Song Exploder A-ha - Take On Me
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Oct 15, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, guitarist and primary songwriter for A-ha, reveals the incredible journey of "Take On Me." He shares how a teenage idea morphed into an iconic hit, highlighting the multiple flops the song faced before its success in the US. Paul dives into the band's perseverance, the pivotal role of Morten Harket, and the innovative use of synths that shaped the track's sound. He also details the unforgettable music video that helped catapult them to fame. Tune in for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look!
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Early Partnership And The Shift To Pop
- Paul Waaktaar-Savoy and Magne Furuholmen started playing together as teenagers and formed Bridges before A-ha.
- They purposely shifted toward catchier, immediate songs as they prepared to move to England to pursue a record deal.
'Miss Eerie' Demo Origins
- Paul sketched the verse on acoustic guitar and Magnus added a keyboard riff in their cabin four-track demos.
- The original chorus felt like a 'throwaway' to Paul and frustrated them in early rehearsals.
England Exposed Gaps In Their Sound
- Moving to England exposed them to a saturated pop culture that showed them the level they needed to reach.
- Realizing their demos sounded thin pushed them to re-record and improve their material quickly.