Synth-pop that captivated the world: a-ha’s classic and popular songs
Even if you don’t recognize the name of the group a-ha, you’ve probably heard their iconic pop classic “Take On Me” at least once.
That said, some people might only know a-ha for “Take On Me.”
In this article, we’ll introduce a slew of masterpieces released by a-ha—the world-famous Norwegian synth-pop group—whose documentary film “a-ha THE MOVIE” had a limited release in Japan in May 2022 and generated plenty of buzz.
It’s a must-read not only for fans, but also for anyone looking to understand the 1980s synth-pop sound that’s trending again in the 2020s.
- a-ha Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
- [For Beginners] A Collection of Iconic and Popular Western Hits from the 1990s
- 1980s: Legendary Western Rock Bands’ Classic and Hit Songs
- Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
- Recommended masterpieces and popular songs of Western electro-pop and synth-pop
- Ace of Base’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [Studio King]
- Roxette Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Nostalgic or fresh? Great Western pop masterpieces and hit songs from the 1980s
- Take That's Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- [1980s Nostalgia] What Is the World of Synthwave? — Recommended Popular Tracks
- Depeche Mode Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- New Order Popular Song Rankings [2026]
Synth-pop that Captivated the World: a-ha’s Greatest and Most Popular Songs (31–40)
The End Of The Affaira-ha
This is a classic song by the Norwegian synth-pop band a-ha.
With its flowing melody and delicate arrangement, it’s a true adult love song that speaks to the heart.
Included on the album “Cast In Steel,” released in September 2015, this track is a poignant ballad that portrays the final chapter of a love story.
Morten Harket’s clear, translucent vocals beautifully convey the pain of heartbreak and a quiet sense of resignation.
Blending synth sounds reminiscent of the ’80s with contemporary production, it’s a refined, quintessential a-ha track.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to heal the wounds of a breakup or reflect on memories with a cherished partner.
Take On Mea-ha
This song, famous for its music video that used animation—a hallmark of the MTV era—was released in 1985 by the Norwegian band a-ha and became a worldwide hit.
It’s a classic that has been covered by numerous musicians and is widely known, so it should be easy to sing at karaoke.
Take On Me (Bass Only) (Play Along Tabs In Video)a-ha
Composed of members from Norway, the synth-pop band A-ha achieved worldwide popularity.
Their debut single “Take On Me” became a massive hit, distinguished by its trademark catchy synth intro.
While the drums and synths drive a sense of speed, the bass is built on phrases that use staccato and rests, creating the overall groove of the track.
There are also many sections played in octaves, so be sure to check your fingering carefully while aiming for a tight performance.
a-ha THE MOVIEa-ha
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 Mea-ha
There are probably people who find themselves wanting to listen to this song when summer comes around.
Still, you might wonder, “Is this classic really an anime song?” As it happens, in Illumination Entertainment’s animated film Despicable Me 3—the third installment in the series—the 80s-obsessed villain Balthazar plays this very track on a boombox during the scene where he steals a diamond.
The movie is packed with parodies, so it’s an animated series adults can enjoy too.
This July, spending your summer break watching movies might be a great idea.