Van Morrison is one of the most influential and celebrated singer-songwriters of the 20th century. Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1945, he first gained fame as the lead singer of the group Them in the mid-1960s, but it was his solo career that solidified his reputation as a musical icon. With a career spanning more than five decades, Morrison has released more than 40 albums and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Known for his soulful voice and poetic lyrics, Morrison’s music has transcended genres, blending rock, folk, blues, and jazz to create a sound that is both unique and timeless.
With so many amazing songs to choose from, compiling a list of the top 10 best Van Morrison songs of all time is no easy task. However, the following songs are some of his most beloved and enduring works, showcasing Morrison’s unparalleled talent as a songwriter and performer. From his early days with Them to his later solo career, these songs have stood the test of time and continue to inspire new generations of fans. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, these 10 songs are essential listening for anyone who appreciates great music.
1. Someone Like You
With its soulful delivery and tender lyrics, one of the most iconic songs by Van Morrison is the emotionally charged "Someone Like You." This timeless classic has captured the hearts of many fans since its release, and it continues to be a fan favorite even today. Here's why:
- Its simple melody and acoustic accompaniments that complement the stirring vocals
- The universal theme of longing for someone who has left an indelible mark in your life
- How it conveys raw vulnerability while still sounding hopeful and optimistic
- The powerful imagery employed in the poetic lyrics that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level
In addition to these points, it's worth noting that "Someone Like You" is also notable for having cemented Morrison's reputation as one of the most evocative songwriters of our time.
If you haven't listened to "Someone Like You" yet, you're missing out on one of Van Morrison's greatest hits. Don't wait any longer – give it a listen today, and get swept up in its intense emotionality and poignant lyricism.
Van Morrison reminds us to express our love every day, but if you really want to impress someone, play them 'Have I Told You Lately' on repeat.
2. Have I Told You Lately
This timeless classic from Van Morrison's extensive discography, expresses what the heart wants to say but often doesn’t get the chance to. 'Have I Told You Lately' radiates warmth, love, and appreciation towards loved ones. It reminds listeners to cherish the people in their lives while they can. Its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved wedding song for generations.
Van Morrison's voice carries emotion within each word he sings, making 'Have I Told You Lately' an iconic tune among his plethora of hits. The simplicity of the instrumentation conveys its message clearly and precisely, allowing the listener to fully absorb its beauty.
The song was released in 1989 on his album "Avalon Sunset" but has since been covered by countless musicians worldwide. It's no surprise that it remains one of Van Morrison's most famous songs and continues to touch hearts worldwide with its message of love and gratitude.
Pro Tip: 'Have I Told You Lately' is a perfect choice for a first dance song at weddings or as background music for intimate moments between couples.
Listening to 'Dweller on The Threshold' is like taking a trip through Van Morrison's soul, except you're not sure if you'll make it back unscathed.
3. Dweller on The Threshold
Van Morrison's transcendental masterpiece, this song is an introspective journey of the human soul. The lyrics speak of the Celtic myth of a 'dweller on the threshold' that guards the doorway between this world and the next, symbolizing the fear and uncertainties one faces when on the brink of a spiritual awakening. The music is ethereal and haunting with its intricate arrangements, featuring both traditional and contemporary instruments. It's an emotional and thought-provoking experience for any listener.
The mystic theme runs through Dweller on The Threshold with its emphasis on self-discovery and spiritual awakening. Van Morrison's voice drones at times mirroring his words – "By the side of my own volition, I'll decide what's going to be." Some listeners might find the multipart harmonies repetitive but they are really an interplay between instrumentals and vocals that overtakes you gradually with an intimate depth.
One standout element in this piece is Van Morrison's use of symbolism in order to reveal his interpretation of Celtic legends. Within these tales there exist gatekeepers who guard thresholds separating worlds from one another — just as we all strive to create meaning within our individual lives from moment-to-moment transitions because there is no objective significance out there; only subjective insight based on our personal histories.
Don't miss out on hearing Van Morrison's 'Dweller on The Threshold'! Its poetic beauty coupled with its sweet melody will leave you spellbound. This composition speaks to anyone searching for meaning within themselves or trying to understand their surroundings better. Let's immerse ourselves in it alongside Morrison today!
Van Morrison's 'In The Garden' will make you feel like you're in the middle of a mystical forest, even if you're actually just sitting on your couch in your pajamas.
4. In The Garden
Van Morrison's "In The Garden" is a soulful ballad that captures the essence of love and spirituality. This song features on our list of top 10 Van Morrison songs as it remains one of his most iconic and memorable compositions to date.
| Artist | Song | Album | Year Released |
|---|---|---|---|
| Van Morrison | In The Garden | No Guru, No Method, No Teacher | 1986 |
This masterpiece tells the story of a spiritual awakening experienced by an individual while walking in a garden. The lyrics invoke imagery of nature and ask existential questions about the purpose of life. With its soulful melody and powerful lyrics, "In The Garden" showcases Morrison's artistic prowess and cements his position in the pantheon of musical legends.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the beauty of "In The Garden," listen to the track with a good pair of headphones to pick up on subtle nuances in production and instrumentation.
Van Morrison's ode to brown-eyed beauties proves that you don't need blue eyes to be a classic.
5. Brown Eyed Girl
This song by Van Morrison uses catchy melodies and simple lyrics to create a timeless classic. 'The Girl with Brown Eyes', as referred to in the song, embodies Morrison's carefree attitude towards life in the 1960s. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation are perfect for that feel-good summer road trip playlist. Brown Eyed Girl has stood the test of time and is loved by generations of music fans worldwide for its raw energy and catchy hooks.
In addition, some music scholars argue that the song's popularity comes from its creative use of instruments, including harmonica, guitar solos, tambourine beat, and backing vocals. The rhythm section creates an effortlessly flowing rock tune that is easy to dance or sing along to. Moreover, Morrison's vocal delivery style complements the instrumental melody perfectly while still delivering a relatable story about youthful adventures.
Interestingly, this song was originally an exuberant demo recording but received extensive editing from producer Bert Berns before its final release. This transformation is evident in Morrison's more polished sound compared to his earlier work. Despite this difference, people admire Brown Eyed Girl equally as one of his most iconic singles.
These reasons make it clear why Brown Eyed Girl is considered one of the ten best Van Morrison Songs ever created. If you're yet to experience this timeless classic fully, make sure you add it to your playlist today!
Van Morrison's 'Crazy Love' will have you feeling like you're back in the late 60s, except this time you won't need to drop acid to experience pure psychedelic bliss.
6. Crazy Love
This entry on the list of '10 Best Van Morrison Songs of All Time' showcases the timeless classic, which is 'Crazy Love'. This piece mesmerizes listeners with its heartwarming lyrics and soulful melodies. While some may argue that it could be considered too sentimental or sappy, its universal appeal has made it a beloved track for generations to enjoy.
'Crazy Love' was initially released in 1970 as part of the album 'Moondance'. It quickly rose to popularity, reaching #17 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's lyrical beauty lies in its simplicity. It captures the feeling of romance and devotion effortlessly through lines like "I can hear her heartbeat from a thousand miles" and "she gives me love, love, love, love, crazy love." Such poetic yet straightforward wording makes this song an enduring masterpiece.
It's worth noting that 'Crazy Love' has also been covered by multiple artists over the years, including Michael Buble and Bryan Adams. This fact speaks to the song's timelessness and ability to connect with people all over the world.
In a Rolling Stone interview from 2015, Van Morrison shared his thoughts on why this song has stood the test of time: "It seems to have transcended generations. (…) Everybody seems to relate to it." And he's absolutely right – whether you first heard it when it was released or just stumbled upon it recently, something about 'Crazy Love' speaks directly to your heart.
Van Morrison was definitely stoned out of his mind when he wrote 'And It Stoned Me', but hey, it produced an absolute masterpiece.
7. And It Stoned Me
This track is one of the most beloved compositions by Van Morrison. It is a song that feels like a warm embrace, and its soothing melody has been captivating audiences for decades. "And It Stoned Me," through its lyrics, captures the essence of childhood memories and paints vivid images of a serene countryside setting. The simple instrumentation in this song creates a nostalgic atmosphere, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the lyrics.
As the song unfolds, Morrison's soulful delivery adds layers of depth to his storytelling. His voice blends perfectly with the acoustic guitar strums, piano notes, and backing vocals. The track's themes are relatable to many; it speaks about life's simple pleasures that often get forgotten in our daily lives.
The song is an excellent example of Morrison's ability to balance thought-provoking ideas with beautiful melodies. The track is timeless and leaves an imprint on anyone who listens to it more than once.
"And It Stoned Me" showcases Morrison's unique sound and songwriting style. While it may not be as popular as some other tracks on this list, it features his artistry at its best.
- Tupelo Honey: It's like honey for your ears, except you can't put it on toast.
8. Tupelo Honey
The song ranked 8th among Van Morrison's best tracks is a powerful ballad titled after a particular type of honey.
- Tupelo Honey features poetic and dreamy lyrics that feel almost spiritual
- The song's bluesy, soulful melody sets an introspective mood
- Morrison’s vocals are tender and emotive, delivering lines with utmost sincerity
- Its acoustic guitar, harmonica riffs, and soft percussion create a warm ambiance
- The refrain “She's as sweet as Tupelo honey” expresses love and adoration for someone special
- The track has been covered by numerous artists and featured in popular movies/TV shows over the years
In the larger scheme of things, while Tupelo Honey falls into the category of romantic tunes that capture the essence of love and devotion with delicate ease, its simplicity is what makes it timeless. This track taps into listeners' emotions with uncanny precision.
Missing out on this exquisite gem would be unfortunate. If you haven't already heard it or experienced its impact, tune in soon to know what you've been missing out on! Van Morrison's 'Days Like This' will have you feeling nostalgic for a time you never lived in.
9. Days Like This
Van Morrison's stirring and soulful voice captures the essence of life in 'Days Like This'. The song emanates positivity, offering an insight into finding hope in the most dire of times. Its lyrics speak of how love and solace can be found even in circumstances that appear insurmountable. Through its uplifting rhythm section and Morrison's signature growl, 'Days Like This' showcases the beauty to be found even in life's hardships.
The song offers an invitation to embrace the present and appreciate its beauty while acknowledging that troubling times will come and go. It has a timeless quality that resonates with listeners, striking a chord with generations past and present alike.
'Days Like This' is one of Van Morrison's most beloved tracks, spawning an enduring legacy that endures to this day.
This timeless classic remains a favorite due to its authentic view of love and humanity. The song is so iconic it continues to influence modern-day music while never losing sight of what makes it special. Van Morrison left an indelible imprint on this track, crafting a silver lining amid life’s clouds, inspiring hits for both optimistic futures and critical moments throughout his career.
Enter the mystical world of Van Morrison, where his songs transport you to a place where the only thing that matters is the music.
10. Into The Mystic
Van Morrison's song 'Into The Mystic' is a soulful track that captures the essence of life's journey. Its poetic lyrics and melody have touched millions of listeners over the years. The song, an ode to the mystical forces of nature, conveys a sense of wonder and awe.
The guitar and saxophone solos are some of the highlights in this timeless classic. This song has garnered critical acclaim from music lovers worldwide, making it one of Van Morrison's most beloved works. The beautiful imagery used in 'Into The Mystic' has earned it a place in many people's hearts.
'Into the Mystic' has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, commercials, and documentaries. Its popularity continues to grow as more people discover its beauty and soulful vibe.
This song is a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience the enchanting musical style of Van Morrison. One cannot afford to miss out on this masterpiece that has become an iconic representation of Irish rock music culture. Give it a listen and be enchanted!
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
