Morten Harket, the iconic voice behind A-ha’s global smash “Take on Me”, has revealed he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease – a progressive condition that may bring an end to his singing career.
The 65-year-old Norwegian singer shared the news in a moving interview published on the band’s official website, explaining that although treatment has eased some of the condition’s physical toll, it has also affected his voice – the very heart of his artistry.
“I don’t feel like singing, and for me that’s a sign,” Harket said candidly. “As things stand now, that’s out of the question.”
For the past year, Harket has undergone deep brain stimulation, a complex treatment involving two surgeries to implant electrodes on both sides of his brain. The procedure delivers electrical impulses that help control tremors and muscle stiffness, but in Harket’s case, has also dulled his soaring vocal range.
Despite the gravity of the diagnosis, Harket said he feels at peace with it. He credits his 94-year-old father for encouraging him to “use whatever works” in coping with the challenges of the degenerative disorder.
“There’s so much to weigh up,” he said. “It’s a difficult balancing act between taking the medication and managing its side effects.”
A-ha last toured in 2020 and played what may be their final show together in 2022 at the Hollywood Bowl. Harket said he has continued to work on new music but is unsure whether the songs will ever be finished.
Still, in classic form, he offered fans words of hope rather than despair.
“Don’t worry about me,” he said. “Spend your energy addressing real problems… and know that I am being taken care of.”
Images: Instagram
