Pal Waaktaar, born on July 6, 1961, in Oslo, Norway, is a prominent musician and songwriter best known as a founding member of the synth-pop band a-ha. The group achieved global fame in the 1980s with their distinctive sound that combined catchy melodies with electronic instrumentation. Their hit single "Take On Me," released in 1984, is particularly notable for its innovative music video and remains a defining track of the decade. Waaktaar's songwriting, characterized by introspective lyrics and memorable hooks, significantly contributed to a-ha's success, with other notable works including "The Sun Always Shines on T.V." and "Hunting High and Low." Beyond a-ha, he has collaborated with various artists and explored solo projects, such as his work with the band Savoy. Waaktaar's impact on music extends beyond his commercial success; he helped pioneer the use of synthesizers in pop music, influencing a generation of artists in the genre. His contributions continue to resonate, as a-ha remains an enduring figure in the pop landscape, celebrated for their unique blend of 80s synth-pop and timeless melodies.