Synth-pop that captivated the world: a-ha’s classic and popular songs

a-ha THE MOVIEa-ha

Opens Fri, 5/20: “a-ha THE MOVIE” — a-ha visits Japan! Japan in a frenzy! | Main feature clip

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a-ha is a synth-pop band formed in 1982 by members from Norway.

They have worked on the soundtracks of numerous productions, including global hits like La La Land and Deadpool 2.

Their documentary film is a-ha THE MOVIE, which captures the band’s journey from the members’ first encounters and their rapid rise to stardom in the 1980s, through their breakup, reunion, and continued success.

The film is rich with highlights, including footage from their concerts in Japan and interviews that delve into the relationships among the three members.

Take on Me (Kygo Remix)a-ha

Take on Me (Kygo Remix)

A quintessential hit of the ’80s, a-ha’s “Take On Me.” I bet many of you have heard it.

The arrangement instantly makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away to a tropical paradise the moment you press play.

It’s a delightful track that lets you enjoy the song in a different way from the exhilaration of the original! If you don’t know it, you’ve got to give it a listen.

The tropical vibe, along with the gently soothing tones, is truly pleasant.

Soft Rains of Aprila-ha

A-ha – Soft Rains of April

This is a track from a-ha’s 1986 album Scoundrel Days, by the Norwegian new wave band known for their hit “Take On Me.” Although the band is strongly associated with pop songs, they make effective use of synthesizers here to create a piece that evokes the spring landscapes of Norway in Scandinavia.

Forever Not Yoursa-ha

a-ha – Forever Not Yours (Official Video)

With its refined vocals, lyrically wistful melodies beloved by Japanese listeners, and synth-pop–style electro beats, this is truly a classic that embodies the very essence of European synth-pop! Released in April 2002, this track is by the Norwegian band a-ha and appears on the album Lifelines, which came out the same year.

Coupled with lyrics that portray the struggle to accept a fading love and an impending farewell, it exudes a nostalgic atmosphere.

Brimming with the charm of a-ha, this piece is recommended both for those who want to experience ’80s synth-pop and for anyone looking to soothe the pain of heartbreak.

Summer Moved Ona-ha

a-ha – Summer Moved On (Official Video)

Released in July 2000 by Norwegian artist A-ha, this work is a gem of synth-pop that broke a long silence.

The lyrics, sung over a bittersweet melody, brilliantly intertwine the changing of the seasons with shifts in human relationships, resonating deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which symbolically depict the end of summer, evoke a sense of wistfulness toward relationships that change over time, while Morten Harket’s soaring vocals further heighten the emotion.

Released as their first new song in six years, the track ranked high on the charts across many European countries.

There’s Never A Forever Thinga-ha

a-ha – There’s Never a Forever Thing (Official Video)

It’s a gem by the Norwegian band a-ha, woven from a tender, compassionate vocal and a pleasantly sleek synth-pop sound.

Released in May 1988 as a track on the album “Stay on These Roads,” this song pairs a sweet melody with lyrics that gently embrace the fragility of love and the transience of relationships.

The repeated refrain of “It’s going to be okay” conveys deep care for a loved one, radiating a warmth that sinks into the listener’s heart.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to savor a-ha’s signature sophistication or rediscover the allure of ’80s synth-pop.