90s Synth-Pop Band Frontman Reveals Parkinson's Diagnosis
A-ha's lead singer, Morten Harket, has just revealed to fans that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease — a brain disorder that affects movement, caused by the loss of nerve cells that produce dopamine.
In a statement posted on the band's official website on Wednesday, June 4, the Norwegian singer, 65, shared that he has had multiple brain surgeries and is actively managing his symptoms.
The website first reads, 'This isn't the sort of news anyone wants to deliver to the world, but here it is: Morten has Parkinson's disease.'
Following the announcement, Harket reflected on his diagnosis, saying, 'I've got no problem accepting the diagnosis. Over time, I've taken to heart my 94-year-old father's attitude toward the gradual changes of the body: 'I use whatever works.''
At first, the singer explained, he kept his diagnosis private, but has since decided to share it openly with his followers.
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'Part of me wanted to share this. Like I said, accepting the diagnosis wasn't difficult for me; it's my need for peace and quiet to focus on my work that held me back,' he explained.
'I'm doing my best to prevent my body from declining. It's a challenging balance between taking medication and managing its side effects,' Harket added. "There's a lot to consider when trying to mimic the body's natural way of handling complex movements, social interactions, and everyday life in general.'
After his diagnosis, Harket detailed his treatment journey, revealing that he underwent a neurosurgical procedure called deep brain stimulation (DBS) in June 2024, which significantly relieved many of his physical symptoms.
He also had another successful DBS procedure on the right side of his brain in December 2024.
However, Harket noted that Parkinson's has affected his voice. 'Problems with my voice are one of the many uncertainties regarding my creative future.'
He shared, 'I don't really know if I can sing anymore. I don't feel like singing, and for me, that's a sign. I'm open-minded about what works; I don't expect to have full technical control. The real question is whether I can express myself with my voice. Right now, that seems unlikely. But I don't know if I'll be able to manage it in the future.'
A-ha was formed in 1982 by Harket alongside Paul Waaktaar-Savoy and Magne Furuholmen. The band quickly rose to fame in 1985 with their debut album Hunting High and Low. The beloved album featured hit songs like 'Take On Me' and 'The Sun Always Shines on TV.'
90s Synth-Pop Band Frontman Reveals Parkinson's Diagnosis first appeared on Parade on Jun 4, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
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