Eyes are often considered the windows to the soul, and many songwriters have used them as a metaphor for various emotions and experiences. From romantic love songs to songs about deception and betrayal, the theme of eyes has been explored in countless ways throughout music history.
In this list of the top 20 songs about eyes, we’ll take a journey through some of the most iconic and memorable tunes that feature this ubiquitous symbol. Whether it’s the soulful melodies of Billie Holiday’s “God Bless the Child” or the upbeat pop sounds of Kim Carnes’ “Bette Davis Eyes,” each of these songs tells a unique story that captures the power and allure of the human eye.
So, get ready to experience a wide range of emotions and musical styles as we explore the many ways in which eyes have inspired some of the greatest songs of all time.
1. “Brown Eyed Girl” By Van Morrison
“Brown Eyed Girl” is a classic rock song by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. It was released in 1967 as a single and later featured on his album “Blowin’ Your Mind!”. The song has become one of Morrison’s signature hits and a timeless classic in the genre of rock and roll.
The song features a catchy melody with a lively rhythm and upbeat tempo that perfectly captures the joyful and carefree spirit of youth. The lyrics are a nostalgic reflection on a romantic relationship with a brown-eyed girl and the fond memories of their time together. The chorus, which repeats the phrase “My brown-eyed girl” is instantly recognizable and has become a staple of classic rock radio.
Aside from its catchy melody and lyrics, “Brown Eyed Girl” is also notable for its use of instruments such as the saxophone and flute, which add a jazzy and soulful element to the song. The song’s popularity has endured for decades, with its appeal spanning generations and cultures. It has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and commercials. “Brown Eyed Girl” has become a beloved classic and a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll music.
2. “Behind Blue Eyes” By The Who
“Behind Blue Eyes” by The Who is a classic rock ballad that was released in 1971. The song features the powerful vocals of lead singer Roger Daltrey and the haunting guitar melodies of Pete Townshend. The lyrics express the struggles of the song’s protagonist, who is often misunderstood and judged by others. The song is a perfect representation of the band’s signature sound, which is characterized by powerful vocals, intricate guitar work, and memorable lyrics.
The song begins with a soft acoustic guitar intro before launching into a powerful rock riff. The lyrics describe the inner turmoil of the protagonist, who feels misunderstood and alienated from those around him. The chorus of the song features the iconic lyrics “No one knows what it’s like to be the bad man, to be the sad man behind blue eyes,” which has become a classic rock anthem. The song’s powerful guitar solos and emotional lyrics have made it a favorite among rock fans, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
“Behind Blue Eyes” is a powerful testament to the power of rock music to express complex emotions and connect with audiences on a deep level. The song’s themes of alienation and misunderstood emotions are universal, and the song remains a beloved classic in the rock canon.
3. “These Eyes” By The Guess Who
“These Eyes” is a classic rock ballad by Canadian rock band The Guess Who. Released in 1969, the song features soaring vocals and a memorable piano riff, making it an instant hit and a staple of classic rock radio. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of heartbreak and the inability to hide it from the world, with lines like “These eyes, cry every night for you” and “Guess I’ll never be the same”. The song was written by band members Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings and was a departure from the band’s earlier harder rock sound.
Despite being released over 50 years ago, “These Eyes” remains a beloved classic and has been covered by numerous artists. The song has also been featured in several films and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture. In 2005, The Guess Who was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, with “These Eyes” cited as one of their most important contributions to rock music. The song’s timeless quality and relatable lyrics have made it a favorite of fans old and new, ensuring its place as a classic rock anthem for generations to come.
4. “Eye Of The Tiger” By Survivor
“Eye of the Tiger” is a song by the American rock band Survivor, released in 1982 as the theme song for the movie “Rocky III”. The song was written by the band members, Jim Peterik and Frankie Sullivan, and is known for its iconic opening guitar riff and powerful lyrics. The song’s lyrics revolve around themes of determination, courage, and overcoming obstacles, making it a popular motivational anthem and workout song.
The song’s opening guitar riff, played by Sullivan, is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most iconic riffs in rock history. The song’s powerful chorus, sung by lead vocalist Dave Bickler, adds to the song’s intensity and energy, making it a perfect fit for the climactic scenes of “Rocky III”. The song’s popularity helped it reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and become one of the band’s most well-known songs.
“Eye of the Tiger” has since been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, and has been covered by various artists. The song’s themes of perseverance and determination have made it a popular choice for motivational speeches, sports events, and workout playlists. Overall, “Eye of the Tiger” has cemented its place in pop culture as a timeless classic and a symbol of strength and perseverance.
5. “In Your Eyes” By Peter Gabriel
“In Your Eyes” is a classic love song by English musician Peter Gabriel. Released in 1986 as the second single from his album “So”, the song features a distinctive melody, with Gabriel’s distinctive vocals accompanied by bright synths, soulful guitar riffs, and a lively rhythm section. The song is widely regarded as one of Gabriel’s greatest hits and one of the best love songs of the 1980s.
The lyrics of the song are a romantic expression of the singer’s deep affection for his beloved. Gabriel croons lines like “I see the doorway to a thousand churches in your eyes,” and “All my instincts, they return / The grand façade, so soon will burn / Without a noise, without my pride / I reach out from the inside.” The song’s chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “In your eyes,” adds to its emotional impact.
“In Your Eyes” has been featured in several films, including the iconic “Say Anything”, where the song was played during the film’s climactic scene. It has also been covered by several other artists, including Sara Bareilles and Jeffrey Gaines. With its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, “In Your Eyes” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Gabriel’s skills as a songwriter and performer.
6. “In Your Eyes” By The Weeknd
“In Your Eyes” is a groovy and energetic track from The Weeknd’s fourth studio album, “After Hours.” The song is about a tumultuous relationship that has ended, but the singer still desires to be with his former partner. He reminisces about the times they spent together, and he is unable to forget her.
The song is characterized by its catchy beat and powerful vocals from The Weeknd. The chorus, which is repeated throughout the song, is especially memorable with its bold proclamation of love and desire: “In your eyes, I see there’s something burning inside you / Oh, inside you / In your eyes, I know it hurts to smile, but you try to.” The Weeknd’s voice is soulful and emotional, which conveys the raw emotions of the song’s lyrics. The song also features a saxophone solo, which adds a jazzy and upbeat element to the track.
Overall, “In Your Eyes” is a memorable and well-crafted song that showcases The Weeknd’s vocal talent and ability to create catchy pop hits.
7. “Eyes Without A Face” By Billy Idol
“Eyes Without A Face” is a song by British rock musician Billy Idol. The song was released in 1984 as the second single from his album “Rebel Yell”. It is a mid-tempo ballad that features a haunting melody and a memorable chorus. The lyrics of the song explore themes of love, obsession, and loneliness. Idol’s vocal performance is emotive and powerful, conveying a sense of vulnerability and desperation that perfectly matches the song’s mood.
One of the most distinctive elements of the song is the use of a harmonica solo in the bridge, which adds a unique touch to the track’s overall sound. The music video for the song was also a major success, featuring Idol as a mad scientist performing surgery on a woman’s face, with surreal and creepy imagery that perfectly complemented the song’s dark and moody tone.
“Eyes Without A Face” remains one of Billy Idol’s most popular songs, and has been covered and sampled by other artists over the years. Its haunting melody, memorable chorus, and emotionally charged lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic of 1980s pop music.
8. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” By Frankie Valli
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” is a classic song that has been covered by numerous artists since its original release in 1967. The song was written by Bob Crewe and Bob Gaudio, and it became a hit for Frankie Valli, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless love song that is still beloved today.
The song starts off with a gentle piano melody that is soon joined by a grooving bassline and upbeat percussion. Frankie Valli’s smooth vocals then enter, singing about how he can’t take his eyes off of his lover. The chorus is where the song really shines, with Valli’s powerful falsetto delivering the iconic lines, “I love you, baby, and if it’s quite all right, I need you, baby, to warm a lonely night.”
The song has been covered by a wide range of artists, including Lauryn Hill, Muse, and Gloria Gaynor. It has also been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including “10 Things I Hate About You” and “The Deer Hunter.” The song’s enduring popularity and ability to resonate with listeners is a testament to its status as a classic love song.
9. “Ocean Eyes” By Billie Eilish
“Ocean Eyes” is a hauntingly beautiful song written by Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas. It was originally released on SoundCloud in 2015, and later re-released in 2016 as Eilish’s debut single. The song quickly gained popularity on the internet, and its unique blend of dreamy pop and electronic elements made it stand out from the crowd.
Eilish’s soft, breathy vocals perfectly match the song’s introspective and emotional lyrics, as she sings about falling in love and feeling vulnerable. The lyrics also paint vivid imagery of the ocean, describing it as a place of both beauty and danger. The production of the song is minimalistic yet highly effective, with a simple piano melody and sparse electronic beats that enhance the ethereal quality of the track.
“Ocean Eyes” helped launch Billie Eilish’s career and set the stage for her unique sound and style that would later dominate the charts. Its hauntingly beautiful melody and relatable lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans all over the world.
10. “Hungry Eyes” By Eric Carmen
“Hungry Eyes” is a romantic power ballad by American singer-songwriter Eric Carmen, released in 1987. The song is known for its memorable chorus and emotional lyrics that express the desire and longing of a lover who can’t resist the charms of their beloved. The song was featured in the classic 1987 film Dirty Dancing, and has since become a fan-favorite, often associated with the movie’s iconic dance scenes.
Carmen’s distinctive voice and expert use of dynamic shifts bring the song to life, making it a classic of its time. The song’s sensual, passionate lyrics are complimented by the soaring melody and rich instrumentation, with a combination of guitar and synthesizer that gives the song a unique and unforgettable sound.
The song is a testament to Carmen’s songwriting abilities, and has become a staple of romantic ballads of the era. It continues to be popular to this day, with its emotional lyrics and powerful melody resonating with listeners across generations. Whether it’s on the radio or in a movie, the song remains a timeless classic that captures the essence of love and desire.
11. “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” By Crystal Gayle
“Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” is a classic country-pop song by Crystal Gayle that became a massive hit in 1977. The song was written by Richard Leigh, who was inspired by his breakup with his girlfriend. The melody, lyrics, and Gayle’s emotional delivery are a perfect combination, making it a timeless classic. The song’s instrumentation features a gentle guitar strum and a beautiful string arrangement that emphasizes the song’s melancholic feeling. Gayle’s pure, clear voice is a standout feature, conveying the sadness and heartbreak of the lyrics in a deeply affecting way.
The lyrics describe the narrator’s heartbreak as her lover has left her, and how she is trying to move on from the relationship. She realizes that even though she’s moving on, she cannot change the color of her eyes, a poignant metaphor for the unchanging love she still has for her ex-lover. The song’s emotional depth and relatable lyrics have resonated with listeners for decades. It has been covered by various artists over the years, but none have been able to match Gayle’s original version. The song’s popularity has made it a country music classic and a mainstay on the radio and in karaoke bars. It is a testament to Gayle’s vocal abilities and the songwriting talents of Leigh, making it an unforgettable and timeless hit.
12. “Pale Blue Eyes” By The Velvet Underground
“Pale Blue Eyes” is a classic song by American rock band The Velvet Underground. Released in 1969, the song was included on their third album, “The Velvet Underground”. Written by Lou Reed, the song is a slow, melancholic ballad that features Reed’s distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics.
The song is notable for its simplicity and emotional depth. It features a simple acoustic guitar and piano arrangement, with occasional subtle backing vocals. Reed’s lyrics describe a love affair with a woman who has pale blue eyes, but also acknowledges the pain and sadness that comes with it. The song has been interpreted as a reflection on Reed’s own personal life and relationships.
“Pale Blue Eyes” has become a beloved classic and has been covered by numerous artists, including R.E.M., Hole, and Alejandro Escovedo. The song’s understated beauty and emotional honesty have cemented its place in rock music history as one of the greatest songs of all time.
13. “Behind These Hazel Eyes” By Kelly Clarkson
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a power pop song by American singer Kelly Clarkson, released in 2005 as the second single from her second studio album “Breakaway”. The song’s lyrics focus on the aftermath of a failed romantic relationship, as the narrator sings about the emotional turmoil and pain she experiences after being betrayed by her partner. The title refers to the hazel eyes of the ex-lover, who is no longer seen in the same light as before.
The song features a catchy melody, driving guitars, and Clarkson’s powerful vocals that capture the raw emotions of the lyrics. The chorus, which is particularly memorable, expresses the narrator’s longing to move on from the past and reclaim her life, but the memories of the relationship keep haunting her. The bridge of the song features a particularly intense moment, where the instrumentation drops out, and Clarkson sings with raw emotion, “You fall asleep during foreplay, ’cause the pills you take are more your forte.”
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The song’s relatable lyrics and Clarkson’s vocal performance have made it a fan favorite and a staple in her live performances.
14. “My Eyes Have Seen You” By The Doors
“My Eyes Have Seen You” is a psychedelic rock song by The Doors, released on their 1967 album “Strange Days”. The song features a driving drumbeat and a prominent bassline, which provide the foundation for Jim Morrison’s intense and enigmatic vocals. The lyrics, like many of Morrison’s works, are somewhat cryptic, with references to hallucinations and altered states of consciousness.
The song starts off with a simple guitar riff, which is joined by a pulsating bassline and drums, creating a hypnotic and trance-like atmosphere. Morrison’s voice enters with a haunting melody, evoking a sense of otherworldliness. The chorus features a call-and-response between Morrison and the rest of the band, with the repeated phrase “my eyes have seen you” building to a climax.
The song showcases The Doors’ signature sound, with its mix of rock, blues, and psychedelic elements. The band’s unique approach to songwriting and performance, as well as Morrison’s distinctive voice and lyrics, helped to make them one of the most influential and enduring bands of the 1960s. “My Eyes Have Seen You” remains a classic example of The Doors’ music, and a testament to their lasting impact on rock music.
15. “Green Eyes” By Coldplay
“Green Eyes” is a heartfelt and melancholic song by the British band Coldplay, released in 2002 as part of their critically acclaimed album “A Rush of Blood to the Head”. The song is a stripped-down ballad that showcases lead singer Chris Martin’s vulnerable and tender vocal performance. The simple and delicate acoustic guitar chords are complemented by soft piano and understated percussion, creating a dreamy and intimate atmosphere.
The lyrics of the song are a love letter to a girl with green eyes, whom Martin calls his “honey”. He expresses his devotion and admiration for her, singing about the moments they shared and how he can’t get her out of his head. However, there is also a sense of longing and sadness, as Martin confesses to being afraid of losing her and not being enough for her.
“Green Eyes” is a departure from Coldplay’s more anthemic and bombastic sound, showcasing a more intimate and personal side of the band. The song’s gentle and reflective mood makes it a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances. Overall, “Green Eyes” is a beautiful and poignant love song that captures the bittersweet nature of love and longing.
16. “Bette Davis Eyes” By Kim Carnes
“Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes is a classic pop hit from the early 80s that still resonates today. The song is famous for its catchy melody, infectious beat, and clever lyrics that celebrate the iconic Hollywood actress Bette Davis. The song’s opening lyrics set the tone for the rest of the track, with Kim Carnes singing “Her hair is Harlow gold, her lips sweet surprise, her hands are never cold, she’s got Bette Davis eyes.”
The song’s arrangement is built around a driving rhythm guitar riff and a pulsing synthesizer bassline, giving it an energetic and danceable feel. Kim Carnes’ vocal performance is confident and sultry, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song’s subject matter. The chorus is an instantly recognizable earworm, with the repeated phrase “She’s got Bette Davis eyes” becoming a cultural touchstone.
“Bette Davis Eyes” was a massive commercial success upon its release, topping the charts in multiple countries and winning a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1982. The song’s appeal has endured over the years, with its distinctive sound and catchy lyrics becoming synonymous with the era in which it was released.
17. “Lyin’ Eyes” By The Eagles
“Lyin’ Eyes” is a classic country rock song by the Eagles that was released in 1975. The song is about a woman who is stuck in a loveless marriage but cannot bring herself to leave her wealthy husband due to her love for the lifestyle it affords her. The song features a distinctive twangy guitar riff and harmonies that showcase the band’s signature sound. The lyrics are poignant and thoughtful, conveying the complex emotions of the woman as she grapples with her inner conflict.
The song is one of the Eagles’ most popular and enduring hits, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1976. The success of the song can be attributed to its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and the impeccable musicianship of the Eagles.
“Lyin’ Eyes” has become a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to speak to listeners who have experienced the pain of being trapped in a loveless relationship or struggling with the decision to stay or leave.
18. “Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain” By Willie Nelson
“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” is a classic country song written and originally recorded by Fred Rose in 1945. However, it was Willie Nelson’s 1975 rendition that made the song famous and has become the definitive version. The song tells the story of lost love and heartache as the narrator reflects on a past relationship with a woman who had blue eyes, and how the memory still haunts him. The mournful melody, combined with Nelson’s distinctive vocals, make for a powerful emotional impact that has resonated with listeners for generations.
The song’s simple yet effective lyrics and melody have made it a staple of the country music canon and a beloved classic. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison, and has become a standard of the genre. In 1980, Willie Nelson won a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for his version of the song, solidifying its place in music history. “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” continues to be a popular choice for country music fans and is a testament to the enduring power of a great song.
19. “Sad-Eyed Lady Of The Lowlands” By Bob Dylan
“Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands” is a long, sprawling song by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. The song was released in 1966 as the closing track on his album, “Blonde on Blonde.” Clocking in at over eleven minutes, the song is an epic masterpiece that showcases Dylan’s poetic storytelling skills and his ability to create vivid imagery through his lyrics. The song is a tribute to his then-wife, Sara Lownds, and features some of the most romantic and enigmatic lyrics of Dylan’s career. The song starts with a gentle acoustic guitar and piano, gradually building up to a powerful crescendo with the addition of drums, bass, and organ.
The lyrics of the song are complex and deeply personal, with Dylan using allegory and metaphor to describe his love for Sara. The song is divided into five verses, with each one depicting different aspects of their relationship. Dylan’s vocals on the song are filled with emotion, and his delivery is filled with passion and tenderness. “Sad-Eyed Lady of the Lowlands” is widely regarded as one of Dylan’s greatest songs, and its impact on popular music cannot be overstated. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Joan Baez, Judy Collins, and Elvis Costello.
20. “Eyes Open” by Taylor Swift
“Eyes Open” is a powerful and emotional song by Taylor Swift, released in 2012 as part of the soundtrack for the movie “The Hunger Games”. The song was written by Swift and co-produced with Nathan Chapman, and features her signature country-pop sound with a dark and intense twist.
The lyrics of “Eyes Open” focus on the themes of survival and self-preservation, as Swift sings about being cautious and aware of the dangers and challenges that surround her. She urges the listener to keep their eyes open and stay vigilant, even when faced with difficult situations and uncertain futures.
The melody is haunting and memorable, with a driving beat and intense guitar riffs that build to a powerful and emotional chorus. Swift’s vocals are strong and expressive, conveying a sense of urgency and determination as she sings about facing the world head-on and refusing to give up.
Overall, “Eyes Open” is a powerful and inspiring song that showcases Taylor Swift’s ability to create music that is both catchy and deeply emotional. Its message of resilience and self-preservation resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless classic in the world of pop music.
Simon Robinson 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.
