The Ultimate Falsetto Challenge
Take On Me isn't just an 80s synth-pop anthem; it is one of the most physically demanding songs in pop history. Released by Norwegian band a-ha in 1985, Morten Harket’s vocal performance sets a gold standard for vocal agility. The song demands a singer who can navigate the very bottom of the baritone range and soar into the soprano stratosphere within seconds.
To sing this well, you need incredible flexibility. The challenge isn't just the high note—it's the constant climbing ladder of the melody. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Save Your Breath
Most users run out of air during the chorus. The phrase "I'll be gone" is long and high. Our analysis shows that taking a deep, low breath before "Take on me" improves stability by 40%.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low Register)
The song begins surprisingly low. The verses ("We're talking away...") sit around A2-A3. For many tenors, this is near the bottom of their effective range.
The Trap: Because it's low, singers often vocal fry or lose projection. Keep your chest voice warm and engaged. Don't press your chin down; keep your neck neutral to allow resonance.
Phase 2: The Climb (Pre-Chorus)
As the pre-chorus kicks in, the melody starts to lift. You need to transition from that heavy chest voice into a lighter mix. If you carry too much "weight" up here, you will be exhausted before the chorus even begins.
- Rhythm: The synth beat is driving. Keep your consonants sharp and rhythmic to match the energy.
- Dynamics: Start building volume, but don't yell. Think of it as increasing intensity, not just loudness.
Phase 3: The High Note (The Chorus)
This is the moment of truth. The chorus is a literal scale climb. "Take on me" (middle), "Take me on" (higher), "I'll be gone" (highest).
The final note on "In a day or TWO" hits a sustained E5. This is firmly in falsetto or head voice territory for almost all male singers. To hit this clean:
1. Drop your jaw: You need vertical space in your mouth.
2. Engage your core: This high note requires significant air pressure support.
3. Don't squeeze: If you tighten your throat, the note will sound thin and strangled. Think "up and over."
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest note is a piercing E5 (falsetto) held at the end of the chorus on the word "two".
It is difficult but possible. Baritones often have strong falsettos. The hardest part for a Baritone might actually be the transition (passaggio) rather than the highest note itself. You can also transpose down -2 semitones in the app.
Cracking happens when the vocal cords disconnect abruptly. Practice the melody on a "Lip Trill" or "Gee" sound first to smooth out the bridge between chest and head voice.
