“The Sun Always Shines on T.V.” is a song by the Norwegian synth-pop band a-ha, released in November 1985 with “Driftwood” on the B-side as the third single from their debut album Hunting High and Low. While a-ha is best known for their massive hit “Take On Me,” “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.” also became a major success, especially in Europe. It reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, making it their only chart-topper in the UK, and solidified the band’s status as one of the biggest acts of the 1980s.
Lyrically, the song is more introspective and melancholic than its upbeat predecessor “Take On Me.” It explores themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the superficiality of modern life. The title suggests the idea that things often appear perfect and glamorous on television, but reality is much darker and more complicated. The lyrics convey a sense of emotional distance and longing, making it one of a-ha’s more emotionally resonant tracks. It was filmed at Udney Hall Gardens and the Victorian Gothic Church of Saint Alban the Martyr, both situated in Teddington, Richmond upon Thames, in England.
Musically, “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.” is characterized by its dramatic, orchestral arrangement and powerful synth-driven sound. The song begins quietly with a haunting introduction, before building into a sweeping, grandiose production featuring lush synthesizers, strong guitar riffs, and a powerful rhythm section. Morten Harket’s soaring vocals, especially during the high-pitched chorus, are a standout feature, showcasing his impressive vocal range.
The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Barron (who also directed the iconic “Take On Me” video), is a mix of surrealism and stark visuals, continuing the artistic and cinematic style a-ha became known for. The video starts where “Take On Me” left off, showing Morten Harket returning to the real world with his love interest, before transitioning into a performance by the band in a grand, gothic church. The visual contrasts between the two settings reflect the song’s themes of fantasy versus reality.
Despite being overshadowed internationally by “Take On Me,” “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.” was a huge hit, particularly in Europe, and became one of a-ha’s signature songs. It showed the band’s range, moving beyond the upbeat, synth-pop sound into more complex, dramatic territory. The song’s lasting appeal continues, and it remains a favorite among fans of 1980s music and synth-pop.