A-ha

Definition

a-ha is a Norwegian synthpop band formed in 1982, best known for their hit single 'Take On Me' and their innovative use of synthesizers and technology in music. Their sound epitomizes the New Wave movement of the 1980s, and their success was heavily tied to the rise of music videos as a primary medium for promoting artists and songs, particularly through platforms like MTV.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. a-ha's 'Take On Me' was released in 1984 and became an international hit, reaching number one in multiple countries and showcasing their catchy melodies and synth-driven sound.
2. The iconic music video for 'Take On Me' featured a unique blend of live-action and pencil-sketch animation, which played a significant role in its popularity on MTV.
3. The band's debut album, 'Hunting High and Low,' achieved critical and commercial success, cementing a-ha's place in the synthpop genre.
4. a-ha's use of technology in their music production set them apart from their contemporaries, utilizing synthesizers to create lush soundscapes that defined their sound.
5. Despite facing challenges in maintaining mainstream success after the 1980s, a-ha has continued to produce music and tour, maintaining a loyal fan base across the globe.

Review Questions

• How did a-ha's use of synthesizers influence the sound of New Wave music during the 1980s?
  • a-ha's incorporation of synthesizers into their music exemplified the broader trend of New Wave, where electronic instruments played a crucial role in shaping the sound. By using synths to create catchy hooks and atmospheric textures, a-ha helped define the genre's characteristic style. Their innovative approach not only appealed to audiences but also influenced other artists to adopt similar techniques in their music production.
• Discuss the impact of MTV on a-ha's success, particularly with their hit 'Take On Me'.
  • MTV played a pivotal role in a-ha's rise to fame by providing a platform for their groundbreaking music video for 'Take On Me.' The combination of catchy music and an imaginative video featuring live-action mixed with animation captivated viewers, leading to heavy rotation on the network. This exposure significantly boosted the song's popularity, showcasing how MTV could elevate an artist’s profile and redefine music promotion during that era.
• Evaluate the legacy of a-ha within the context of the evolution of popular music and media from the 1980s onward.
  • a-ha's legacy is marked by their contributions to both the synthpop genre and the evolving landscape of popular music media. Their innovative use of technology in music creation set new standards for artists who followed. Furthermore, their success on MTV highlighted the importance of visual representation in music marketing. As they adapted to changes in the industry over the decades, a-ha's ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary sounds has allowed them to remain relevant, influencing new generations of musicians while solidifying their iconic status.

Related terms

Synthesizer: An electronic musical instrument that generates audio signals, used extensively in the creation of pop music during the New Wave era.

MTV:

A cable television network launched in 1981 that revolutionized music promotion by focusing on music videos and visual presentation.

New Wave: A genre of music that emerged in the late 1970s and 1980s, characterized by a blend of pop melodies, electronic instruments, and a punk aesthetic.