continues to prove their lasting relevance — not just as nostalgic icons, but as artists still capable of breathtaking performances.
👉 Stay connected with A-ha on their Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates, performances, and glimpses into the band’s ongoing musical journey.
Sit back, relax, and rediscover “Take On Me” — the timeless anthem that keeps taking on new life.
