The Vampire Diaries: When 'Take On Me' Plays

Hey guys! So, let's talk about one of those totally unforgettable moments in The Vampire Diaries that still gets us hyped: the time A-ha's "Take On Me" absolutely slayed the scene. You know the one, right? It’s that incredibly badass sequence where Damon Salvatore, played by the one and only Ian Somerhalder, is just living his best villain life. This wasn't just any song drop; it was strategically placed to amplify Damon's charm, his danger, and frankly, his undeniable coolness. When this song hits, it’s a signal to the audience that Damon is in control, he’s having fun, and he’s about to do something you probably won’t see coming, but will definitely be mesmerized by. The genius of using "Take On Me" here isn't just about a catchy tune; it's about the juxtaposition. We're seeing this incredibly dark, brooding vampire, capable of immense violence and manipulation, grooving to an upbeat, synth-pop anthem from the 80s. This contrast is what makes the scene so compelling. It highlights Damon's complex character – he’s not just a one-dimensional bad guy. He has moments of humor, he enjoys life (in his own vampiric way), and he can be incredibly charismatic. This scene essentially became a defining moment for Damon's character arc, solidifying his status as a fan favorite. The writers brilliantly used the song to show, rather than tell, us about Damon’s persona. It’s a masterclass in using music to enhance storytelling, making the audience feel the thrill and the danger alongside Damon. This specific scene is often cited by fans as one of their favorite Damon moments, and a big part of that is thanks to the perfect execution of "Take On Me." It’s a reminder that even in a show filled with supernatural drama and high stakes, there’s always room for a little bit of iconic 80s flair.

The Exact Episode and Scene Breakdown

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty, guys. For all you fellow Vampire Diaries obsessives out there, the iconic "Take On Me" scene occurs in Season 5, Episode 11, titled "Catch Me If You Can." This episode drops us right into the thick of things with Elena and Damon trying to navigate their relationship amidst all the supernatural chaos, which, let's be real, is pretty much a constant in Mystic Falls. The specific moment the song kicks in is during a particularly tense yet exhilarating sequence where Damon is on the run. He’s being hunted by Markos and his Travelers, who are trying to use him for their own sinister purposes. Instead of panicking or immediately resorting to brute force, Damon, ever the showman, decides to have a little fun with his pursuers. He’s driving, windows down, and blasted with A-ha’s "Take On Me." He’s not just driving; he’s cruising. He’s got this smug, almost triumphant look on his face as he outmaneuvers the Travelers. This scene is pure Damon. It’s him at his most confident, most rebellious, and most entertaining. The visual of him, with his signature brooding intensity, lip-syncing (or at least looking like he is!) to the incredibly catchy synth-pop tune is just chef’s kiss. It perfectly encapsulates his character: he thrives under pressure, he enjoys the chase, and he’s not afraid to show off. The use of the song isn't just background music; it's integral to the scene’s impact. It injects a sense of playful defiance into what could have been a purely grim pursuit. It’s a moment where the audience is reminded of why they fell in love with Damon in the first place – his devil-may-care attitude, his ability to find amusement in dangerous situations, and his sheer charisma. This episode really dives into the complexities of the Travelers' plans and Damon's efforts to protect Elena and his friends, but this particular scene stands out as a beacon of pure, unadulterated Damon Salvatore coolness. It’s the kind of scene that makes you rewind and watch again, just to soak in all the awesomeness. It’s a testament to the show's clever writing and music selection that this song became so intrinsically linked with Damon’s character.

Why This Song Choice Was Pure Genius

Okay, let’s really dissect why "Take On Me" was such a stroke of genius for this particular scene with Damon. It’s not like the Vampire Diaries writers were just randomly scrolling through Spotify and landed on an 80s hit. Oh no, this was purposeful. The song itself, with its iconic synth riff and high-pitched vocals, is inherently energetic and somewhat whimsical. It’s a song about a chase, about wanting someone to take you with them. Now, pair that with Damon Salvatore, a centuries-old vampire who’s often on the run, either from enemies or his own dark past, and suddenly you’ve got layers, guys. The inherent upbeat tempo and infectious melody provide a stark contrast to Damon’s usual dark, brooding persona. This contrast is key. It doesn’t just make the scene fun; it elevates Damon’s characterization. It shows that even when he’s in a high-stakes, life-or-death situation – like being hunted by Travelers – he can still find a way to inject his own brand of flair and dark humor into it. He’s not just a victim; he’s enjoying the game. Furthermore, the lyrical theme of "Take On Me" – a desire for connection, for someone to embrace them – subtly mirrors Damon’s own underlying longing for acceptance and love, especially from Elena. While he’s outwardly projecting an image of a confident, in-control vampire, the choice of this song hints at the vulnerability he rarely lets show. It’s a brilliant narrative device that adds depth to his character without needing lengthy exposition. The 80s vibe also adds a retro cool factor that’s undeniably Damon. He’s an old soul, after all, and bringing in a classic hit from a bygone era feels authentic to his long existence. It taps into a sense of nostalgia for the audience, too, making the moment even more resonant. Ultimately, the selection of "Take On Me" wasn't just about picking a popular song; it was about using music to underscore Damon's complex personality, his rebellious spirit, and his hidden depths. It perfectly captured the essence of his character in that moment: powerful, dangerous, charismatic, and ultimately, a little bit lonely, all set to an unforgettable 80s beat. It’s a perfect example of how music supervision can make or break a scene, and in this case, it absolutely made it.

Damon's Character and the Song's Resonance

Let’s dive a little deeper, shall we? Damon Salvatore is, without a doubt, one of the most captivating characters to ever grace the small screen, and the placement of "Take On Me" in Season 5, Episode 11, really hammers home why. This song, guys, is more than just background noise; it's a soundtrack to Damon's internal world, even if he's not consciously aware of it. Think about it: "Take On Me" is an 80s synth-pop anthem known for its driving beat and high-energy chorus. It screams confidence, a bit of swagger, and a willingness to take risks. This is exactly the persona Damon projects to the world. He’s the slick, dangerous vampire who’s always a few steps ahead, who thrives on chaos, and who doesn’t shy away from a fight – or a chase. When he’s speeding away from the Travelers in that scene, windows down, music blasting, he embodies the song’s spirit. He’s enjoying the thrill of the pursuit, relishing the fact that he’s outsmarting his enemies. It’s a display of his supreme confidence and his often-stated belief that he's the 'most competent' vampire around. But here's where it gets really interesting, guys. Beyond the surface-level swagger, "Take On Me" also carries an undertone of longing and desire. The lyrics, "I’ll be chasing you / Forever and always," coupled with the plea, "Take on me / (Take on me) / Take me on / (Take on me) / I’ll be gone / In a day or two," speak to a deep-seated need for connection and perhaps even a fear of abandonment. This resonates so hard with Damon’s entire character arc. For centuries, he’s been searching for something to anchor him, for someone to truly see him and accept him, flaws and all. Whether it was Katherine, or later, Elena, his entire existence has been defined by this pursuit of love and belonging. So, while he’s physically outrunning the Travelers, emotionally, he’s embodying that lyrical chase – the chase for acceptance, the chase for a love that will 'take him on.' The 80s vibe itself is also a nod to Damon’s vintage cool. He’s lived through decades, and incorporating a classic from the era where he likely developed much of his modern persona just feels right. It’s a little wink to the audience about his long history and his enduring, albeit complex, style. So, when "Take On Me" plays, it’s not just a fun musical cue; it’s a multi-layered commentary on Damon’s outward bravado masking his inward vulnerability and his eternal quest for love. It's a genius pairing that perfectly encapsulates the duality of Damon Salvatore. We love him because he’s this epic, bad-boy vampire, but we also connect with him because of the underlying humanity and longing he so rarely lets us see. This song unlocks that for us in that unforgettable moment. It's a true testament to the power of music in storytelling, making a single scene epic and deeply meaningful.