13 July 2011

The first Norwegian #1 in USA: “Take on Me”





Did you know that: A-ha was the first Norwegian band to reach a #1 in USA; the first title for “Take on Me” was “Lesson One” and the song only became a #1, in USA, after two failed releases in UK?



Written Magne Furuholmen, Morten Harket and Pal Waaktaar
Original Version A-ha
Original Song's Title Take on Me
Year 1985

BUY THIS SONG



Cover Version Reel Big Fish
Song Title Take on Me
Year 1999

BUY THIS SONG



Cover Version Graziella Schazad  
Song Title Take on Me
Year 2010

BUY THIS SONG



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The Norwegian band, A-ha, only got recognition for their “Take on Me” song after Warner Bros.(USA) invested in a revolutionary and (later) multiply awarded  video for the song. The video was released to dance clubs and television a month before the record was available in stores or played on the radio becoming a huge success.

Apart from brilliant chart performance in USA "Take on Me" was released a third time in UK peaking the #2. The song was largely successful across the rest of Europe, reaching the top of singles charts in many countries and the Eurochart Hot 100 where remained for nine weeks.

Between the many covers made for “Take on Me” STD highlights the ska punk version by the American band Reel Big Fish and by the German singer, Graziella Schazad.

Spot the Difference!
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