Morten Harket: The Voice Behind A‑ha’s Biggest Hits
If you’ve ever heard the opening notes of "Take On Me" or sang along to "The Sun Always Shines on T.V.", you’ve heard Morten Harker’s unmistakable high‑range voice. The Norwegian singer rose to fame in the early ’80s and has kept fans hooked for more than four decades. In this guide we’ll walk through his early days, the A‑ha era, his solo projects, and why his voice still matters today.
How Morten Harket Got Started
Born in 1959 in Oslo, Morten grew up listening to rock, folk and the emerging pop sounds of the ’70s. He first performed in local bands, learning the ropes of live gigs and studio work. In 1982 he met guitarist Paul Waaktaar‑Sæther and keyboardist Magne Furuholmen, and the three formed A‑ha. Their chemistry clicked instantly, and within a year they landed a record deal that would change everything.
A‑ha’s Global Breakthrough
The 1985 single "Take On Me" exploded thanks to a groundbreaking music video that mixed live‑action shots with sketch animation. The track topped charts in the US, UK and dozens of other countries. Morten’s soaring falsetto became the song’s signature, and it set the tone for the rest of the band’s hits. Albums like Hunting High and Low and Scoundrel Days followed, delivering tracks such as "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." and "Train of Thought" that cemented the group’s place in pop history.
Even after the ’90s, A‑ha kept releasing new material, proving they weren’t a one‑hit wonder. Their 2000 comeback album Minor Earth Major Sky featured the hit "Minor Earth, Major Sky" and showed that Morten’s voice could still carry a modern sound while staying true to the band’s roots.
Beyond A‑ha, Morten pursued a solo career that highlighted his versatility. His first solo album, Poetenes Evangelium (1993), featured Norwegian lyrics and a more acoustic feel. Later albums like Letter from Egypt (2008) mixed pop, rock and electronic elements, and the title track became a favorite on European radio. Throughout his solo work, fans notice the same clear, emotive vocal style that made his band days famous.
What makes Morten’s voice stand out? It’s the mix of power and control. He can hit high notes without sounding strained, and he adds subtle vibrato that gives each line a personal touch. Many singers quote him as an influence, especially those who try to blend pop sensibility with a rock edge.
Even in sports arenas, Morten’s music shows up. Teams sometimes play A‑ha tracks during warm‑ups or halftime, tapping into the upbeat energy that pumps up crowds. The band’s timeless sound fits well with the excitement of a live game, proving that good music crosses into any arena.
If you’re new to Morten Harket, start with "Take On Me" and the album Hunting High and Low. Then dig into his solo work to hear how his style evolves. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious, Morten’s career offers a clear lesson: talent, consistency, and a voice that refuses to age can keep you relevant for generations.
That’s the quick look at Morten Harket’s journey—from Oslo’s small stages to worldwide stadiums. Keep an eye on his upcoming projects; he’s always ready to surprise us with fresh sounds while staying true to the voice that first grabbed our attention.
Kieran Lockhart, Jun, 5 2025
Morten Harket shares memories of A-ha’s humble beginnings in Oslo, their breakthrough with 'Take On Me,' and how their unstoppable confidence sparked an enduring global legacy. The band's 1985 chart-topping hit with its iconic video marked just the start of their creative journey.
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