Morten Harket is a name synonymous with the iconic 1980s synth-pop band A-ha, best known for their global hit “Take On Me.” However, Harket’s musical journey extends far beyond this single track. From his early days in Norway to his recent health challenges, Morten Harket’s story is one of talent, resilience, and evolution.electricity-club.co.uk+9reuters.com+9biography.com+9a-ha.com
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born on September 14, 1959, in Kongsberg, Norway, Morten Harket grew up in a musically inclined family. His father was a doctor, and his mother was a teacher, but it was his father’s classical piano playing that sparked Harket’s interest in music. He began singing at an early age and was influenced by artists like Jimi Hendrix and Queen.biography.com+3a-ha4ever.com+3allmusic.com+3
Before joining A-ha, Harket was part of a blues band called Souldier Blue, performing in Oslo’s club scene. His unique vocal range and stage presence quickly set him apart, laying the foundation for his future success.kids.kiddle.co+1musicboard.app+1
Rise to Fame with A-ha
In 1982, Harket teamed up with Paul Waaktaar-Savoy and Magne Furuholmen to form A-ha. Their debut album, “Hunting High and Low”, released in 1985, catapulted them to international fame. The album featured hits like “Take On Me”, “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.”, and “Hunting High and Low”.a-ha.com+24reuters.com+24biography.com+24biography.com+5smoothradio.com+5reuters.com+5
The innovative music video for “Take On Me,” combining pencil-sketch animation with live-action, became a staple on MTV and won several awards. Harket’s soaring vocals, especially his ability to hit high notes with ease, became a defining feature of the band’s sound.
Solo Career and Artistic Exploration
While A-ha took breaks between albums and tours, Harket pursued a solo career that allowed him to explore different musical styles and themes. His solo discography includes:
Poetenes Evangelium (1993): A Norwegian-language album setting poetry to music.en.wikipedia.org+1last.fm+1
Wild Seed (1995): His first English-language solo album, featuring introspective tracks like “A Kind of Christmas Card.”amazon.com
Vogts Villa (1996): Another Norwegian album showcasing his versatility.
Letter from Egypt (2008): A return to English-language songs with a mature sound.
Out of My Hands (2012): Blending pop and electronic elements.
Brother (2014): An album reflecting on personal and global themes.
These projects allowed Harket to delve into personal narratives and experiment with different musical arrangements, showcasing his depth as an artist.smoothradio.com+25electricity-club.co.uk+25musicboard.app+25
Personal Life and Interests
Morten Harket has five children from different relationships. His daughter, Tomine Harket, has followed in his musical footsteps, collaborating with artists like Alan Walker on the track “Darkside.”en.wikipedia.org
Beyond music, Harket is passionate about environmental issues and has been involved in various campaigns promoting sustainability. He has also expressed interest in visual arts and literature, often drawing inspiration from these fields for his music.
Health Challenges and Resilience
In June 2025, Harket publicly revealed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition affecting movement and coordination. Despite the challenges, he underwent neurosurgery involving brain-implanted electrodes, which alleviated many physical symptoms. However, he continues to face difficulties, particularly with his voice, casting uncertainty over his future performances.en.wikipedia.org+3thesun.co.uk+3reuters.com+3
Harket remains optimistic, focusing on other artistic endeavors and encouraging fans to engage with pressing global issues, especially environmental conservation. He emphasizes that while singing has been a significant part of his identity, it doesn’t define him entirely.thesun.co.uk
Legacy and Influence
Morten Harket’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. His distinctive voice and emotive performances have inspired countless artists and fans worldwide. A-ha’s music continues to resonate with new generations, evident in the resurgence of “Take On Me” through various media platforms.thesun.co.uk+11reuters.com+11kids.kiddle.co+11
His commitment to authenticity, both in his music and personal life, serves as a testament to his character and dedication to his craft.
Conclusion
From his early days in Norway to international stardom with A-ha and a diverse solo career, Morten Harket exemplifies artistic integrity and resilience. Despite facing health challenges, he continues to inspire through his music and advocacy. His journey reminds us of the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of genuine artistry.
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