A-ha frontman Morten Harket announces he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Morten Harket, the iconic frontman of the renowned synth-pop band A-ha, has confirmed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, as disclosed in a statement posted on the band’s official website. The announcement comes amidst ongoing challenges related to his health and vocal performance.
In an account shared with Jan Omdahl, Harket detailed that he underwent a deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedure in June 2024, targeting the left side of his brain. This procedure was followed by a similar operation in December for the right side. Parkinson’s disease, as outlined by the Cleveland Clinic, is a neurodegenerative disorder that leads to the deterioration of certain brain functions, impacting muscle control, balance, and movement, along with cognitive and mental health aspects.
Omdahl, who authored the band’s 2003 biography, “The Swing of Things,” emphasized that while Harket may appear symptom-free on certain days, it does not necessarily reflect his overall health status. He described Harket’s relentless efforts to manage his condition, which include balancing medication, monitoring the effects of electrical stimulation in his brain, ensuring proper sleep, managing blood sugar, and maintaining a positive mindset. Despite these efforts, success is not guaranteed.
The singer candidly expressed concerns regarding his vocal capabilities, indicating an acknowledgment that he may not regain full technical control of his voice, even as he remains engaged in creating unreleased music. He articulated the ongoing challenge of being able to express himself vocally, a task currently perceived as unfeasible due to his condition.
Despite these personal battles, Harket reassured his fans, encouraging them not to worry about him. He urged them instead to focus their energy on addressing more pressing issues and affirmed that he is receiving the necessary care.
A-ha, formed in 1982 and comprising members Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, achieved global acclaim for hits such as “Take On Me,” “Cry Wolf,” and “The Sun Always Shines on TV.” Although the band initially disbanded in 2009, they momentarily reunited in 2015, continuing their legacy in the music industry. Notably, the music video for “Take On Me” surpassed one billion views in early 2020 and recently crossed the two billion mark in September, highlighting the enduring appeal of A-ha’s music for fans worldwide.
For further developments on Harket’s journey and A-ha’s future endeavors, stay tuned to updates from Media News Source.
