a-ha: Timeless Synth-Pop Icons in Focus
As a concert photographer, few bands have left such an indelible mark on both music history and visual culture as a-ha. Known for their iconic hit «Take On Me» this Norwegian trio — Morten Harket (vocals), Magne Furuholmen (keyboards) and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy (guitar) — did more than just define the sound of the 80s; they revolutionized how we experience music visually and emotionally.
A-ha burst onto the global scene in 1985 with one of the most unforgettable music videos ever created. «Take On Me», blending live-action and animation, became a timeless classic, making the band synonymous with both cutting-edge creativity and timeless synth-pop melodies. Capturing this kind of musical legacy through photography feels like preserving a piece of pop culture history.
But a-ha’s legacy is more than just one hit. Over the decades, they’ve continued to evolve, blending electronic elements with heartfelt ballads, always staying true to their melodic roots. From the soaring vocals of Morten Harket to the intricate arrangements of Magne Furuholmen and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, their sound remains distinctive, introspective, and cinematic.
While «Take On Me» and «The Sun Always Shines on TV» brought them international fame, a-ha’s discography is full of hidden gems that showcase their depth and versatility. Albums like Scoundrel Days (1986) and Memorial Beach (1993) revealed darker, more mature themes, while their later works like Foot of the Mountain (2009) and Cast in Steel (2015) prove that they can still produce atmospheric, emotionally charged music for a new generation.
Photographing a-ha live is like stepping into a time capsule, yet it feels completely fresh. Their stage presence is magnetic, with Harket’s ethereal voice soaring effortlessly through decades of iconic songs. The energy they bring to each performance is electric, but there’s also a deep sense of nostalgia — a reminder of just how much their music has impacted fans around the world.
For me, capturing a-ha in concert is about more than just documenting a show. It’s about freezing a moment in time, where music and memory intertwine, and where each note carries with it decades of history. It’s a reminder that great music — and great artistry — never truly fades.
Stay tuned for a series of my favorite shots from a-ha’s latest tour, where the magic of the 80s meets the modern era in a symphony of sound and light.
