A-ha icon Terry Slater dies aged 85: 'The most important person in our career'

In a London flat, where three young Norwegians lived with a burning ambition and a degree of talent, Terry Slater saw something in them that others didn't. He took a chance on Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, Magne Furuholmen, and Morten Harket, the trio that would become A-ha, in 1983. Slater's decision would change the course of music history, launching the band's high-profile career and catapulting them to global stardom.

Born in the 1940s, Slater's own musical career began in the 1960s as a songwriter and bass player with the Everly Brothers, Isaac Donald Don Everly and Phillip Phil Everly. This stint would later influence his approach to managing A-ha. Slater's experience in the music industry, coupled with his willingness to take risks, laid the groundwork for A-ha's massive success. He joined the band's management team at a time when they were still relatively unknown, and his guidance helped shape their sound and career trajectory.

As A-ha's first manager, Slater played a pivotal role in their early years. He signed them with Warner Brothers Records, and over the next 12 years, the band would go on to achieve unprecedented success. Their 1985 hit "Take On Me" topped charts around the world, cementing their status as pop superstars. Slater's influence extended beyond A-ha; he also helped launch the careers of other notable acts, including Queen, Sex Pistols, Kate Bush, and Duran Duran.

On July 29, Magne Furuholmen paid tribute to Slater, crediting him with pioneering the first Norwegian artists to find global success. Furuholmen reflected on Slater's impact on their lives and careers, stating, "He's the singularly most important person in A-ha's music career.. A kind of father figure and good friend." Slater's legacy extends beyond A-ha; he played a significant role in shaping the music industry, paving the way for future generations of artists.

A-ha's relationship with Slater endured long after they parted ways with him in the late 1990s. He remained a crucial part of their band, often spoken of as the fourth member. In 2010, the band conducted a farewell tour, but Slater's influence continued to be felt. In 2021, he even made a cameo in A-ha: The Movie, evidence of the bond that remained between him and the band.

• Terry Slater died on July 29, aged 85.
• He was A-ha's first manager, taking on the band in 1983.
• Slater also helped launch the careers of Queen, Sex Pistols, Kate Bush, and Duran Duran.
• A-ha released their debut single, "Take On Me," in 1985.
• The band conducted a farewell tour in 2010 before reuniting in 2015.

As I reflect on Slater's life and career, I'm struck by the impact he had on the music industry. His willingness to take risks and believe in the potential of young artists paved the way for countless others. Slater's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and music fans alike.