Few artists have managed to fuse soul, rock, jazz, and mysticism with the poetic brilliance of Van Morrison. From the smoky clubs of Belfast to the global stage, Morrison has carved a unique path through music history, crafting songs that feel both timeless and deeply personal. Whether he’s channeling spiritual longing, romantic devotion, or the simple joy of rhythm and life, his voice carries a rare authenticity that resonates across generations. With a catalog that spans decades and genres, selecting just ten songs is no easy task—but some tracks have risen above the rest to become iconic, beloved, and endlessly played.
In this definitive list, we dive into the top 10 most popular Van Morrison songs of all time—not just based on chart performance, but on cultural impact, emotional power, and lasting appeal. These are the songs that fans return to time and again, the ones that inspire cover versions, soundtrack unforgettable moments, and showcase Morrison’s genius in all its soulful glory. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee or a curious newcomer, this journey through Van’s greatest hits is sure to stir your spirit and remind you why his music continues to stand the test of time. Let the caravan roll—here comes Van at his finest.
1. “Brown Eyed Girl” (1967)
Released in 1967 as Van Morrison’s first solo single after parting ways with the band Them, “Brown Eyed Girl” is a jubilant ode to young love and sunlit memories. Its opening guitar riff is instantly recognizable, and the chorus is practically impossible not to sing along to. The track, which appeared on Morrison’s Blowin’ Your Mind! album, was never expected to become a hit—but its blend of catchy melody, nostalgic lyrics, and infectious energy launched Morrison into mainstream stardom. Beneath its carefree vibe lies a wistful look at innocence and intimacy lost, with lyrics reminiscing about skipping stones and laughing in the rain. Originally, the song contained more risqué content, but the lyrics were toned down for radio play—highlighting the tension between Morrison’s raw songwriting and the conservatism of 1960s airwaves. Over the years, Morrison has expressed mixed feelings about the song’s commercial sheen, even distancing himself from it at times. Still, “Brown Eyed Girl” remains a staple of classic rock radio, a rite of passage for cover bands, and a musical time capsule that never fades. Whether it’s your first listen or your hundredth, it still has the power to take you back—to a summer that may never have existed, but feels real every time.
2. “Moondance” (1970)
“Moondance,” the elegant title track from Van Morrison’s 1970 album, is a genre-blending gem that seamlessly fuses jazz, swing, and pop into a smooth, seductive masterpiece. From the moment the walking bass and jazz piano line kick in, the song sets a sophisticated yet playful tone. Lyrically, Morrison paints a romantic scene under the autumn moon, filled with imagery of starlit skies and crisp nights—celebrating not only romantic connection but nature itself. His vocals are both controlled and expressive, balancing jazz phrasing with soulful spontaneity. The saxophone solo adds an unforgettable flair, elevating the track into something that belongs both on the dancefloor and in a smoky lounge. Interestingly, despite its popularity, “Moondance” wasn’t released as a single until 1977, years after it became a fan favorite. That delay didn’t stop it from becoming one of Morrison’s most enduring songs, frequently covered by artists from Michael Bublé to jazz ensembles. More than just a love song, “Moondance” feels like a carefully choreographed conversation between instruments and voice. It’s a track that lingers—inviting listeners into a world of elegance, longing, and joy, all wrapped in Morrison’s unique blend of Irish soul and American jazz tradition.
3. “Into the Mystic” (1970)
Few songs in Van Morrison’s catalog are as spiritually resonant and emotionally evocative as “Into the Mystic,” a standout from his Moondance album. Released in 1970, this track offers more than just a listening experience—it’s a journey inward. From the warm strum of the acoustic guitar to the gentle swell of horns, every element contributes to a soundscape that feels both grounded and otherworldly. The lyrics, with their imagery of sailing and mysticism, have been interpreted as metaphors for love, self-discovery, or even the passage into the afterlife. Morrison’s delivery is both soulful and reverent, as if he’s channeling something greater than himself. Lines like “I want to rock your gypsy soul” and “we were born before the wind” elevate the track from mere ballad to spiritual hymn. Unlike pop songs that aim for catchy hooks, “Into the Mystic” unfolds gently, its power lying in its atmosphere and emotion. It’s a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the transcendence found in quiet moments. Whether heard at dusk, on a road trip, or during a reflective pause in life, “Into the Mystic” invites listeners to leave the world behind and sail toward something eternal.
4. “Domino” (1970)
With “Domino,” released in 1970 on the album His Band and the Street Choir, Van Morrison lets loose in one of his most exuberant and energetic tracks. Right from the jump, it’s all groove and movement, with a blast of brassy horns and a rhythm section that seems built to get you dancing. Peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Domino” stands as one of Morrison’s biggest commercial hits—a testament to its infectious spirit. Unlike some of his more introspective or mystical works, this song is all about letting go and riding the groove. Lyrically, it’s simpler and more playful, leaning into call-and-response patterns and feel-good repetition. But that doesn’t make it any less powerful. “Domino” channels Morrison’s deep roots in soul and R&B, echoing the sound of New Orleans funk with a Celtic twist. There’s a raw, live-band feel here—as if the track was captured in a single take, with Morrison grinning through every note. It’s a reminder that beneath his poetic depth and spiritual musings, Morrison is also a master of rhythm and soul. “Domino” is joy in musical form—a three-minute celebration of sound, movement, and unfiltered exuberance.
5. “Wild Night” (1971)
“Wild Night,” the opening track on Van Morrison’s Tupelo Honey album from 1971, bursts out of the gate with a swaggering groove and a sense of restless excitement. It’s a song that captures the pulse of nightlife and the freedom of giving in to the unknown. Built around a driving bassline and spirited horn section, the track combines rock, soul, and R&B into a vibrant, irresistible mix. Morrison’s vocals are loose and gritty, brimming with energy as he sings about surrendering to the thrill of the evening. The lyrics suggest a transition—from the quiet of day to the possibility of night, from routine to adventure. Though it was only a modest hit upon release, the song gained fresh life when John Mellencamp and Meshell Ndegeocello covered it in the ’90s, introducing it to a new generation. Still, the original version remains unmatched in its urgency and swagger. “Wild Night” showcases Morrison’s ability to channel chaos and joy into a tightly crafted anthem. It’s less about narrative and more about vibe—a musical snapshot of spontaneity. Whether blasting from a jukebox or echoing through city streets, it’s a song that makes you want to move, to explore, to live wildly.
6. “Tupelo Honey” (1971)
“Tupelo Honey,” the gentle centerpiece of Van Morrison’s 1971 album of the same name, is one of his most heartfelt tributes to love. Inspired by his then-wife Janet Planet, the song is a slow-burning ode to a partner who brings sweetness, stability, and grace into his life. With its mellow piano, lilting rhythm, and warm guitar lines, the track exudes a kind of soft-spoken devotion. The line “She’s as sweet as Tupelo honey” compares his love to the rare Southern delicacy, symbolizing something pure, rich, and enduring. Musically, it bridges folk, country, and soul, moving at an unhurried pace that allows every lyric to breathe. Unlike the upbeat romp of “Wild Night,” which opens the album, “Tupelo Honey” is contemplative and romantic—a moment of stillness in a chaotic world. The extended outro, with its soulful instrumentation, adds to the song’s dreamy atmosphere. Over time, it has become a favorite for weddings and anniversaries, not because it’s showy or grand, but because it feels real. “Tupelo Honey” is love stripped of drama—just quiet admiration and deep emotional resonance. It remains a timeless ballad that celebrates the everyday miracles found in committed love.
7. “Gloria” (1964)
“Gloria” is the song that lit the match on Van Morrison’s career and ignited garage rock in the process. First recorded in 1964 with his band Them, Morrison wrote the track at just 18 years old—but it pulses with raw, rebellious energy that belies his age. Built on a basic three-chord structure, “Gloria” proves that sometimes less really is more. The repetitive, driving rhythm paired with Morrison’s gritty delivery transforms the song into an anthem of teenage lust and rock ‘n’ roll attitude. The simple chorus—spelling out “G-L-O-R-I-A”—turns the name into a chant, a symbol of youthful desire and defiance. “Gloria” became a staple of live shows and one of the most covered songs in rock history, famously reimagined by Patti Smith, The Doors, and The Shadows of Knight. Though it was released in the mid-‘60s, it still feels fresh and urgent today, capturing that teenage spark like lightning in a bottle. It’s a song that inspired generations of garage bands and continues to resonate with fans for its primal, unfiltered sound. With “Gloria,” Morrison created more than just a hit—he created a rock ‘n’ roll rite of passage.
8. “And It Stoned Me” (1970)
Opening the Moondance album, “And It Stoned Me” is a lush and lyrical piece of musical storytelling that taps into childhood memory and spiritual awe. Written from the perspective of a young boy on a simple fishing trip in Northern Ireland, the song draws from Morrison’s real-life experiences but transforms them into something almost mythic. With lines like “Half a mile from the county fair” and “they let me fill my water bottle,” he turns mundane moments into rites of passage. The phrase “stoned me,” despite what it might suggest, refers to being overwhelmed by the beauty of the moment—not drug use. Musically, the track flows like a gentle river, with acoustic guitar, soulful horns, and Morrison’s voice weaving it all together. There’s a reverence in the performance—a gospel-like delivery that elevates everyday life into something sacred. It’s a powerful example of Morrison’s ability to blur the line between the physical and the spiritual. “And It Stoned Me” doesn’t just tell a story—it captures a feeling: that moment when nature, youth, and grace collide. It remains one of Morrison’s most poignant works, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt transformed by something small and beautiful.
9. “Caravan” (1970)
“Caravan,” from Van Morrison’s 1970 Moondance album, is a jubilant celebration of music’s unifying power and nomadic spirit. With its upbeat tempo, swinging rhythm, and Morrison’s exuberant vocals, the song invites listeners to join a musical parade that never stops moving. “Turn up your radio,” he sings, a rallying cry to embrace the communal joy of song. The lyrics paint pictures of gypsies and caravans, suggesting a life lived on the move, where music is both compass and companion. The track builds slowly, layering instruments—especially the horns and guitar—until it reaches a rousing crescendo. But what truly immortalized “Caravan” was Morrison’s electrifying performance in The Last Waltz, the legendary concert film by The Band. Clad in a purple jumpsuit, Morrison delivered a passionate, leg-kicking rendition that remains iconic. That moment crystallized “Caravan” not just as a great song, but as a live masterpiece. It’s more than just a track—it’s an embodiment of Morrison’s musical philosophy: that rhythm and melody can carry us through life’s journey. “Caravan” is vibrant, alive, and bursting with the kind of joy that can only come from a deep, abiding love of music.
10. “Crazy Love” (1970)
“Crazy Love,” from Van Morrison’s Moondance album, is the quiet heartbeat of an album full of standout tracks. At just under three minutes, this tender ballad doesn’t need grand gestures or sweeping production to make its point. With delicate acoustic guitar, subtle backing vocals, and Morrison’s warm, intimate delivery, the song feels like a whispered promise. “She gives me love, love, love, love, crazy love”—that simple refrain becomes a mantra, encapsulating the profound steadiness and serenity that come from true companionship. The arrangement is sparse but purposeful, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to shine. There’s a vulnerability in Morrison’s voice that gives the song its depth, making it feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. Over the years, “Crazy Love” has been covered by artists ranging from Ray Charles to Michael Bublé, but none have captured the gentle sincerity of the original. It’s a song that doesn’t shout—it soothes. In a catalog known for its spiritual wanderings and soulful outbursts, “Crazy Love” is a rare moment of stillness, a musical exhale. It’s Morrison at his most emotionally transparent, offering listeners not just a love song, but a genuine piece of his heart.
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.
