a-ha’s Acoustic ‘Take On Me’ Shines Anew in 2017 MTV Unplugged Performance
Since its release, a-ha’s “Take On Me” has been emblematic of ’80s synth-pop with its energetic rhythm and iconic music video. However, the band’s 2017 MTV Unplugged performance on Giske, Norway, offered a fresh reinterpretation that highlights the song’s underlying emotional depth.
The acoustic arrangement replaces the original’s fast-paced synthesizer with delicate guitar and piano lines, creating a more spacious and reflective atmosphere. This allows listeners to grasp the lyrics and haunting melody in a new light, emphasizing the song’s lyrical nuances.
Central to this transformation is lead singer Morten Harket’s voice, which is clear and expressive throughout the performance. Freed from the original’s dense production, his vocal phrasing gains prominence, turning familiar lines into heartfelt conversation rather than pop anthemic declarations.
Harket demonstrates remarkable control and maturity in this setting. Notably, he effortlessly reaches the song’s once notoriously challenging high notes, a skill showcased similarly during a-ha’s 2005 Live 8 appearance. This affirms the enduring strength of his vocal ability decades into the band’s career.
This MTV Unplugged version strips away the layers of pop production to unveil the song’s core — a tender ballad infused with hesitation, longing, and reflection rather than merely exuberance and joy. The slower pace transforms the chorus from a burst of excitement into an intimate appeal.
Watch the performance
The arrangement’s softness creates space around each note, inviting the listener to focus on the lyrical storytelling. The guitar and piano lend a sparse, elegant texture that complements Harket’s voice without overwhelming it, making the performance feel intimate and immediate.
This setting elevates subtle elements that the original synth-driven track often buried beneath its urgency. Phrasing nuances, dynamic shifts, and emotional inflections are easier to discern, transforming the song into a contemplative experience that resonates deeply.
Importantly, this is not a mere nostalgic rendition. Harket does not replicate his youthful voice but embraces his present-day vocal maturity. This approach lends authenticity to the interpretation, showcasing the band’s growth while honoring the song’s legacy.
The audience’s online engagement—millions have viewed this acoustic performance—highlights how a classic hit can be revitalized through reinterpretation. It reveals the song’s timeless qualities and a-ha’s ability to connect across generations.
This MTV Unplugged session was part of a 2017 Summer Solstice project. Its artistic aim was to reconsider classic songs by focusing on their emotional core rather than their original commercial production, a vision that this performance of “Take On Me” clearly fulfills.
The transformation also invites listeners to reconsider the affective possibilities of known pop hits. By slowing the song’s pace and reducing instrumentation, the familiar melody takes on new meanings and emotional resonances.
The subtle backing from the band supports rather than competes with Harket’s vocals. This changes the usual role of the chorus from energetic declaration to a moment filled with emotional uncertainty and vulnerability.
Comparisons with the original 1985 recording underline the stark contrast between textures and moods. While the original thrived on rhythmic drive and electronic brightness, the Unplugged take achieves its impact through tenderness and spaciousness.
The enduring appeal of ‘Take On Me’ is evident — it can be both a dynamic pop anthem and a touching acoustic ballad. This versatility speaks to strong songwriting and a-ha’s interpretive skill.
In sum, a-ha’s 2017 MTV Unplugged performance offers a beautifully intimate reading of ‘Take On Me’ that transcends decades, bringing new life to a beloved classic through artful arrangement and powerful, mature vocals.
Two more performances to explore
a-ha – The Sun Always Shines on TV ft. Ingrid Helene Håvik (Unplugged) (Live in Giske, Norway, 2017)
This companion video from the same 2017 MTV Unplugged session features another signature a-ha song with acoustic arrangement and guest vocals, continuing the reflective and intimate mood explored in ‘Take On Me.’
Hunting High and Low (Live on MTV Unplugged, Giske Harbour Hall, Giske, Norway, 6/22-6/23/2017)
This related performance showcases a-ha’s classic ballad in the same unplugged style, offering fans an additional glimpse into the band’s acoustic reinterpretations during their 2017 Giske live session.
