
The Meaning Behind The Song: Take On Me by a-ha
Title | Take On Me |
---|---|
Artist | a-ha |
Writer/Composer | Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, Morten Harket & Magne Furuholmen |
Album | Hunting High and Low |
Release Date | April 5, 1985 |
Genre | New Wave, Synth-pop |
Duration | 3:48 |
Producer | Alan Tarney |
Take On Me, released by the Norwegian band a-ha in 1985, remains one of the most iconic songs of the 80s. Its infectious melody and catchy chorus have made it a timeless classic. But beyond its musical appeal, the song also carries a deeper meaning that resonates with many listeners.
At its core, Take On Me is a song about taking a leap of faith and embracing new possibilities. The lyrics tell the story of a person longing to connect with someone on a deeper level, urging them to “take on me” and discover the hidden depths within. It speaks to the universal desire for genuine connections and the courage it takes to open oneself up to love and vulnerability.
Personally, Take On Me holds a special place in my heart. It transports me back to my teenage years when I first discovered the song. It was a time of mixed emotions, filled with the excitement of growing up and the uncertainties of navigating the complexities of relationships. The lyrics resonated with my own experiences and the longing I felt to find someone who could truly understand me.
Furthermore, the song’s music video, directed by Steve Barron, added a whole new dimension to the song’s meaning. The video combined live-action and rotoscoping animation, creating a visually stunning and innovative piece of art. The storyline depicted a young woman being pulled into a comic book world by a mysterious stranger, symbolizing the transformative power of love and imagination.
The iconic chorus of Take On Me, with its high-pitched vocals, became the song’s most recognizable feature. It showcased lead vocalist Morten Harket’s impressive vocal range and added a sense of urgency and excitement to the song. The contrast between the soaring chorus and the melancholic verses created a dynamic and emotionally charged listening experience.
From a musical standpoint, Take On Me is a perfect blend of synth-pop and new wave elements. The song’s distinctive keyboard riff, played on a synthesizer, serves as the song’s backbone and instantly hooks the listener. The driving drumbeat and energetic guitar contribute to the song’s infectious energy, making it impossible to resist tapping your feet or singing along.
Over the years, Take On Me has been covered, sampled, and interpolated by numerous artists, truly solidifying its status as a pop culture phenomenon. Its impact extends beyond the 80s, as it continues to captivate new generations with its timeless appeal.
In conclusion, Take On Me is more than just a catchy pop song from the 80s. Its lyrics speak to the universal desire for connection and the courage it takes to open oneself up to love. The song’s music video and memorable melodies further enhance its emotional impact. For me personally, it remains a nostalgic reminder of adolescence and the universal search for meaningful connections. So the next time you hear Take On Me playing on the radio or at a party, take a moment to appreciate its deeper meaning and the lasting impression it has made on popular culture.
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