A-Ha’s Morten Harket Fights Parkinson’s: Will His Iconic Voice Return?
I suppose I’d better break this down for you: A-Ha frontman Morten Harket just announced a Parkinson’s diagnosis that might silence his legendary falsetto. According to People magazine, the 62-year-old singer first noticed a subtle tremor in his right hand during rehearsals late last year. When it spread to his legs, he sought a neurologist’s opinion—and BBC News confirms that tests revealed early-stage Parkinson’s, a progressive disorder affecting movement control and muscle coordination.
You probably didn’t memorize all the medical jargon, so here’s the layman’s version: Parkinson’s attacks the brain’s dopamine-producing cells, leaving patients with stiffness, tremors, and slower motions. For Harket, whose career hinges on precise breath control and fluid stage moves, that spells trouble. He told People, “I’ve always relied on my voice to convey emotion. Now I’m learning to cope with uncertainty.” His management has paused any tour plans for 2024 so he can focus on therapy and voice exercises—research-backed methods recommended by neurologists at the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Let’s unpack why this matters: Harket’s vocals defined an era. His 1985 hit “Take On Me” vaulted A-Ha into pop royalty, largely due to his ethereal high notes and dynamic range. Rolling Stone notes that few vocalists have matched his blend of clarity and power. Now, specialists say targeted physical therapy and medication (namely levodopa) can ease some symptoms, but there’s no cure. Harket’s team insists he’s determined to rehabilitate, yet admits that future performances depend on how his body responds to treatment.
Of course, you might be wondering how the music world is reacting. Industry insiders tell Billboard that colleagues like Bono and Annie Lennox have privately reached out with words of support. Meanwhile, fan forums are abuzz, sharing old concert footage and urging Harket to document his recovery journey. There’s talk of a live-streamed benefit concert later this year—though nothing’s confirmed.
In short, here’s what you need to know: Morten Harket’s Parkinson’s diagnosis is real, his treatment plan is underway, and the fate of his voice hangs in the balance. Keep an eye on official A-Ha channels for updates, because this story is far from over. Glad I could clear that up for you—will he hit those high notes again? Stay tuned.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People magazine, BBC News, Rolling Stone
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
